French embassy records 50% jump in visa applications

By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter

The French embassy in Doha has recorded a 50% increase in the number of people applying for visas in one year after “externalising” its visa application to Capago MENA company, ambassador Eric Chevallier said yesterday.

From 18,000 in 2013, Capago MENA has delivered 27,000 (an average of 400 applicants per day) this year with only about one percent refusals, the envoy explained on the occasion of Capago MENA’s first anniversary since its inauguration on December 11 last year.

Out of the total number of applications, 80% were tourist visas while at least 2% were long staying visas, mostly students.

The embassy had recorded more than 16,000 applicants in the first nine months of 2013, higher than the 15,000 applicants during 2012.

Chevallier noted that the quality of service has significantly improved under the new mechanism. He said that Qatari citizens, as well citizens of countries which have agreements between Schengen countries, can get visas in less than 48 hours.

However, for certain nationalities, processing may take two weeks since they are required to attend a prior consultation based on a decision from Schengen countries.

Chevallier also announced that Qataris and citizens from other GCC countries will no longer be required to submit hotel reservations and flight details.

The visa application centre usually receives a large number of applicants during summer, which is peak season. But minus these requirements, he said “they can apply now and travel later on.”

The embassy earlier stressed that the decision to “externalise” their visa application will not change any of the Schengen regulations and laws, especially the fees. 

Capago MENA will run the operation of application but the visa is delivered under the authority of the consul at the French embassy.

Applicants will have to visit the website of the French embassy to get a link from the Capago MENA which provides all the needed information such as requirements and what kind of visa they are applying for: short staying, long staying, tourism, business, etc.

The ambassador also announced that a partnership between Capago and the embassy’s cultural centre was forged to promote French culture.

An exhibition of photographs by a French photographer will be held on December 11 at the Capago MENA office, located at Al Jaidah Square Business Centre, 2nd floor, 63 Airport Road, Umm Ghuwailina Zone 27.

Chevallier has urged people to visit France saying they should see its diversity. “France is one of the most diverse countries and there are areas which are really different,” he added. “We are extremely happy to have more visitors but we want more and we are open for more.”

He said the country receives more than 84mn tourists annually.