Italian Embassy warns of swindlers

COLOMBO: The Italian Embassy yesterday warned of swindlers acting as if entrusted by the Embassy to process visa applications to Italy.

The Embassy in a release said these swindlers ask for large amounts of money pretending to be able, through contacts in the Embassy, to cut short all procedures of verification of requirements to apply for a visa to Italy.

The Embassy requested the public to report these criminals to Police.

"The only agent the Embassy has entrusted to instruct and collect documents relating to visa requests for Italy is VFS: 120/A, Havelock Road, Colombo 5. Tel. 4541143, 4541144; Fax 4541142; Website www.italy-vfs.com; e-mail [email protected]. Only they can supply proper information and documentation for the application of a visa to Italy," the release said.

All other persons, agencies, offices providing advisory services are not recognised by the Embassy of Italy, the release said.

The fees to be paid for working permit visa 'Lavoro Subordinato' is only Rs. 10,500 while the fees to be paid for visa for family reunion 'Ricongiungimento familiare' is Rs. 10,500. Children under six years need not pay, the release added.