Visa application service provider VFS Global has expanded its footprint in Lagos with the opening of a new Joint Visa Application Centre in Lekki, aimed at improving access for Nigerians applying to travel abroad.

The new facility, located at Purple Mall in Lekki, is designed to complement the company’s existing centre in Ikeja by offering an additional application point for residents and businesses on Lagos Island and nearby communities.

The expansion comes amid growing demand for international travel from Nigeria. VFS Global said the move is intended to enhance convenience for applicants while maintaining that visa decisions remain solely the responsibility of foreign embassies and consulates.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the company’s Regional Head for Central and West Africa, Prashant Kansara, said the Lekki centre was established to improve accessibility without compromising operational efficiency and security standards required by partner governments.

He noted that VFS Global continues to invest in technology and customer experience as demand for visa application services increases across the region.

Also speaking, the company’s Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East and Africa, Siddharth Mehra, reiterated that VFS Global does not influence visa outcomes.

According to him, the organisation operates strictly as an administrative partner to governments, handling document collection, biometric enrolment, and the transfer of completed applications to relevant diplomatic missions for assessment.

“Visa decisions are made solely by embassies and consulates. Our responsibility is to provide secure, efficient and transparent administrative services throughout the application process,” Mehra said.

He further clarified that premium and other value-added services offered at VFS Global centres are optional and do not affect the outcome of visa applications.

The company added that applicants who choose not to purchase any optional services will undergo the same application process as others.

VFS Global currently manages visa application centres for multiple governments in Nigeria, providing front-end administrative support while diplomatic missions retain authority over approvals and refusals.

The Lekki centre is expected to ease travel time for many applicants and offer greater flexibility in accessing visa application services within Lagos.