Consumer Council critical to visa assistance

The US Embassy in Oslo, Norway. Photo: Berit Roald / NTB scanpix

The Consumer Council critical to visa assistance

Several private companies offer Norwegians assistance in applying for a visa to the United States of America and other countries. The Norwegian Consumer Council is critical.

 

– This appears to be an unnecessary expenditure of money, and I wonder if people are aware that they pay more than strictly necessary, says Leader of the Consumer Council, Randi Flesland, to the financial newspaper Dagens Næringsliv. The newspaper mentions several companies that offer travellers assistance to obtain visas to countries which require them.

Flesland recommends people who travel to countries where visas are required to apply directly to the country’s embassy or representation.

– At the very least you ought to find out whether it is possible to complete the application on your own. The money you save can certainly be of benefit and be enjoyed on something more useful or fun, she says.

The Consumer Council Leader emphasizes that it is not illegal for these companies to offer their services.

The United States Embassy in Norway also encourages Norwegians to apply for entry or visa through the United States official website – and states that no third party assistance is needed.

 

 

© NTB scanpix / #Norway Today