VFS Tasheer: Saudi Visa Through Visa Application Centers

Introduction

Gone are the days when planning an international trip meant waiting in line at an embassy or consulate to apply for a visit visa. With the advent of technology, there are other easier, faster, and more convenient ways of applying for a visa. With Saudi Arabia, in particular, travelers can apply for a visa through VFS Tasheer centers. These are outsourcing and technology service specialists for governments and diplomatic missions around the world.

If you’re new to this option, what’s the process like? What do you need to submit? Here’s how to apply for a Saudi visa via VFS Tasheer.

The VFS Tasheer

We’ve mentioned that one of the ways to apply for a Saudi visa these days is through VFS Tasheer centers. But what exactly are they and what do they do?

VFS, which stands for “visa facilitation services”, helps governments and diplomatic missions. It’s the largest visa outsourcing and technology specialist in the world. Specifically, they assist in the administrative tasks related to visa, passport, and consular services. Moreover, they help in the collection of visa applicants’ documents and requirements. This is so that embassies and consulates can focus on assessing applications and approving or rejecting them.

Keeping this in mind, Saudi Arabia has made it easier for travelers to apply for a Saudi visit visa. If you’re from one of the countries that are eligible for a Saudi e-visa or a Saudi visa on arrival; a permanent resident of the US, the UK, or the EU; have a valid US, UK, or Schengen visit visa; or a citizen of a GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) country; then you don’t need to go through a VFS Tasheer. But if not, VFS Tasheer centers are your next best option, in case the Saudi embassy or consulate in your location refers you to them.

Application

Now that we know what VFS Tasheer centers do, you can go through the process when you plan your trip to Saudi Arabia. Here are the steps to take:

Booking an appointment

1. Visit vfsglobal.com. Select which country or region you’re applying from and “Saudi Arabia” as the country you’re going to. Click “Take me to the website” once it’s generated. You’ll be redirected to https://vc.tasheer.com/. Select your country and language in the dropdown options.
2. A menu will appear on the website, with the following sections: a) Schedule an appointment, b) visa fees, c) Visa centers, and d) Track status. Click “Schedule an appointment.” You may see an advertisement about a visa-at-your-doorstep service (if available in your country), which is optional and something you may want to consider.
3. Select your nationality. Choose your visa category. For this article, let’s go with “Tourism.” The website will generate the earliest available appointment date, along with the VFS Tasheer branch location.
4. Next, accept the terms and conditions. You’ll see a refreshed version of the “Schedule an appointment” page. Select “Tourism” as your visa category, and “Individual” under who your visa application is for. Note that to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes, you will need a personal invitation from a friend or family member in the country. You’ll be asked to provide an invitation or letter or pre-approval number, along with your sponsor’s ID number or Iqama (residence permit) number. This refers to a form that your host should have filled up on the website of the Saudi MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
5. Next, indicate details about your sponsor, such as his/her name, gender, marital status, nationality, religion, occupation, qualification, source of your degree, contact number, and e-mail address. You’ll also need to indicate your port of entry, transport mode, and the number of entries into the country. Click “Next.”
6. On the next page, provide your personal information, the same as on the sponsor info page. You’ll also be asked to indicate your passport information, such as your passport number, type of passport, place, and date of its issuance, expiry date, as well as your place and date of birth. Once done, click “Next.”
7. You can now select the appointment date. You may be asked to choose between “Normal” or “Lounge” options. “Normal” refers to a regular queue while for “Lounge,” the waiting lines are shorter. Click “Next.”
8. Choose your appointment time slot. Click “Next.” Review your information before clicking “Confirm & Book.” You should see a pop-up window confirming the successful scheduling of your appointment. Print out a copy of your appointment letter. You should also receive an e-mail from the VFS Tasheer confirming your appointment schedule.

Submitting requirements at a VFS Center

Before your appointment, make sure you compile all the necessary documents needed for your Saudi tourist visa application. These typically include:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining by the time of your trip,
• A completed visa application form,
• Passport-sized photos,
• Proof of your travel arrangements, such as flight tickets and hotel reservations,
• Proof you have sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses (ex: bank statement),
• Travel Insurance

When you enter the VFS Tasheer, you will need to surrender your bag (if you have one) as bags are not allowed inside. You may bring inside, however, a transparent folder, pouch, or envelope. Switch off your gadgets such as your mobile phone.

