Doha, Qatar – In a significant development, residents of Qatar can now apply for their Portugal visas conveniently at the recently inaugurated VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Doha. This new facility, located at Levels 1 & 2, Al Nuaimi Building, Oqba Ibn Nafie Street, Airport Road, Doha, Qatar, officially opened its doors on September 3, 2023. The centre is set to accept documents for both short and long-stay visas to Portugal.
The agreement for VFS Global to provide Portugal visa services in Qatar was formalized on August 14, 2023, with H.E. Ambassador of Portugal in Qatar overseeing the signing ceremony.
H.E. Mr. Paulo Neves Pocinho, Ambassador of Portugal, expressed the significance of this collaboration, stating, “The establishment of this cooperation with VFS Global on visa issues in Qatar is an important step in the strategy to further develop the tourism sector in Portugal. It reflects the tendency of travel facilitation between Qatar and Portugal, which is a vital part of the developing bilateral relations between our friendly countries.”
Mr. Atul Marwah, Chief Operating Officer – MENA, VFS Global, expressed his enthusiasm for this new venture, saying, “We are truly excited to bring our Portugal visa services to Qatar, making the first step of the journey simple and seamless for travelers from here. We have enjoyed a long association with the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 2014, and we appreciate their continued faith in us.”
VFS Global’s presence in Qatar adds to its extensive global network, which currently serves Portugal in 23 countries through 65 Visa Application Centres worldwide. This expansion into Doha further strengthens their global outreach.
Applicants will also have the option to choose from a range of optional services offered by VFS Global, aimed at enhancing the customer experience. These services include SMS updates at every stage of the application process, photo booth and photocopy services, and a courier return service for the delivery of processed passports to the applicants’ doorstep.
For those seeking an elevated experience, VFS Global’s Premium Lounge will be available to Portugal visa applicants. This premium service includes end-to-end professional guidance, a faster application and biometric submission process, and complimentary SMS and courier return services, all within a plush and comfortable ambience.
This new Portugal Visa Application Centre in Doha marks a significant milestone in the facilitation of travel between Qatar and Portugal, ultimately benefiting travelers and contributing to the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations.