Question : VISA FACILITATION COMPANIES

(a) whether the Government is seeking help from the private companies in order to simplify visa procedure in foreign countries;

(b) if so, the total number of private companies engaged in this work so far along with the details thereof;

(c) whether any complaints have been received against these private companies and if so, the details thereof; and

(d) the action taken/proposed to be taken against such companies?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINSTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (GEN. RETD. V.K.SINGH)

(a) While the Government has engaged non-government companies in some Missions/Posts abroad, through competitive bidding procedures, for collection of visa applications, Government has not sought help from private companies to simplify visa procedures.

(b) to (d) Does not arise.