In 2010, VFS Global was selected by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in South Africa to handle visa applications in Nigeria, India, and China. Initially contracted for 3 years with the possibility of renewal, VFS Global now operates in 18 countries on behalf of the DHA.
In December 2013, VFS Global won a competitive bid to provide visa and permit services for foreign nationals in South Africa. The contract was for 5 years with options for 36-month renewals. Despite meeting all requirements, the DHA faced scrutiny from The Star newspaper in March 2024.
The Star’s article, “Alleged ‘tender mess’ at Home Affairs under fire,” accused the DHA of improper practices without including the DHA’s comprehensive responses. This one-sided reporting misleads the public and violates journalistic ethics.
Contrary to The Star’s claims, the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs and the Auditor-General of South Africa did not criticize the VFS Global contract extensions. In fact, the AGSA recommended a Public Private Partnership model, where VFS Global covers costs and pays the DHA. Despite efforts to comply, no suitable transaction advisors were found.
The DHA extended the VFS Global contract to prevent chaos and economic instability. The Star’s allegations of bribery and corruption in the UK and Nigeria are baseless, as evidenced by VFS Global’s recent contract to handle UK visas in 142 countries. The DHA will no longer respond to The Star’s inquiries, opting instead to address any issues publicly.
The DHA stands by its decision to work with VFS Global and rejects The Star’s sensationalist reporting. The DHA remains committed to transparency and integrity in its operations.