ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — As international travel demand surges ahead of the peak holiday season, VFS Global has issued a strong warning to Indonesian travelers to remain vigilant against visa-related fraud, which tends to rise sharply during periods of high application volumes.
Speaking at an event in Jakarta on January 20, 2026, the global outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions emphasized that last-minute visa applications not only increase the risk of travel delays, but also leave applicants more vulnerable to scams exploiting urgency and misinformation.
“We strongly encourage travelers to apply for their visas as early as possible. Last-minute applications often create opportunities for fraudsters who promise fast-track services or guaranteed outcomes,” said Simon Peachey, Chief Operating Officer – Australasia, China, and RCIS, VFS Global.
Visa Appointments Are Free and Available Only Through Official Channels
Peachey reaffirmed that visa appointment bookings are free of charge and can only be made through official platforms, including www.vfsglobal.com or the relevant embassy and consulate websites.
He stressed that VFS Global does not work with external agents or third parties, nor does it have any influence over visa decisions.
“No individual or organization can guarantee a visa. All visa decisions are made solely by the respective embassies or consulates,” he said.
Six Key Warnings for Visa Applicants
As a trusted partner to 24 foreign governments in Indonesia, VFS Global reminded applicants nationwide to take note of the following critical points:
First, applicants are advised to submit visa applications as early as possible, ideally after booking flights and accommodation. Most countries accept visa applications up to 180 days (six months) prior to departure. Under the Schengen Visa Code, in effect since February 9, 2020, Schengen visas may also be applied for up to six months in advance.
Second, visa appointment registration through VFS Global is free of charge. Appointments must be booked directly via the official VFS Global website or government portals. VFS Global does not sell appointment slots or offer priority access.
Third, VFS Global does not collaborate with any third-party entities in allocating or managing visa appointments. Any claims of affiliation should be treated with caution.
Fourth, neither VFS Global staff nor any third party can influence visa decisions, including approval, refusal, validity, or processing timelines. These decisions rest entirely with embassies and consulates.
Fifth, VFS Global does not provide overseas employment or immigration placement services. Any job or migration offers made in the company’s name are a clear indication of fraud.
Sixth, VFS Global never requests personal information or advance payments via social media, email, SMS, or phone calls. All payments are made exclusively through official websites or at authorized Visa Application Centres (VACs).
Report Suspicious Activity Immediately
Applicants who are approached by individuals offering paid visa appointments or claiming special access are urged to report the incident immediately through VFS Global’s official ethics and compliance reporting channels. Victims of visa or immigration fraud are also advised to report the matter to local law enforcement authorities.
VFS Global further encourages travelers to consult its dedicated anti-fraud resources to better understand common scam tactics and protect themselves and their families.
Extensive Network Across Indonesia
VFS Global currently serves 24 foreign government missions in Indonesia, including those of Austria, Canada, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, and Saudi Arabia, through a network of 45 Visa Application Centres located in Bali, Jakarta, Makassar, Medan, and Surabaya.
The company is also an official partner of Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration for e-VoA services.
To enhance applicant convenience and efficiency, VFS Global offers a range of optional services, including Visa At Your Doorstep, Premium Lounge, Premium Application Centre, Mobile Visa Application Centre (MVAC), Keep My Passport When Applying, Prime Time, and Courier Service. (AT Network)
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