In the fast-evolving 21st-century landscape, change is the only constant. One such transformation is taking place in the realm of border management. Thanks to the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data analytics, the global travel industry is changing quickly. This technological surge, combined with an amplified focus on safety, is fast-tracking the acceptance of contactless and Do-It-Yourself (DIY) technologies. These developments are laying the groundwork for the imminent realisation of Smart Borders.
According to Alok Singhal, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at VFS Global, the concept of Smart Borders is more than a testament to technological progress. “It mirrors the shifting ethos of global travellers, an increasingly eco-conscious demographic. These travellers are not just transforming business operations but also becoming more eco-conscious by looking to travel sustainably and creating meaningful travel experiences,” says Singhal.
Although change is afoot, the technology era also comes with its challenges. The need to secure algorithms and data sets is just one of them. It is critical to have an end-to-end security approach, ensuring every step of the process – from data collection to storage and usage – is robust against potential breaches.
Rising to these challenges is VFS Global, a pioneer in developing personalised services that prioritise safe travel. Their E-Visa service is a revolution in the travel domain, allowing travellers to apply for visas from the comfort of their homes. This service leverages VFS Global’s highly secure and intelligent solutions, enhancing convenience for travellers and adding an extra layer of security to the process. VFS Global’s commitment to innovation and adaptability is evident in its successful development of robust eVisa platforms for ten sovereign governments.
“2023 marked a significant milestone in this digital transformation journey. Services like Visa At Your Doorstep and Premium Lounge saw a surge in demand, reflecting a growing consumer preference for convenience and safety. As a technology-led organisation, we consistently try to stay at the forefront of digital innovation, strategically using AI to enhance processes and meet the specific needs of clients and governments. VFS Global recognises the tremendous potential of Africa and remains deeply committed to supporting the continuing development of travel and tourism to and from the continent.” says Singhal.
2024 Travel Trends
Early 2024 travel data shows promising trends. Visa volumes for applications processed via VFS Global in Kenya are already 80% of the 2023 numbers. Saudi Arabia, followed by Canada and China, are the top outbound destinations from Kenya. Schengen countries like Italy and The Netherlands are also popular.
Travel trends from South Africa in 2023 also witnessed significant growth. In 2023, total visa applications processed at the VFS Global Visa Application Centres in Kenya witnessed a 61% increase over 2022. These trends provide insight into travel patterns and underscore the effectiveness and acceptance of personalised services that leverage the highly secure solutions developed by VFS Global. It reflects the 35% increase in applications processed globally via VFS Global in 2023.
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) report in collaboration with VFS Global, the African Travel & Tourism sector could potentially add US$168BN to the African economy and create over 18 million new jobs. This growth depends on policies such as improving air infrastructure, visa facilitation, and tourism marketing.
In conclusion, the future of travel promises to be safer, more convenient, and more efficient than ever. The digital transformation of international borders is not just ushering in a new era of travel experiences but also unlocking unprecedented opportunities for growth in regions like Africa.