A VFS staff member will ask for your appointment letter and passport while you wait. Once your name is called, approach the designated counter and submit your documents. You may be asked questions such as the name of your sponsor, your relationship with him/her, or when you are flying to Saudi Arabia.

The visa processing agent will ask if you would like to have your passport and visa delivered to your doorstep (at an additional fee) or if you would rather pick them up. If you choose the delivery option, you’ll need to provide your shipping details.

Pay for the visa application fees. Note that the fees will vary per VFS and depending on the location, payment modes may vary. Some VFS Tasheer may only accept cash, while others may also accept international debit or credit cards.

Getting your biometrics taken

Next, proceed to the biometrics area and present the receipt of your payment to personnel. Wait for your name to be called.

Once it’s your turn, VFS will take your photo and scan your fingerprints. You’ll be asked to remove earrings, eyeglasses, and other accessories for them to take a clear photo of your face.

When you’re done, return to the same visa processing agent. You’ll receive a claim stub or invoice for when you pick up or receive your passport and visa.

Tracking the status of your VFS application

Once you submit your application, you can track its progress under the VFS website’s online tracking service. Simply input your appointment reference number or the visa platform number (available on your claim stub, invoice, or receipt) and your date of birth to see the status. It will reflect updates once your passport is ready for pick-up or delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Although the visa application process at a VFS Tasheer is straightforward, it may still be confusing, especially for first-time applicants. Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions.

How long is the processing time for a Saudi visit visa?

Depending on your location and the volume of VFS customers, it may take a few business days to a few weeks to process your visa application. Note that the processing time may be longer if the VFS Tasheer asks you for additional supporting documents or information.

Can you apply for a Saudi visa at a VFS Tasheer without an appointment?

There are certain countries where the VFS allows services to walk-in applicants who do not have an appointment. If this is not the case for the country where you are applying, you’ll need to book an appointment.

Can you cancel or reschedule your VFS appointment?

Yes, you may. The terms may vary per VFS Tasheer, but generally, you may cancel and reschedule your appointment within a certain timeframe. For some VFS Tasheer, you may reschedule your appointment under an upgraded appointment category.

Do VFS Tasheers allow children in their centers?

Yes, children under the age of 18 years old can enter VFS Tasheers as long as they are the accompanying children of the applicant. They must be accompanied by an adult such as the applicant or a caregiver in the application center.

How do you know if authorities have approved your Saudi visa?

You’ll know if authorities have approved your visa once they deliver your passport. Also if you arrange for its delivery and it comes with a visa stamp.

How do you know if the Saudi visa has been denied?

On the flip side, you’ll know if authorities have denied your visa once they deliver your passport. Also if you’ve arranged for a delivery and it does not include a visa stamp.

What does VFS not allow?

Due to security reasons, the VFS application center does not allow battery-operated gadgets such as cameras, audio and video recording devices, laptops, or music players.

What should you wear during your VFS appointment?

Female applicants should not wear sleeveless or revealing tops, skirts, or open-toed footwear such as sandals, slippers, or heels. Male applicants, on the other hand, should not wear sleeveless tops, slippers, or open-toed footwear.

What is the average waiting time at the VFS?

The waiting time will vary depending on the VFS location and the volume of visa applicants. It is best to have a meal or a snack before going through the application process as the waiting time is uncertain.

Conclusion

If it’s your first time traveling to Saudi Arabia, you can check if you are among those eligible to apply for a Saudi e-visa or a Saudi visa on arrival. These are the easiest ways to visit the country.

If you are not eligible, the VFS Tasheer, or authorized visa outsourcing and technology specialists, can collect your documents, biometrics, and visa application details for forwarding to the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.

It is best to review the process and requirements thoroughly before booking an appointment, to avoid any inconveniences or delays. Should your documents be complete and in order, you should receive your passport in no time.

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