Bhubaneswar: In a major move to enhance global connectivity for the people of Odisha, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi officially inaugurated the VFS Global Visa Service Center at the Baba Saheb Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT) in Barmunda, Bhubaneswar, on April 1, 2026.
The ceremony, which coincided with the celebrations of Odisha Day (Utkal Dibas), was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Industry, and I&PR, Shri Hemant Sharma.
The establishment of this center marks a significant shift in the travel landscape of the state, as residents will no longer need to travel to metropolitan hubs like Kolkata, Delhi, or Hyderabad for visa processing.
Key Benefits for the People of Odisha:
Local Access and Reduced Costs: By providing visa services directly within Bhubaneswar, the center eliminates the heavy travel and accommodation expenses previously incurred by applicants traveling out of state. This is particularly beneficial for students and middle-class families seeking international opportunities.
Enhanced Productivity: The proximity of the facility saves valuable time for business professionals and students. Instead of a multi-day trip to another city, applicants can now complete their biometric enrollment and document submission locally.
Initial Coverage of Major Destinations: In its first phase, the center will cater to ten major countries, including the United Kingdom, Japan, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Estonia, Ireland, Malta, Morocco, and Egypt. Plans are already in place to expand services to more nations based on demand.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Located in a 3,000-square-foot space within the BSABT, the center is designed for high efficiency. It offers various premium services such as assistance with form filling, document verification, and travel insurance support.
Economic and Employment Growth: The center is expected to create direct employment for local youth, who are being trained by VFS Global to manage operations. Furthermore, it positions Bhubaneswar as an emerging hub for international education and business.
Strategic Integration: By placing the visa center within the state’s largest bus terminal, the government has integrated transport and essential services, making it easily accessible for people traveling from various districts across Odisha.
The Chief Minister noted that this initiative was made possible through the support of the Central Government and reflects the state’s commitment to “citizen-centric” governance, ensuring that the global aspirations of Odisha’s youth are supported by modern infrastructure.