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Application-centre operators compared

BLS International vs VFS Global: which visa service fits your trip? (2026)

An independent, side-by-side look at BLS International and VFS Global using facts from the VisaScout catalogue. Prices and processing times are sample figures, last updated 1 Aug 2026 — confirm the live numbers on each provider's own site.

BLS International logo
BLS International

Visa and consular outsourcing partner

VFS Global logo
VFS Global

Outsourced visa application centres for governments

Side-by-side facts

Fees & times are sample data
BLS International compared with VFS Global
FactBLS InternationalVFS Global
Provider typeOfficial partnerOfficial partner
HeadquartersNew Delhi, IndiaDubai, United Arab Emirates
Founded20052001
Destinations (approx.)~120~140
Passports servedMost passportsMost passports
Visa typesTourist, Business, Student, WorkTourist, Business, Student, Work
Service fee from (sample)₹2,320₹2,660
Avg. processing (sample)12 days12 days
Express optionNoYes
SupportCentre helplines and email, business hoursCentre helplines, email and self-service tracking
RefundsCentre fees are non-refundable once documents are lodged.Centre service fees are non-refundable once an appointment is attended.
Listing checkDoneDone
VisaScout score (computed)4.14.4

Who each one suits

Choose BLS International if you want…

  • a lower sample starting service fee

Authorised submission centres for multiple missions

Full BLS International profile

Choose VFS Global if you want…

  • wider destination reach (~140 vs ~120)
  • an express option

Authorised application centres for many governments

Full VFS Global profile

Sample tourist-visa totals for Indian passports

Sample

Illustrative totals generated from catalogue facts, not quotes. Government fees change — check the official portal.

DestinationBLS InternationalVFS Global
UAE₹4,5705–12 days₹4,5706–13 days
Thailand₹5,8106–13 days₹5,4004–10 days
Singapore₹4,1504–10 days₹5,4004–10 days
Vietnam₹6,2305–11 days₹6,6404–10 days
Indonesia₹4,9805–12 days₹5,8106–14 days
Malaysia₹4,1506–13 days₹5,4004–9 days

Destinations both cover — official-source guides

You may not need either

Many destinations let you apply yourself on an official government portal, with no service fee. Check the destination guides for the official links, and use the document checklist to prepare.

Frequently asked questions

Is BLS International or VFS Global cheaper?
In the VisaScout catalogue BLS International has the lower sample starting service fee (₹2,320). Real totals depend on the destination, visa type, speed and government fee, so compare the live price on both sites for your exact trip.
Which is faster, BLS International or VFS Global?
Both have the same catalogue average processing time. Most of the wait is the government's own processing, which neither provider controls.
Are BLS International and VFS Global official government services?
Both are private companies that run application centres for some governments under contract. Neither makes the visa decision — the government does.
Can either guarantee my visa?
No. Visa approval is always at the destination government's discretion. A provider can help you avoid mistakes in the application, but cannot guarantee the outcome.

More comparisons

VisaScout

VisaScout helps travellers discover and compare visa providers — prices, processing times, coverage and requirements — before choosing where to apply. Applications always happen on the provider's own website or at official government channels.