Attention those planning travel abroad: Warning on visa application fraud
VFS Global, an outsourcing and technology services provider, has warned applicants against fraud, noting an increase in individuals and organizations demanding fees with the promise of accelerating the visa approval process. The company stated that one should be cautious against such false promises and act carefully to avoid victimization.
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In a statement reminding that decisions regarding visa applications and processing times are determined solely by the relevant government authorities, VFS Global Head of Turkey, Russia and the Baltics, Nishant Bhatia, said: 'We are seeing an increase in the number of individuals and organizations committing fraud through fake online platforms that imitate companies. In this method of fraud, applicants are often offered expedited appointments in exchange for a fee. My call to visa applicants: Please be aware and careful; the outcome and processing time of your visa application depend entirely on the decision of the relevant governments. Stay away from scammers who claim they will speed up your visa application approvals.'
It was emphasized that intermediary service providers in visa application processes are only responsible for preliminary administrative tasks. The information provided stated that these organizations only collect application forms and documents according to the checklist determined by the relevant embassy or consulate, take biometric data when necessary, and deliver passports securely to applicants after the decision-making process is completed. It was stated that these intermediary institutions have no authority or role in the evaluation, approval, or rejection of visa applications, and that these decisions belong entirely to the relevant embassies or consulates.
In the travel guide the company created for Turkish citizens, the following points were highlighted:
APPLY EARLY
In the guide, where it is recommended to make visa applications when flight and accommodation reservations are made, it was stated that most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (3 months) before the travel date.
According to the updated Schengen Visa Code, which entered into force as of February 9, 2020, it was stated in the guide that Schengen visa applications can be made up to 6 months before travel, and it was recommended that applicants make their visa applications at the earliest possible date, especially due to the increased demand and limited appointment availability this year.
DO NOT FALL FOR FRAUD
In the statement, a warning was issued that visa applicants should be careful against fake individuals and organizations that demand fees under the pretext of scheduling appointments or offering various services.
In order to prevent fraud attempts, it was stated that no fee is charged for appointment procedures made through the official website. Furthermore, it was emphasized that this system should only be used by real applicants and that it is intended to prevent misuse by fraudulent individuals or entities.