VFS Global urges Chinese travelers to plan visas early

VFS Global urged visa applicants to plan early, use official channels, protect personal information and watch for scams as peak travel season approaches.

Simon Peachey, chief operating officer for China, Australasia and RCIS at VFS Global, speaks at a press event in Beijing, April 14, 2026. [Photo/China.org.cn]

Visa peak season runs from March to September, with volumes and processing times both climbing from April onward, according to company data. At a press event in Beijing on April 14, the company advised applicants to prepare documents thoroughly and apply well in advance of travel dates.

Simon Peachey, chief operating officer for China, Australasia and RCIS at VFS Global, said traveler expectations for visa experiences are shifting as more Chinese tourists travel abroad.

"Different traveler groups are now bringing distinct expectations to the application process that reflect a clear trend toward more personalized and differentiated service demands," said Peachey.

He said VFS Global continues to respond to these needs through new service processes and improved visa experiences.

"We remain committed to meeting the expectations of every applicant," said Peachey. "With the peak season approaching, we urge travelers to submit their visa applications as early as possible, safeguard their personal information and stay alert to visa scams."

Most destination countries accept visa submissions 90 to 180 days prior to travel, with Schengen countries permitting applications up to six months in advance, the company said.

VFS Global said it tailors services to different traveler groups, offering privacy and customized options for business and luxury travelers and child-friendly environments at visa centers for families.

Visa applications from China grew steadily in the first quarter of 2026, according to company data. Top destinations remain Canada, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States, driven by study, family visits and business. Schengen applications rose 20% year on year.

Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou lead in application volumes, while Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Wuhan and Xi'an are emerging as growth hubs, the company said. Chengdu and Hangzhou saw increases exceeding 30%. Demand for premium visa services is also rising, with premium lounge applicants up 11% year on year.

VFS Global warned that peak season also brings higher risks of visa scams. Appointments booked through official websites are free, and claims of "paid expedited processing," "internal channels" or "guaranteed approval" are fraudulent, the company said. Visa decisions rest solely with embassies and consulates; VFS Global handles only administrative tasks.

The company said data protection and information security are central to its operations. VFS Global serves as a partner to 70 client governments across 167 countries and complies with local data protection laws and privacy frameworks.