VFS Global has issued a vital advisory to Ghanaian nationals. The company is urging applicants to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to fraudulent individuals and intermediaries who exploit the high demand by falsely promising expedited appointment bookings in exchange for payment.
According to a recent report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), published in collaboration with VFS Global, Africa’s travel and tourism sector is projected to significantly boost the continent’s economy by US$168 billion and create over 18 million new jobs.
This growth, however, is heavily reliant on supportive policies such as improved air infrastructure, streamlined visa processes, and effective tourism marketing.
It is within this context of rising travel interest that scammers are increasingly posing as VFS Global employees or representatives, as well as unauthorised agents.
These fraudsters lure unsuspecting visa applicants with false promises of early appointment slots for additional fees, ultimately aiming to defraud them.
Ms. Cleopatra Avenorgbo, DGM-Operations at VFS Global, emphasised the importance of direct and official channels.
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“It is important for applicants to bear in mind that appointment slots are offered online based on the volume of demand or forecast and in conjunction with the Consulate’s internal capacity planning,” she stated.
She added a practical tip: “Once scheduled, they are recommended to be at the Centre 15 minutes before the appointed time to avoid missing your slot.”
VFS Global explicitly advises all applicants to “be careful of touts and fraudulent parties who falsely promise early appointment bookings in exchange for payment“.
The advisory highlights that many fraudsters create fake online presences using company logos and official names, incorporating their own contact details to deceive genuine travellers.
To combat these illicit activities, VFS Global has implemented several security measures. These include mandating that only applicants with a valid appointment are permitted entry into their Visa Application Centres in Accra and Kumasi.
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Other preventative measures include a visa application form validation system that integrates the form reference number with appointment booking, and an OTP (One-Time Password) code requirement for booking appointments to limit agent intervention.
The company also disseminates anti-fraud messages across social media platforms, on appointment letters, in call centre voice messages, and on advertisements/posters. Applicants are urged to report any suspected fraud by emailing details to acco@vfsglobal.com.
Recognising the higher-than-expected waiting times for application processing due to increased outbound travel demand, VFS Global has also implemented measures to improve service.
These include extended hours of operations, additional appointment slots, dedicated hours for passport submission and pick-up, and expanded waiting areas for applicants requiring services at the Centre.
