Surge in Overseas Travel by Indians Exceeds Pre-Pandemic Numbers
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Synopsis
The number of Indians traveling internationally is on the rise, with visa applications increasing by 11% in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels from 2019. Popular destinations include Canada, the US, and the UK, with VFS Global emphasizing the need for early applications.
Key Takeaways
- Indian overseas travel is up by 11% in 2024.
- Visa applications exceed 2019 levels by 4%.
- Popular destinations include Canada, China, and the US.
- VFS Global warns against fake sites and offers VAYD.
- Early visa applications are encouraged to avoid delays.
New Delhi, March 4 (NationPress) The trend of Indian citizens traveling abroad remains robust, as indicated by a year-on-year increase of 11 percent in visa applications for 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic figures from 2019 by 4 percent, based on data gathered by VFS Global.
Some of the most sought-after destinations for Indian travelers in 2024 include Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer - South Asia at VFS Global, stated, "India's strong appetite for international travel is apparent, and we anticipate this momentum continuing into 2025."
Talwar emphasized the importance of avoiding fraudulent websites and deceptive social media accounts posing as VFS Global.
"Appointments are complimentary and can only be secured through www.vfsglobal.com on a first-come, first-served basis. We are actively working to increase awareness about this matter and encourage travelers to plan ahead," Talwar added.
The demand for customized visa services remains high, with VFS Global reporting a substantial increase in interest for its Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) service. This premium offering enables applicants to complete their visa procedures, including biometric enrollment, from a location of their choice.
In 2024, bookings for VAYD in India saw an incredible increase of over six times compared to 2019 and a 21 percent rise from 2023.
VFS Global assists individuals in applying for visas, passports, and other related services while collaborating with governments and diplomatic entities to handle administrative functions.
"We advise applicants to submit their visa requests well in advance to prevent last-minute chaos and secure a seamless travel experience," Talwar remarked.
Given the heightened demand and the limited availability of appointment slots, applicants are recommended to file their visa applications as early as possible. Most countries permit visa applications up to 90 days (three months) prior to travel. The updated Schengen Visa Code, which came into effect on February 9, 2020, allows for applications up to six months ahead of departure.
