Portuguese Consulates in Brazil Attribute Visa Delays to VFS Global; Company Refutes Allegations
Key Takeaways
- Portuguese consulates in Brazil have held VFS Global responsible for ongoing visa delays.
- The company has been accused of using outdated systems and making processing errors.
- VFS Global denies these allegations, emphasizing its commitment to accuracy, ethical standards, and regular system updates.
Portuguese consulates in Brazil have attributed the visa delays affecting Brazilian nationals to the outsourcing company VFS Global. However, VFS Global has refuted these claims, asserting its commitment to ethical practices and operational accuracy.
Earlier this week, on January 22, protests erupted outside Portuguese consulates in Belo Horizonte, Rio, Salvador, and São Paulo, with Brazilian nationals voicing frustration over extended processing times.
According to Publico, protester Evelyn met with the Portuguese Consul General in São Paulo, Ambassador António Pedro Rodrigues da Silva, who reportedly blamed VFS Global for numerous errors in the visa application process. Evelyn stated that Silva accused the company of submitting incorrect documents to consulates and using an outdated electronic system, as well as being understaffed to meet the current demand.
These accusations follow reports that visa processing for Brazilians can take up to 200 days in some instances. While Brazilian nationals can enter Portugal visa-free for short stays, visas are required for extended stays, whether for work, study, or other reasons.
VFS Global Defends Its Standards
In response to the allegations, a VFS Global spokesperson told Schengen.News that the company maintains rigorous processes that are audited and updated regularly to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
“As a digitally driven organization, we stay at the forefront of innovation, integrating new technologies and AI to meet client needs,” the spokesperson said, emphasizing the company’s dedication to ethical practices and sustainability.
The spokesperson also invited applicants facing specific challenges to contact VFS Global directly for support, reaffirming the company’s commitment to assisting Portuguese consulates and applicants in ensuring a seamless visa application process.
It remains to be seen whether Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will address the matter and take further steps to resolve the ongoing delays impacting Brazilian nationals.