VFS Global, a leading outsourcing and technology services specialist, has unveiled the Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC) services in Dubai for applicants wishing to travel to Canada, as part of a contract awarded by the Government of Canada.
Under the deal, VFS Global will establish a worldwide network of up to 125 CVACs, said the statement.
This centre is the second such centre in the UAE. Canada Visa Application Services have also been introduced in Oman earlier in March, it said.
The global network of CVACs will provide increased access and enhanced administrative services to applicants through a consistent service delivery approach, which will also support biometrics implementation.
Emmanuel Kamarianakis, Canada’s Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, said: “This new Visa Application Centre in Dubai will offer another service option to travellers in the UAE, in addition to our VAC in Abu Dhabi.
“Canada’s partnership with VFS Global complements the excellent visa services already offered nationally online through e-applications.”
Ajit Alexander, chief operating officer, VFS Global, said: “It is our privilege to extend our network of services to the Government of Canada in UAE. With the Canada Visa Application Centre in Dubai we work towards making the process convenient and accessible. VFS Global is committed to delivering a world class service and customer experience”.
The CVAC will provide exclusive service for the Government of Canada, and is authorised to accept applications in all temporary resident categories (visitor visas, study and work permits) and travel document applications from Canadian permanent residents in UAE, said the statement.
It is authorised to provide administrative support services, such as the collection of visa applications, and return of passports in sealed decision envelopes to applicants.
The CVAC can also assist in scheduling interviews on behalf of the Canadian visa office.
The decision to issue or refuse a visa is made solely by immigration officers of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), in accordance with Canada’s immigration visa rules and guidelines. The CVAC has no role or influence over the outcome of an application and will not offer any evaluative advice, said the statement.
The use of CVACs is voluntary. Such service may also be obtained directly from CIC, by using CIC’s Online Application (E-Apps) system, it added. - TradeArabia News Service
Travel, Tourism & Hospitality
VFS opens new Canada Visa Application Centre in Dubai
