Forged documents submitted to VFS Global for obtaining Visa. Eight persons, including a travel agent arrested by Delhi Police
Two alert security personnel at the VFS Global visa application centre (VAC) in Delhi nabbed a group of seven applicants carrying forged documents to apply for Schengen visas. VFS Global is the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions.
The incident took place at the Delhi centre on 24 May 2023. The visa appointment letters produced by the applicants, while entering the facility, raised suspicion in the mind of the security personnel and on cross-checking with the applicants manifest the documents were found to be forged. The crude forgery was glaring and visible as documents carried by two persons had the same passport number. Subsequent investigations revealed that the forged letters were created by misusing the VFS Global logo and allegedly procured from two travel agents. A Delhi-based agent Surinder Sharma running Sharma Travels, has been arrested in the matter. The police is on the lookout for another Jaipur-based travel agent Shiv Shanker. Both these agents used to charge Rs 30,000 to Rs 55,000 to prepare the forged documents.
In line with VFS Global’s zero-tolerance policy against visa frauds, a police complaint was filed against at the IGI Airport Metro police station in Delhi, who took prompt action in arresting the fraudsters. Further investigation is in progress.
“This incident reiterates the need to be wary of grey operators selling fake appointments and take informed decisions. VFS Global has been consistently leveraging all its customer touchpoints to caution visa applicants about this menace. Appointments are free and available online on a first-come-first-serve basis. Given the unprecedented pent-up demand for outbound travel from India, it is advisable to apply for visas as early as possible to avoid falling prey to such grey operator,” said Mr. Prabuddha Sen, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global.
He added that the company would continue to be vigilant against third-party fraudulent entities taking advantage of travellers and work closely with the police authorities in mitigating the menace.
The company has advised Visa applicants to beware of fraudulent entities, who charge fees from customers for scheduling appointments or providing any other services using VFS Global’s name or independently. It has reiterated that they do not charge any payment for scheduling appointments and to contact their official helpline numbers or send an email to communications@vfsglobal.com for any assistance. In view of heavy demand for Visas, it has recommended to apply for visas as early as booking flights and stay. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (3 months) before your date of travel. According to the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective 09th February 2020, one can apply for a Schengen visa up to 6 months before the date of travel. Particularly this year with higher demand and limited appointment slots available, applicants have been advised to apply for their visa as early as possible and permissible.