UK goes all out to woo Indians for World Cup

Kolkata: The British administration is betting big on the ensuing Cricket World Cup 2019 to boost tourism and draw a larger number of Indian visitors to the UK. With less than 100 days to go for the 12th edition of the Cricket World Cup 2019, scheduled to be held in the UK from May 30 to July 14, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and VFS Global are gearing up to welcome cricket-lovers in hordes to make the trip from India to the UK.

With the World Cup last held in England in 1999, it is 20 years since the UK welcomed tourists from around the world for this competition. This year, tens of thousands of Indian visitors are expected to travel to the UK from India to attend the tournament.

As the tournament is coinciding with the peak travel season in India, VFS Global is introducing special facilities and packages aimed at making the visa application process convenient for applicants.

Services such as Group Appointments, Prime Time Saturday/weekday facility (where applicants can submit applications outside regular hours, i.e. 9am–2 pm on Saturdays, and in the evenings on weekdays), and Premium Lounge services will be available at discounted rates throughout the peak season.

Bruce Bucknell, British Deputy High Commissioner Kolkata, said cricket brings people together, connects countries and communities and makes them active. The British administration is looking forward to welcoming the Indian team and supporters to England and Wales for the Cricket World Cup from May this year, he said.