VFS Global acquires majority stake in CiX Citizen Experience

This acquisition focuses on transformation through advanced digital technologies. It includes AI and data-driven platforms.

By combining CiX’s digital capabilities with VFS Global’s infrastructure, both companies can deliver integrated solutions. This will benefit public and private sector clients worldwide.

Client governments and partners will receive enhanced, tailored solutions. These improvements aim to boost citizen engagement, access, and satisfaction.

Sergio Rodrigues, CEO of CiX Citizen Services, stated that partnering with VFS Global will accelerate growth. Access to their capital and technology allows rapid expansion in Latin America and beyond. The goal is to simplify citizens' lives with physical and digital solutions.

Zubin Karkaria, CEO of VFS Global, expressed satisfaction with the acquisition. He believes it will add value for both companies. VFS Global operates in 158 countries and serves 69 client governments.

With nearly 13,000 employees from 153 nationalities, VFS Global offers significant technological capabilities. This collaboration aims to transform citizen services globally while enhancing efficiency and inclusivity.

Since its founding in 2008, CiX Citizen Experience has pioneered public services in Brazil. The company manages over 250 service centers across the country. It provides more than 200 types of services to states and municipalities.

CiX has served over 150 million citizens, issuing over 30 million identity cards and 20 million driver’s licenses. Its operations span key regions like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, and Ceará.

VFS Global is a leader in trusted technology services for secure global mobility. Since its inception in 2001, it has processed over 311 million applications from more than 3,600 Application Centres worldwide.

In 2023, VFS secured seven major global contracts including one with the UK government for visa services across 142 countries. It also won contracts with Australia, Norway, Sweden, Latvia, Iceland, and Austria.

VFS Global enhances citizen services in Ghana through two key projects: the Premium Passport Service and Vehicle Licensing services. Since 2018, it has operated biometric-enabled Premium Passport Centres in Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale.

These centres serve the Ghanaian diaspora by providing faster processing times and dedicated support. In 2024, VFS began supporting the Driver Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) with a new Ultra Centre in Accra for various licensing needs.

The premium centres offer a user-friendly experience supported by customer service options like contact centres and email support. Through these initiatives, VFS continues to enhance Ghana's infrastructure development for accessible citizen services.