VFS Global, a leading outsourcing specialist for governments, has opened a centre for processing Visa applications to Italy in Kuwait.

Launched Embassy of Italy in Kuwait, the centre aims to bring greater proficiency of visa application processing services and enhanced customer experience to the residents of Kuwait. Services at the new centre are operational from November 26.

Travellers to Italy from Kuwait can visit the centre, managed by professionally trained VFS Global staff, to submit their Italy visa applications and enrol their biometrics in a comfortable and secure environment.

The new centre, which is centrally located at Level 54, Arraya Tower, Al Shuhada Street, was inaugurated by Giuseppe Scognamiglio, Ambassador of the Embassy of Italy to the State of Kuwait, at a recent official ceremony.

At the centre, amongst other services provided for greater convenience to applicants, is the option to submit their applications in the comfort of a Premium Lounge for a more personalised experience. In addition to efficient visa application processing services, applicants will also have access to a dedicated tourism space, which will offer tourism information on a range of hand-picked tours in Italy.

Scognamiglio said, “I am very pleased to officially launch the new Italy Visa Application Centre in Kuwait City, which we are confident will provide the highest international standards of service and assistance, further enhancing and perfecting the quality of the current visa application process. Moreover, the new Italy Visa Application Centre will be a remarkable open window to our wonderful country, offering comprehensive touristic information and tailored counselling. We hope more and more Kuwaitis visit and enjoy our country.”

Vinay Malhotra, COO – Middle East & South Asia, VFS Global, said, “We are privileged to extend our services on behalf of our longstanding client, the Government of Italy, to bring enhanced visa application processing services to the residents of the State of Kuwait. The launch of this centre serves the needs of the ever-expanding travel trade between Kuwait and Italy and we are confident it will deliver services that exceed the expectations of our client and provide applicants with highest levels of service efficiency.”

Kuwait is the fifth country in the Middle East from where VFS Global will serve the Embassy of Italy. Worldwide, VFS Global has served the Government of Italy since 2004, and currently manages visa processing operations for the client government in 28 countries from 66 visa application centres.

The key features of the centre include:

•    Convenient and central location
•    Professional staff with local language capability to handle queries and applications
•    Automated queue governance for smooth flow of applicants
•    Dedicated website for easy access to information including visa categories, requirements, document check-list, applicable fees and appointment bookings
•    Secure handling of passports, documents and personal information
•    Door-step delivery of passports
•    Premium Lounge for personalised and comfortable service – TradeArabia News Service