VFS Global reveals insider tips for submitting visas on time during Peak Season without being scammed, warning travelers to beware of impersonators and not to relax just after booking tickets.
As the cold winds start to blow or the long holiday season approaches, our traveler instincts kick in. But hold on—before you dream about strolling through Europe or sipping coffee in Melbourne, there’s an important hurdle to clear first: the visa.
Recently, VFS Global, a world leader in visa application services, issued a warning to Thai travelers: "Don’t wait until the last minute." With the upcoming Peak Season, queues can stretch long, and the risk of encountering scammers rises accordingly.
The 180-Day Rule: Applying Early Is Advantageous. Simon Peachey, an executive at VFS Global, offers a simple tip: "The earlier, the better." Many may not know that popular destinations, especially in the Schengen area, allow visa applications up to six months (180 days) in advance. So once your travel plans and flight tickets are set, immediately book your appointment. Allowing extra time helps reduce stress and prevents delays due to documentation issues.
The key is not to fall for shortcuts that don’t exist. Rushing often leads to poor judgment, and scammers exploit this by offering shortcuts—claiming to "know insiders," "skip the queue," or "guarantee 100% visa approval." Remember, free appointment slots are not for sale. All bookings must be made through www.vfsglobal.com only. Anyone selling appointments or requesting payments to private accounts is a scammer. VFS Global only accepts documents and coordinates the process; it does not have the authority to approve visas. Anyone guaranteeing results is misleading you.
Options for Comfort Seekers (Optional). If you don’t want to take time off work or deal with traffic, VFS offers additional paid services tailored for modern travelers. For example, the "Visa At Your Doorstep" service lets you stay home while staff collect your documents and biometric data. The Premium Lounge is another attractive option. There are also visa submission services outside normal hours or on Saturdays, so you don’t have to miss work.
Currently, VFS centers in Thailand—in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket—handle applications for over 26 countries. Good preparation and getting information from official channels will help keep your dream trip on track. For accurate information and to protect your wallet, check the official website.