VFS Global awarded global contract to process visas to Slovakia

Under the contract, VFS Global will provide visa services across 83 countries, including India, operating visa application centres in 159 cities.

 The five-year contract, awarded by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia Republic, covers both short stay (C) visas—for visits up to 90 days within Slovakia or the Schengen area for tourism, business, or family travel—and long stay (D) visas issued for stays exceeding 90 days, typically for work or study.

 This includes opening 87 new visa application centres in 41 countries in January 2026, with an additional 72 centres in 42 countries expected to open over the course of the contract.

 The opening of the centres will help meet traveller demand, with Slovakia experiencing a steady increase in international visitors. The country recorded more than 2.16 million visitors in the year to December 2024, a 3.9% increase on the previous year. 

The highest demand for visa applications over the contract term is expected from India, Turkey, Uzbekistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates, together accounting for approximately 70 % of the total projected volume. Slovakia’s appeal as a destination is fuelled by its cultural heritage, mountain and spa tourism, and opportunities for longer stays, including work and education. The expanded network of VFS Global centres will help meet the growing demand, providing applicants with greater accessibility, convenience, and efficiency. 

Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Business Development, VFS Global, said, “We are delighted to resume our partnership with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic. With growing international travel to Slovakia, our expanded network of centres will make the application process more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly.”