Portuguese Consulates in Brazil Blame VFS Global for Visa Delays, Company Denies Claims

The Portuguese consulates in Brazil have put the blame on the outsourcing company, VFS Global, for the visa delays that Brazilians have been facing.

However, VFS Global has denied such claims, saying that the company stands by ethical standards and assures accuracy, Schengen.News reports. 

Earlier this week, on January 22, a number of Brazilians protested outside Portuguese consulates in Belo Horizonte, Rio, Salvador, and São Paulo to express their dissatisfaction with the long processing times. 

On the same day, as Publico explains, one of the protesters named Evelyn was received by the Portuguese Consul General in São Paulo, Ambassador António Pedro Rodrigues da Silva. 

During their conversation, according to Evelyn, Silva highlighted that VFS Global has been making a series of mistakes during the visa processes, such as delivering incorrect documents to the consulates, leading to delays. 

Moreover, Publico notes that according to Evelyn, Silva also said that VFS Global’s electronic system is outdated and that they do not have enough employees to meet the demand, blaming the company for the delays that Brazilians have been encountering. 

These comments come not long after it was said that, in some cases, the visa processing time for Brazilians reaches up to 200 days. 

Nationals of Brazil are permitted visa-free entry to Portugal for short stays. However, they need to obtain a visa to be eligible to remain within the territory of Portugal for longer periods of time, whether that is for work, study, or other reasons.

VFS Global Defends Its Standards, Citing Ethical Practices & Accuracy 
In response to the claims, a VFS Global spokesperson said for Schengen.News that the company has rigorous processes that are regularly updated to ensure accuracy and efficiency. 

The VFS spokesperson further noted that they are actively integrating new technologies and embracing AI to meet the needs of the clients.

At the same time, the spokesperson said that VFS Global prioritises ethical practices and sustainability and reaffirmed that they remain dedicated to supporting applicants as well as Portuguese embassies and consulates in ensuring a seamless visa application process.

Following such a statement from the outsourcing company, it is yet to be seen if the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs will comment on the matter and address the visa delays that nationals of Brazil have been encountering for a while now.

Source: https://schengen.news/portuguese-consulates-in-brazil-blame-vfs-global-for-visa-delays-company-denies-claims/