This is according to VFS Global, the world’s largest visa outsourcing and technology service specialist for government, with the group reporting a significant increase in visa applications from South Africa over the last six months.
With most countries accepting visa applications up to 90 days before the date of travel, applicants need to apply for their visas way in advance, especially during this period when outbound travel demand is increasing. According to the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective 02 February 2020, you can apply for a Schengen visa up to six months before your date of travel.
Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date. Keeping such requirements in mind, VFS Global has listed a series of common queries so that applicants can beat the peak and travel with ease.Please be advised that the visa processing timelines vary country-wise. For the understanding of our applicants, the respective country-specific websites provide the information required to apply for your visa well in advance.
The status will be updated as soon as your passport is ready for collection/delivery. Please note that we cannot track your application during the assessment process within an Embassy or Consulate.No, we do not provide advice or guidance on visa category or any other visa requirement that the applicants may need nor do we comment on vaccine requirements. All travellers are requested to check the destination/transit country guidelines for the same.