In a move poised to redefine citizen services globally, VFS Global has acquired a majority stake in CiX Citizen Experience, a Brazilian firm renowned for its innovative approach to digital and physical public service delivery. This strategic acquisition significantly enhances VFS Global’s capabilities, enabling it to offer more comprehensive and integrated solutions to governments and citizens worldwide. The partnership promises a new era of efficiency, accessibility, and innovation in how public services are delivered, leveraging cutting-edge technology to streamline processes and improve the overall citizen experience. VFS Global’s investment in CiX underscores a commitment to expanding its reach and impact in the realm of public service, signaling a major step forward in the company’s strategic growth.

Founded in 2008, CiX Citizen Experience has established itself as a leader in public service delivery in Brazil. The company manages over 250 service centers across the country, providing more than 200 types of services to various states and municipalities. To date, CiX has served over 150 million citizens, issuing more than 30 million identity cards and 20 million driver’s licenses. Their operations span major regions, including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, and Ceará, demonstrating their significant presence and impact on the Brazilian public service landscape.

VFS Global’s acquisition of a stake in CiX Citizen Experience is driven by several key strategic objectives. Primarily, it marks a major expansion for VFS Global into the broader arena of public service delivery and citizen engagement. This move aligns with the company’s vision to leverage its technological expertise and global infrastructure to improve public services worldwide. A key focus of the acquisition is to advance digital transformation through cutting-edge solutions, including artificial intelligence and data-driven platforms. By integrating CiX’s digital capabilities with VFS Global’s global network, the aim is to scale CiX’s success across international markets, including Africa, delivering next-generation, integrated solutions to both public and private sector clients. The partnership aims to capitalize on VFS Global’s extensive reach and operational capabilities to bring CiX’s innovative service model to a global audience.

“This collaboration is about scaling CiX Citizen Experience and delivering even more intuitive, efficient, and accessible government services,” said Sergio Rodrigues, CEO of CiX.

The acquisition is expected to yield significant benefits for citizens around the world. The primary goal is to simplify citizens’ interactions with government services through seamless physical and digital channels. The combined expertise of VFS Global and CiX aims to deliver more intuitive, efficient, and accessible government services, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and improving the overall experience. This collaboration also aims to deliver agility and cost savings for governments, which will ultimately translate into improved services and resource allocation for citizens. The integrated solutions designed through this partnership are intended to be citizen-centric, focusing on ease of use, speed, and reliability.

VFS Global’s footprint spans 158 countries, serving 69 client governments with an extensive network of over 3,600 application centers. Since 2001, the company has processed more than 311 million applications, demonstrating its vast experience and operational capacity. In 2023 alone, VFS Global secured seven major global contracts, including a landmark agreement with the UK government, further solidifying its position as a leader in visa and citizen services. VFS Global provides services for multiple governments including Australia, Norway, Sweden, Latvia, Iceland, and Austria.

“We are very pleased to have concluded this strategically important acquisition, which will be value-accretive for both CiX and VFS Global…This collaboration will be the launchpad for CiX’s next phase of growth to become a global powerhouse. It also underscores VFS Global’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions that improve lives and build trust in governments,” stated Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of VFS Global.

In Ghana, VFS Global operates biometric-enabled Premium Passport Centres in Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale since 2018, extending its services to the Ghanaian diaspora in the United States. Furthermore, VFS Global supports the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana with a new Ultra Centre in Accra since 2024. This center offers a range of services, including driver’s license renewals, replacements, international permits, and vehicle registration, showcasing VFS Global’s commitment to enhancing public service delivery in the region. The company’s presence in Ghana exemplifies its dedication to providing accessible and efficient citizen services across diverse geographical locations.

In conclusion, the acquisition of CiX Citizen Experience by VFS Global represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of citizen services worldwide. By leveraging their combined strengths, VFS Global and CiX are poised to deliver more efficient, accessible, and innovative solutions to governments and citizens. This partnership reinforces VFS Global’s dedication to improving public infrastructure and service excellence on a global scale. The collaboration between VFS Global and CiX Citizen Experience promises a brighter future for citizen services, driven by innovation and a commitment to enhancing the lives of people around the world.