The Italian Embassy in Algiers has recently unveiled a cutting-edge facial recognition system for Schengen visa applications, marking a significant advancement in consular service coordination and improvement. Italian Embassy in Algeria.
This innovative approach, initiated by Ambassador Giovanni Pugliese and developed in partnership with Vfs-Global, aims to streamline the appointment booking process for visa applicants in Algeria.
In a statement from the embassy, this new procedure is set to be implemented in the coming weeks. It will facilitate appointment scheduling for business and tourism visas at six fixed centers across Algeria (Algiers, Oran, Constantine, Annaba, Ghardaia, and Adrar) and a mobile pop-up unit currently operational in Béjaia. According to Ambassador Pugliese, this strategy ensures enhanced security and transparency throughout the visa application process for Algerian residents. Additionally, it aims to prevent the use of third-party paid services, such as cyber-cafes and local travel agencies, by applicants.
This development comes in response to a growing demand for Schengen visas among the Algerian public and the increasing role of private entities, including social media, in offering intermediary appointment booking services for a fee. The Italian Embassy in Algiers, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has entrusted Vfs-Global with the task of developing this novel facial recognition mechanism. This initiative aims to effectively verify applicants’ identities right from the start of the application process.
The entire procedure, capped at 20 minutes, concludes with a photograph of the applicant. This selfie-style image, recorded on a dedicated portal in compliance with EU privacy regulations, will be included in the electronic appointment receipt. Applicants must present this receipt at Vfs-Global Centers as proof of registration. The embassy highlights that this new system will provide Algerian users with greater accessibility to the dedicated appointment portal and has launched an extensive communication campaign to explain the new application method.
For more detailed information on this innovative visa application process, visit dzwatch.net, Italian Embassy in Algeria .
