New Delhi, Feb 19th: BLS International, a leading global AI & tech-enabled services partner for governments and citizens, has commenced Slovakia visa operations in Beirut and Nairobi, (Lebanon and Kenya), marking a strategic expansion across the Middle East and Africa and further strengthening access to Slovak visa services. The newly launched centres offer dedicated, professionally managed facilities, enabling applicants to submit their visa applications seamlessly within their home markets. Reinforcing its commitment to accessible and value-driven visa facilitation, BLS International delivers these services at highly competitive and cost-effective service fees across markets.
Applicants in Lebanon and Kenya can now apply for Schengen (Type C) visas for short stays and National (Type D) visas for long-term purposes such as study, employment, or family reunification. Both centres facilitate biometric enrolment in a secure environment and offer a range of optional premium services, including SMS notifications, courier return services, and assisted services such as form filling, printing among others. Premium Lounge Services are also available, providing a more comfortable and personalised submission experience.
The expansion builds on BLS International’s existing Slovakia visa operations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE, as well as Baku in Azerbaijan. In the UAE, applicants also benefit from a Home Collection service, enabling document submission directly from their home or office for added convenience. All Slovakia VACs operated by BLS International are strategically located in city centres and in close proximity to the respective Slovak Embassies, ensuring accessibility and convenience for applicants.
Ms Anne Kurian, Regional Head, Middle East, BLS International, said, “The commencement of Slovakia visa operations in Beirut and Nairobi reflects our continued commitment to bringing visa services closer to applicants. By expanding our footprint across the Middle East and Africa, we are enhancing accessibility, improving service standards, and ensuring a seamless and transparent application experience. Together with our existing operations in the UAE and Azerbaijan, these centres further strengthen our ability to support growing travel, education, and business mobility to Slovakia.”
The expansion comes at a time when Slovakia is witnessing strong tourism momentum, recording over 6.3 million overnight visitors in 2025(1) — marking a significant year-on-year increase and bringing visitor numbers close to pre-pandemic peaks. BLS International continues to focus on delivering an efficient, transparent, and applicant-friendly submission process in accordance with official guidelines.