Portugal’s consulate general in Luanda has implemented mandatory facial recognition technology for all visa applicants, marking a significant shift in the application process for Angolan citizens. The new system requires facial scans during appointment scheduling at the VFS Global visa center in Luanda.
The implementation is part of VFS Global’s broader digital transformation of visa services worldwide. Earlier this year, the company launched a digital platform for Indonesia’s Electronic Visa on Arrival system, demonstrating their commitment to modernizing visa application processes globally.
Under the new requirements, all applicants must complete a facial recognition scan when scheduling their visa appointments. The technology aims to enhance security measures and streamline the verification process for Portuguese visa applications from Angola.
The news aligns with VFS Global’s expanding role in international visa processing. The company recently renewed its contract with Finland to manage visa and residence permit services across 32 countries, highlighting their growing influence in global visa administration.
The adoption of facial recognition technology in Angola reflects a broader trend in immigration and border control systems worldwide. The European Union is preparing to implement its Entry/Exit System (EES), which will require both fingerprint and facial scans for travelers entering EU countries, indicating a wider shift toward biometric verification in international travel.
While the new system promises improved efficiency and security, it represents a significant change for Angolan applicants, who must now incorporate this additional step into their visa application process. The consulate has indicated that all visa categories processed in Angola will be subject to these new requirements.
Sources: VerAngola, Global Citizen Solutions, Travel and Tour World
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March 3, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team
