VFS Global urges Ghanaian visa applicants to use official channels amid rising demand for group travel services

VFS Global has urged visa applicants in Ghana to rely strictly on official channels and avoid intermediaries who promise early appointments or guaranteed visa approvals, as demand for international travel and group visa services continues to rise.

The advisory comes amid a steady increase in visa application volumes, particularly during peak travel periods involving students, families, corporate travellers, sports teams and organised delegations. The company says the surge in demand has also created opportunities for fraudulent agents to exploit applicants with false claims.

Applicants have therefore been encouraged to plan ahead, use only verified platforms, and avoid third parties who claim to influence appointment scheduling or visa decisions.

Speaking on the issue, Mr Prashant Kansara, Regional Head for Central and West Africa at VFS Global, emphasised that trust and transparency remain central to the visa application process.

He said VFS Global’s role is to support client governments by providing a secure and efficient administrative system, while ensuring applicants are protected from fraud and misinformation.

“We strongly encourage residents in Ghana to use only official VFS Global channels, avoid intermediaries who make false promises, and plan their applications well in advance,” he said. “No agent or third party can guarantee earlier appointments, faster processing or a visa outcome.”

The company noted that fraudulent actors often misuse its name, logo and online presence to mislead applicants. It advised the public to verify all information exclusively through its official website, www.vfsglobal.com, and to report suspicious activities through approved contact channels.

As part of its safeguards in Ghana, VFS Global said it has introduced several anti fraud and verification measures, including appointment confirmation systems, OTP based booking, validation of application references, controlled access to visa centres and continuous applicant awareness messaging.

Applicants were also reminded to arrive on time for scheduled appointments and ensure they carry all required documentation, as incomplete submissions can lead to delays.

Beyond fraud prevention, VFS Global said it is also seeing increased demand for group visa submission services, particularly among students, education agents, corporate organisations, sports delegations and large family groups.

The group service is designed to help coordinate multiple applications within the same timeframe, especially during peak travel seasons. However, the company stressed that the service does not influence visa outcomes, appointment availability or processing times, which remain solely under the control of respective embassies and governments.