VFS Global commenced operation in its first Joint Visa Application Centre (JVAC) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh from February 9, 2023. The facility will initially accept visa applications for Austria, Estonia, Portugal, Switzerland and The Netherlands. In the subsequent phase visa applications for The Czech Republic, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Malta would be accepted.

Easy guide on applying for visas:

Visit the VFS Global website
Type India in the ‘I’m applying from’ section and the country you plan to visit in to ‘I’m going to’ field.
Click on ‘Find a centre’ and select Lucknow before booking your online appointment.

It is recommended to apply for visas as early as booking flights and stay. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (three months) before your date of travel. According to the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective February 9, 2020, one can apply for a Schengen visa up to six months before their date of travel. Particularly this year with higher demand and limited appointment slots available, VFS urges applicants to apply for their visa as early as possible.

vfsglobal.com