The first half of 2024 marked a significant milestone in outbound travel from India, with visa application volumes exceeding pre-pandemic levels. According to VFS Global, which manages Visa Applications for 51 countries from India, Visa Applications in H1 2024 surpassed those of the same period in 2019 by 2% and showed a year-on-year growth of 11% compared to H1 2023. This resurgence in travel is a testament to the robust pent-up demand among Indian travelers, signaling a full recovery and further growth in international travel.
The Rise in Personalized Visa Services
One of the most notable trends observed during this period was the increased demand for personalized visa services. VFS Global reported a substantial rise in the use of its premium Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) service, which allows applicants to complete the entire visa application process, including biometric enrollment, from the comfort of their homes or any preferred location. VAYD bookings saw a remarkable five-fold increase compared to 2019 and a 16% year-on-year growth over H1 2023.
This shift towards tailored services reflects a broader trend in post-pandemic travel behaviors, where convenience and health considerations have taken center stage. Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer for South Asia at VFS Global, emphasized that the growing preference for services like VAYD highlights the importance of comfort and security in today’s travel landscape. VFS Global currently offers VAYD services for 16 countries in India, including popular destinations such as Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and the UK.
Pre-Pandemic Levels Surpassed
The recovery of the travel industry has been gradual but steady, and H1 2024 marked the first time that visa application volumes in India surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The demand for outbound travel has been consistent, driven by a desire to explore new destinations and reconnect with the world after years of restrictions. Popular destinations for Indian travelers in 2024 included Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, the USA, and the UK.
As the travel industry rebounds, VFS Global has been at the forefront of facilitating smooth and efficient visa application processes. The organization operates over 560 visa application centers across 19 cities in India, serving as a trusted partner to 52 sovereign governments. While VFS Global manages the administrative aspects of visa applications, the decision to grant or deny a visa remains with the respective governments.
Caution Against Fraudulent Activities
With the surge in demand for visas, there has also been an increase in fraudulent activities, particularly through counterfeit websites and fake social media pages posing as VFS Global. Yummi Talwar urged applicants to be cautious and only use the official VFS Global website for booking appointments, which are offered free of charge. She emphasized the importance of applying for visas well in advance to avoid last-minute stress and to secure appointments amid high demand.
Value-Added Services for a Seamless Experience
To further enhance the visa application experience, VFS Global offers several optional value-added services. These include the Premium Lounge, where applicants can enjoy a personalized visa submission experience, Prime Time services that allow visa submissions outside regular working hours, and form-filling assistance for those needing help completing their applications. Other services include courier delivery of passports and documents, travel medical insurance, and SMS alerts to keep applicants updated on their visa status.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, the trends observed in H1 2024 indicate a strong and sustained recovery for outbound travel from India. VFS Global remains committed to providing exceptional service through innovative and secure solutions, ensuring that Indian travelers can explore the world with confidence and ease.
