VFS Global to Handle Slovakia Visas from 83 Countries, Including India Starting 2026

Slovakia is making it easier for travellers from around the world to visit, and there’s big news for Indian passport holders. VFS Global, the world’s biggest visa application service, has just landed a five-year contract to handle Slovak visas from 83 countries, including India.

Earlier, Slovakia visa applications in most countries were handled by BLS International, another visa outsourcing company that had won the contract in December 2023.

If you’re planning a trip to Slovakia, this is a change you’ll want to know about.

What’s Changing for Slovak Visa Applicants?

In a major expansion to offer more convenient locations for travellers to submit their applications. VFS Global will open 87 new visa application centres in 41 countries starting from January 2026.

• VFS Global will open 159 new visa-application centres globally.
• A further 72 centres will launch across 42 additional countries during the contract period.

The Slovak Republic recorded over 2.16 million international visitors in the year to December 2024, a 3.9% rise.

The biggest surge in visa applications is expected from the following countries, together accounting for about 70% of the volume.

• India
• Turkey
• Uzbekistan
• China
• Kazakhstan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Nepal
• Azerbaijan
• Indonesia
• UAE

Which Countries Are Getting New Centres?

The complete list of the 41 countries hasn’t been shared in official press releases. VFS Global operates worldwide, and the new centres will be located in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Indian applicants will have more local choices, which will make the process faster and easier.

What Services Will VFS Global Offer?

When you visit any VFS Global centres, the application process for a Slovakia visa is designed to be simpler and more comfortable. Whether you choose the standard service or opt for some additional services, here’s what you can expect:

• Basic services:
  • Collecting visa application forms
  • Checking all required documents
  • Taking fingerprints and photos (biometrics)
• Optional premium services:
  • Help with document verification
  • Translation assistance for your paperwork
  • Courier delivery to get your passport back
  • Access to a Premium Lounge for a smoother experience

These extras are completely optional and only meant to add convenience. They won’t speed up the process or influence the visa decision, which is always made by the Slovak Embassy or authorised Schengen officials.

Why Is This Important for Indian Travellers?

Slovakia is becoming more popular with Indian tourists. In 2024, the country welcomed over 2.16 million international visitors, a 3.9% increase from the previous year.

Indian travellers are expected to make up a big chunk of visa applications, so these new centres will help meet demand and cut down on long waits.

What Should You Know Before Applying?

• VFS Global only handles administrative work. Visa decisions are made by the Slovak authorities.
• The new centres will open in January 2026, so keep an eye out for local updates.
• Premium services are optional and won’t affect your application’s chances.

The Bigger Picture

VFS Global already works with 69 governments and runs nearly 4,000 centres in 165 countries. Since 2001, it has handled over 500 million visa applications. Its new deal with Slovakia shows how travel services are expanding to meet rising demand, especially from countries like India.

For travellers, this simply means an easier and more accessible way to apply for a Slovak visa, making that next European trip a little smoother to plan.