Biometrics appointment now required for applicants in Indonesia

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Applicants in Indonesia applying for visas to Saudi Arabia are now required to book an appointment with the VFS Tasheel visa application center to submit their application in person and provide biometrics.

What does the change mean? Applicants should expect delays in the new process as there is currently only one VFS center in Jakarta that is able to complete biometrics.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: All visas, including commercial visit visas.
• Business impact: Visa appointments and overall processing may be delayed during the transition.

Background: VFS Tasheel last month announced the opening of 10 application centers to service visa applicants, including biometrics enrollment. Under the new procedures, applicants must book an appointment at a VFS center online or in person and appear at the appointment with their supporting documents. Biometrics (fingerprints, digital photo and biographical information) will be taken and the application will be submitted for processing. Applicants may track the status of their application on the VFS website and sign up for other services such as automatic updates via SMS and courier delivery. Biometrics are valid for six months.

Analysis & Comments: Saudi Arabia is introducing biometrics at all VFS Tasheel locations, including Singapore, Egypt, Netherlands, and the United Arab Emirates, among other countries. Applicants in Indonesia should plan for possible delays as the new procedure is rolled out and until more VFS centers are capable of taking biometrics.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.