VFS Global Academy launches visa training certificate in partnership with Australian education group

VFS Global Academy, the education and talent development arm of VFS Global, has partnered with Wellington Education Group (WEG) to introduce an online training programme for people seeking skills in visa application support and related services.

The partnership was formalised through a memorandum of understanding signed at Sydney Town Hall. The collaboration marks the launch of VFS Global Academy’s Sydney initiative in Australia and is intended to connect education with practical industry requirements.

The initial offering is the Qualified Visa Submission Officer Certificate, a 20-hour online programme designed for students, graduates, jobseekers, career changers and professionals already working in visa services, travel, international education and related customer-facing sectors.

What does the visa training programme cover?

The course is delivered through seven self-paced modules covering visa systems, passport and identity documentation, online application procedures, document verification, fraud awareness, client communication and case management.

A country-specific module focuses on Australian student visa applications, including enrolment evidence and submission requirements. The programme concludes with a simulated visa submission case, allowing participants to apply the skills covered during the training.

Participants who complete all seven modules and pass the required examination will receive the Qualified Visa Submission Officer Certificate.

However, the certificate records completion of the training and assessments. It does not replace any government authorisation or professional registration required to provide regulated immigration advice.

What will Wellington Education Group do?

Under the agreement, Wellington Education Group will support student recruitment and engagement, provide the online learning platform and training infrastructure, and promote the programme internationally.

The organisations also intend to explore additional courses and professional development opportunities in international education, travel, tourism and related service industries.

Heidi Reid, chair of the Wellington Education Group Academic Board, said the partnership would combine the group's education and training experience with VFS Global's international expertise.

“The Qualified Visa Submission Officer Certificate is an exciting starting point,” Reid said, adding that the organisations hoped to develop further industry-relevant programmes to strengthen professional skills and support career development.

VFS Global Academy's international expansion

Established in 2023, VFS Global Academy provides education and professional development programmes focused on travel, tourism, hospitality and service industries. Its presence includes India, China, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Australia.

According to figures supplied for September 2026, VFS Global serves 71 client governments and operates more than 4,275 application centres across 170 countries. Its services include visa application support and biometric collection for Australia.

The Sydney partnership adds to the academy's international training activities, with the organisations seeking to develop courses that respond to workforce requirements and connect learners with employment opportunities.