VFS Global breaks silence after Sri Lanka’s audit report on the e-visa deal raises questions about unremitted fees and system transparency.
VFS Global Addresses Audit Findings
VFS Global has issued a public statement following the Sri Lanka e-visa audit report, clarifying its role and reaffirming its commitment to transparency. The statement comes after the National Audit Office released a detailed investigation into the country’s online visa outsourcing agreement.
According to the report, the consortium operating the e-visa platform — VFS-IVS-GBS — allegedly failed to remit USD 1.245 million in value-added tax (VAT) and USD 127,970 in social security levies collected from visa applicants. The audit also found that some tourists were charged fees despite being exempt, while travelers from SAARC countries who were entitled to reduced rates had been overcharged.
The report further identified discrepancies between the number of visas issued and the fees remitted to the government — prompting public scrutiny over how the e-visa system has been managed since its launch.
VFS Global Clarifies Its Role
In its official statement, VFS Global emphasized that it acted only as a technical partner in the e-visa outsourcing scheme, while GBS Technology Services and IVS Global FZCO served as the prime contractors under the December 21, 2023 agreement with Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration.
“As soon as we came to know that an audit was to be conducted, VFS Global addressed a communication to the Office of the Auditor General on November 7, 2024, offering full support and information,” the company said.
“Although no response was received from the Auditor General’s Office, VFS remains committed to cooperating fully with Sri Lankan authorities whenever requested.”
The company reaffirmed that it is not involved in any judgmental or assessment parts of visa processing, but instead focuses on administrative and technical support as per government-defined rules and service-level agreements (SLAs).
Long-Term Presence and Global Trust
Having operated in Sri Lanka for over two decades, VFS Global highlighted its experience as a trusted partner to 69 governments across 165 countries. Founded in 2001, the company provides secure visa processing and technology solutions worldwide.
“VFS Global is deeply committed to integrity and transparency with all its client governments,” the company noted, adding that it has fully complied with all Sri Lankan regulations in good faith since the start of the partnership.
The company also stated that the matter remains sub judice, meaning it is still under legal consideration, and any formal representation will be made “to the appropriate forum as necessary.”
Background on the E-Visa Deal
Sri Lanka’s e-visa platform was introduced to simplify travel procedures and promote tourism. However, the audit’s revelations about unremitted taxes, overcharging, and fee discrepancies have sparked debate about the accountability and oversight of outsourced public services.
While the National Audit Office’s findings have drawn criticism toward the consortium, VFS Global’s swift statement underscores its effort to clarify misconceptions and maintain trust among travelers and government partners.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
This latest development highlights the growing importance of accountability in government outsourcing deals, especially those that impact international travelers and the tourism industry’s reputation.
As Sri Lanka continues to recover its global tourism appeal, transparent and fair visa practices remain essential to rebuilding traveler confidence and ensuring a positive national image.
VFS Global’s open communication following the audit report reflects a commitment to cooperation — a move that may help restore trust amid the ongoing inquiry.
Conclusion
The Sri Lanka e-visa audit has brought renewed attention to how public-private partnerships are managed in the travel sector. With VFS Global pledging full support and emphasizing its limited role, the next steps will depend on the government’s review of the findings and future policy reforms.
Follow us for updates on Sri Lanka’s e-visa developments, share your thoughts in the comments, and stay informed as this story unfolds.