What happens at the centre

What happens at the Visa Application Centre

Only applicants, caregivers and those accompanying children under 18 years are permitted to enter the Visa Application Centre.
Bring a printed copy of your visa application, as well as a valid passport or travel document with at least 2 pages that are blank on both sides.
Bring all supporting documentation (originals and copies)
At the centre, you will also need to submit your fingerprints and photograph. This is known as biometric information collection. A digital finger scanner collects images of all 10 digits, and you will have a digital photo taken. The digital fingerprint scanner uses no inks, liquids or chemicals and will not mark your skin.
Ensure your fingertips are free from any forms of decoration such as mehndi, cuts, abrasions or other markings as these may affect your ability to provide acceptable finger scans.
Children under 18 years old need to be accompanied by an adult and this cannot be a member of VFS Global staff.

Without biometrics information, your visa application will not be processed.
Your fingerprint scan and live photo / facial scan will be captured.
A digital fingerprint scanner will collect images of all 10 fingers, and at the same time a digital photo will be captured. This is a quick, discreet and non-intrusive process.
Your digital photograph must show your full face. You cannot wear sunglasses, tinted spectacles, or a head covering unless it is worn for religious or ethical reasons.
If you have temporary injuries on your fingers, you’re advised to wait until your injuries have healed.
Ensure your fingertips are free from any forms of temporary body decoration like mehndi as it interferes with the working of the scanner.
If you have applied for a Schengen Visa in the last 59 month, you will not need to submit biometric data as you will have already done so.
Applicants who are under 12 do not need to submit full biometric data, but will need to have a facial scan.
Citizens who hold diplomatic passports and heads of state do not require a visa and will not need to submit biometric data.
For an applicant between the ages of 12 and 17, a parent or legal guardian will be asked to give consent and be present when fingerprints are collected.

You will be exempted from the obligation of biometric data (fingerprints) if:

You are under 12 year of age.
The collection of fingerprints is physically impossible for you. If you are unable to provide a fingerprint scan, you’ll have to provide a medical certificate to support their claim.
You are Head of State and member of the national Governments (with your official delegations and spouses) and are travelling for official purposes.