THE Embassy of Sweden in Abu Dhabi has outsourced its visa application process to VFS Global. People who want to apply for Schengen visas to Sweden can now do this at two new centres managed by VFS Global – one in Abu Dhabi and one in Dubai. While VFS Global will accept visa applications, the Embassy will continue to make the assessment and decisions regarding all visas. The new visa application centres are located at Wafi Mall, Level 2 in Dubai and Shining Tower, Level 25, in Abu Dhabi.
Ambassador Jan Thesleff said, “I am delighted to be able to offer a substantially increased service-level for Sweden visa applicants. VFS Global has presence both in Abu Dhabi and in Dubai and as visa applicants – as from today – can turn to them to apply, we are getting closer to our customers and hopefully also shortening handling times. VFS Global handles applications for Sweden visa applicants in many places around the world and I am confident that doing so in the UAE will further increase our exchange with this important country.” Ajit Alexander, COO Middle East and Africa, VFS Global commented, “It is an honour and our privilege to support the initiative of the Embassy of Sweden in Abu Dhabi to provide better service and shorten the handling time for Schengen visa applications. This launch of Sweden visa application process in Dubai will offer a convenient visa application submission experience to the residents in the country. We are committed to delivering a professional and high-quality service to all applicants and travel agents in the UAE. VFS Global started operations for the Government of Sweden in 2008, and now serves the client in 23 countries from 58 Visa Application Centres globally.”The centre in Dubai will accept applications for visas to Sweden from applicants and travel agents residing in the UAE. The service would attract a service fee, payable at the centre at the time of submitting applications. The centre will remain open from 9am to 5pm for enhanced convenience to applicants and travel agents. The key features of the centre facility include:• Priority facilitation for disabled, senior applicants and pregnant women• Premium Lounge for comfortable and personalised service• Professional and responsive staff with local language capability dedicated to handle visa queries and applications• Automated queue governance for smooth flow of applicants, providing better crowd management • Dedicated website for easy access to information including visa categories, requirements, check-list and applicable fees • Dedicated call centres and email support to answer queries and status of application• 100 per cent secure handling of passports, documents and personal information• SMS alerts for visa status update • Door-step delivery of passports• Dedicated visa enquiry desks in English and Arabic.