Chatbot is available in 141 countries and will use advanced Generative AI technology to provide users with conversational support via both voice and text commands
In a move to enhance customer service, VFS Global, a leading visa and passport administration outsourcing firm, has introduced an AI-powered chatbot to streamline the United Kingdom visa application process, offering travellers instant, accurate assistance through both voice and text interactions.
In a press statement VFS says that the chatbot is designed to handle the increasing demand for customer inquiries related to United Kingdom visa applications. It adds that chatbot was developed by VFS Global’s AI team, with input from its centres in Dubai, Mumbai and Berlin.
It adds that the chatbot is available in 141 countries and will use advanced Generative AI technology to provide users with conversational support via both voice and text commands.
According to VFS, the new tool aims to address the growing need for efficient and accessible customer service by delivering real-time, accurate information to assist travellers throughout the visa process.
The statement adds that the system is hosted on VFS Global’s secure IT infrastructure, with built-in data privacy measures to ensure the safety of personal information.
It adds that the AI tool follows strict ethical guidelines and is regularly updated to maintain compliance with global security standards. The development process also incorporated ethical AI practices, with the collaboration of the Responsible AI Institute to minimise bias and safeguard fairness.
It further adds that the key features of the AI chatbot include human-like interactions, country-specific information, and secure data masking for protecting personally identifiable information.
VFS says that chatbot operates around the clock, providing assistance at any time of day. A user feedback mechanism is also in place to improve the chatbot’s responses over time, further refining its service
Zubin Karkaria
“The rollout of VFS Global’s AI-powered chatbot demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring our visa services are accessible, efficient and meet the needs of all customers. Providing instant access to accurate information about the visa application process will ensure we continue to offer the best service to our customers,” says Jen Vidler, Deputy Director, Cross Cutting Service Operations, Visa, Status and Information Services, Customer Services Group, UK Visas and Immigration.
“Technology and innovation have always been the cornerstones of our operations at VFS Global, and we are pleased to launch this AI-powered information solution which will significantly enhance the visa application experience for our customers travelling to the UK from across the globe. We are developing a range of AI and digital technology driven products to drive the next transformation in visa and consular services for our Client Governments and customers. We remain deeply committed to the responsible development of AI in accordance with the policies and requirements of our client governments,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global.
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