VFS Global has announced the consolidation of Schengen visa processing in New Delhi into a single, centralised visa application centre. France is among the Schengen countries impacted by this transition, which will take effect from mid-February 2026. While the move is designed to improve efficiency in the long run, it brings short-term changes that France visa applicants must carefully plan for.
Understanding what’s changing, why it’s happening, and how to prepare can help applicants avoid delays and unnecessary stress during the transition period.
What’s Changing for France Visa Applicants
With the consolidation, France Schengen visa applications in New Delhi will no longer be processed across multiple locations. Instead, all biometric enrolment, document submission, and passport collection will be handled at the new central VFS Global facility on Kasturba Gandhi Marg.
Applicants with appointments scheduled on or after the transition date must ensure they report to the new centre. Those who fail to verify their appointment details may face missed submissions or rescheduling issues, particularly during the initial weeks of the move.
Temporary congestion, appointment slot pressure, and longer waiting times are also expected as applicants adjust to the new system.
Why VFS Global Is Consolidating Visa Services
The consolidation is part of a broader operational strategy by VFS Global to centralise visa processing for multiple countries under one roof. The key objectives behind this move include:
Increasing processing capacity through expanded biometric and document-handling infrastructure
Offering a single, streamlined location for multiple visa services
Improving operational efficiency as outbound travel demand from India continues to rise
Reducing administrative duplication across separate centres
For France visa applicants, this means a more structured and standardised process once the centre stabilises, though the transition phase requires extra attention.
Checklist of Documents and Updated Process Flow
While the location is changing, the core documentation requirements for a France Schengen visa remain the same. However, applicants should be extra diligent during the transition.
Essential Document Checklist
Valid passport with at least two blank pages
Completed Schengen visa application form
Recent passport-size photographs as per Schengen specifications
Confirmed travel itinerary (flights and accommodation)
Travel medical insurance covering the Schengen area
Proof of financial means (bank statements, salary slips, sponsorship if applicable)
Cover letter explaining purpose of travel
Supporting documents based on visa type (tourism, business, family visit, etc.)
Updated Process Flow
Book your France Schengen visa appointment for the new VFS Global centre
Verify centre address and reporting time before the appointment
Submit documents and provide biometrics at the consolidated facility
Track application status online
Collect passport or opt for courier delivery once processed
Ensuring your file is complete and error-free is especially important, as re-submission opportunities may be limited during high-volume periods.
Before vs. After: What’s Changed for France Visa Applicants?
Before the Consolidation
France Schengen visa applications in New Delhi were processed at multiple VFS locations
Applicants had to carefully track which centre handled which country
Footfall was distributed, often resulting in shorter on-site wait times
Operational changes were less frequent and more centre-specific
Applicants could sometimes switch between centres based on availability
After the Consolidation
All France Schengen visa applications are handled at one central VFS Global super-centre
Appointment location is standardised, reducing confusion once the transition settles
Higher daily applicant volume at a single location, especially during peak seasons
Initial transition phase may bring longer queues or limited appointment flexibility
Stronger emphasis on accurate bookings and complete documentation
What This Means for Applicants
Verifying your appointment location and date is now more important than ever
Early planning helps avoid congestion during high-demand periods
A complete, error-free application can prevent delays in a high-volume environment
This shift aims to streamline visa processing long-term, but applicants applying during the transition must plan carefully to ensure a smooth experience.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Appointment Around the Move
To reduce disruptions during the consolidation phase, France visa applicants should follow these best practices:
Apply earlier than usual, especially for peak travel months
Double-check appointment confirmation emails for centre location and instructions
Arrive well ahead of time, anticipating heavier footfall at the new facility
Avoid last-minute travel plans if your appointment falls close to the transition dates
Keep printed and digital copies of all documents and appointment confirmations
Proactive planning can make a significant difference during operational shifts like this.
How Schengen Assist Can Help
Navigating visa centre changes can be confusing, especially when appointment availability is limited. Schengen Assist helps applicants manage the process with confidence by offering:
Accurate appointment booking at the correct visa centre
End-to-end document verification to reduce rejection risks
Real-time guidance on process updates and centre changes
Personalised support for France Schengen visa applications
With expert oversight, applicants can avoid common errors and focus on their travel plans rather than administrative hurdles.
The Bottom Line
The relocation of the Delhi Schengen visa centre under VFS Global Delhi marks an important operational change for France visa applicants. While the long-term goal is smoother processing, the transition phase demands careful planning, early action, and accurate documentation.
Planning to apply for a France Schengen visa soon?
Let Schengen Assist handle your appointment scheduling and documentation support, so your application stays on track despite the changes.
👉 Know exactly what to submit and where
👉 Walk into your appointment fully prepared
👉 No confusion. No missed steps.
Visit: SchengenAssist.com
Email: info@schengenassist.com
