VFS Global to Launch Visa Application Centre in Bhubaneswar on April 1
In a significant development for Odisha, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced on Saturday via social media platform X that VFS Global will open and operate a new visa application centre in Bhubaneswar. The centre is set to commence operations on April 1, coinciding with Utkal Dibas, a day marking the foundation of the state.
Background and Official Confirmation
The initiative follows a formal request made by Pradhan on September 2 last year to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, urging the establishment of such a facility to support Odisha's youth pursuing higher education and business opportunities abroad. Pradhan also engaged in discussions with VFS Global's group founder and CEO, Zubin Karkaria, to advance the proposal.
Karkaria confirmed the company's decision in a letter to Pradhan on Friday, solidifying plans for the centre. This move addresses a long-standing need, as applicants from Odisha previously had to travel to cities like Kolkata for visa-related procedures, incurring additional time and expenses.
Services and Initial Operations
According to official sources, the centre will initially process visa applications for the United Kingdom and select other countries. More destinations will be incorporated based on evolving demand, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to local needs.
In addition to core visa processing, VFS Global will offer comprehensive visa concierge services. These services are designed to assist applicants with form filling, document guidance, travel insurance, and other support mechanisms. Karkaria emphasized that this approach aims to make the application process more efficient, convenient, and seamless, particularly benefiting first-time travellers, students, and families.
Economic and Social Impact
The establishment of the visa centre is expected to generate significant employment opportunities for local youth in Bhubaneswar. VFS Global has committed to training and deploying these individuals, thereby fostering skill development and job creation within the community.
Pradhan welcomed the decision, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jaishankar, and VFS Global. He highlighted that the centre will not only reduce travel burdens for Odisha residents but also strengthen the state's international connectivity. By localizing visa services, it promises to save time and costs while contributing to economic growth through new job avenues.
Inauguration and Future Commitments
VFS Global has extended an invitation to Pradhan to attend the inauguration of the centre in Bhubaneswar. In his letter, Karkaria reiterated the company's dedication to delivering world-class, secure, and efficient visa facilitation services in Odisha, seeking continued guidance from stakeholders.
This initiative marks a pivotal step in enhancing access to global opportunities for Odisha's populace, aligning with broader efforts to boost education and business prospects abroad. The centre's launch on Utkal Dibas adds symbolic significance, celebrating progress and development in the region.
