Bhubaneswar: In a move set to significantly improve international travel access from eastern India, VFS Global has launched a new Visa Application Centre in Bhubaneswar, reducing the need for travellers from Odisha to travel to Kolkata for visa processing.
The centre, inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi along with senior VFS Global officials and diplomatic representatives, marks the company’s second visa application facility in eastern India, highlighting the region’s growing outbound travel demand.
With this launch, residents of Odisha and neighbouring areas will benefit from greater convenience, reduced travel time and improved accessibility to visa services—an important step in strengthening regional mobility infrastructure.
In its initial phase, the centre will process visa applications for multiple destinations including the UK, Ireland, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Japan and Egypt, among others, with plans to onboard additional countries in the near future.
Industry observers note that improved visa accessibility plays a critical role in boosting outbound travel as well as supporting business mobility, education travel and international tourism linkages.
Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia at VFS Global, said the initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing ease of travel and supporting economic connectivity. He highlighted that as Odisha expands its global engagement, such infrastructure will be key in linking the region to international opportunities.
Spread across 3,000 sq. ft., the new centre is equipped with modern amenities designed to offer a seamless and efficient application experience. Strategically located in Bhubaneswar, it is easily accessible via public and private transport.
VFS Global currently operates visa services for 53 countries across India, with a network of over 560 centres in 20 cities, reflecting the growing demand for international travel services across the country.
The Bhubaneswar launch underscores a broader shift towards decentralising visa services, making international travel more accessible beyond metro cities.
