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BLS International

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BLS International Limited
Company typePublic
IndustryServices
HeadquartersNew Delhi, India
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
  • Mr. Diwakar Aggarwal(Chairman- Non-Executive Director)
  • Mr Nikhil Gupta (Managing Director)
  • Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal (Joint Managing Director)
  • Mr. Karan Aggarwal (Executive Director)
[1]
ServicesVisa and passport outsourcing, biometric enrolment, e-governance, consular services, travel insurance, mobile biometrics etc. [2]
RevenueIncrease ₹438.09 crore (US$51 million) (2024)[3]
Total equityIncrease ₹14,792 crore (US$1.7 billion) (2024)[4]
Number of employees
60,000 (2024)[5]
Websitewww.blsinternational.com


BLS International is a global outsourcing and technology services provider specializing in visa, passport, consular, and citizen services for governments and diplomatic missions. Headquartered in New Delhi, India. [6] [7] BLS International operates in over 65 countries across five continents. [8][9]

Founded in 2005, the company has grown significantly, leveraging advanced technologies such as biometric systems and artificial intelligence to enhance service delivery. [10][11]

Listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India, BLS International adheres to stringent corporate governance practices and has received numerous awards for its excellence in service delivery. [12] [13]

History

2005

BLS International was founded in New Delhi, India, and secured its first visa processing contract from the Portuguese Embassy in Delhi. This initial contract marked the beginning of the company's journey in the visa outsourcing industry, establishing its foundational operations and setting the stage for future expansion. [14][15]

2006-2007

The company expanded its services by commencing operations for the Embassies of Austria, Belgium, Greece, and Tunisia in India. These early contracts helped BLS International build a reputation for reliable and efficient visa processing services, attracting more diplomatic missions to its client base. [16]

2008-2010

BLS International extended its services to international locations by starting operations for the Embassy of India in Spain, Kuwait, Sudan, and Russia. This period of growth highlighted the company's capability to manage visa services across diverse geopolitical regions, further solidifying its position in the global market.[17]

2011

The company opened Visa Application Centers (VACs) for the Indian Embassy in the UAE, along with other Indian missions in Southeast Asia. This expansion into the Middle East and Southeast Asia marked a significant milestone, demonstrating BLS International's ability to handle large-scale visa operations in multiple countries.[18]

2012

BLS International commenced operations for the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia and Singapore. These new operations strengthened the company's presence in the Gulf region and Southeast Asia, enabling it to cater to a broader range of applicants and diplomatic missions.[19]

2013

The company initiated visa processing services for multiple European Union countries. This significant expansion into Europe allowed BLS International to diversify its client portfolio and enhance its service offerings, positioning itself as a key player in the European visa outsourcing market. [20]

2014-2015

BLS International added seven Indian missions abroad, including high-volume locations in the United States and Canada. This strategic expansion into North America boosted the company's global presence and enabled it to handle a larger volume of visa applications from major diplomatic missions.[21]

2016

BLS International signed a global visa outsourcing contract worth €175 million with Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MAEC). This contract was a major milestone for the company, significantly increasing its revenue and establishing it as a leading provider of visa outsourcing services in Europe. [22]

Additionally, BLS International was awarded an e-governance project by the Punjab State Government in India to operate and manage 2,147 Seva Kendras, providing 223 citizen-centric services such as issuing birth and death certificates and permits, as defined under the Punjab Right to Services Act, 2011. [23]

2017

The company began providing citizen services to Afghan nationals in the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia under a consular service contract with the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. This expansion marked BLS International's entry into consular services for non-Indian nationals, broadening its service scope and client base. [24][25][26][27]

2018

BLS International launched new value-added services, including travel insurance, mobile biometrics, and courier services. These enhancements improved the applicant experience and expanded the company's range of services, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

2019

The company expanded in the Asia-Pacific region, including operations in Australia, China, and Japan. Additional contracts were secured in Europe and the Middle East, further strengthening BLS International's global presence and enabling it to cater to a diverse array of clients.

2020

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, BLS International implemented stringent health and safety protocols and introduced contactless solutions for document submission and biometric enrolment. These measures ensured the continuity of services during the global health crisis and highlighted the company's adaptability and commitment to public safety.[28] [29] [30]

2021

The company integrated advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enhance biometric enrolment and document verification processes. E-governance solutions were expanded to support digital transformation initiatives by governments, further demonstrating BLS International's focus on technological innovation.[31][32][33]

2022-2024

BLS International increased its footprint in Africa and Latin America, securing contracts with additional governments. The company continued to receive awards for service excellence and customer satisfaction, maintaining its reputation as a leader in the visa outsourcing industry. These years marked continued growth and recognition, positioning BLS International for sustained success in the future. [34]

Awards and Recognitions

BLS International has received numerous awards and accolades, reflecting its excellence in service delivery, innovation, and corporate governance. Some notable recognitions include:

Times 40Under40 Awards 2023

Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director of BLS International, was named to the 'Times 40Under40' list for 2023, which recognizes individuals under 40 who have achieved notable success in their respective fields. The award was presented by actor Sunil Shetty at a ceremony held at the Oberoi on July 24, 2023.[35] [36]

ET Global Indian Leaders 2022

Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director of BLS International, received the ET Global Indian Leaders Award in 2022. The award recognizes his leadership and contributions among global Indian leaders. Under his leadership, BLS International has attained significant achievements.[37]

Times 30Under30 Awards 2021

Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director of BLS International, was included in the 'Times 30Under30' list for 2021. The list highlights young individuals who have distinguished themselves through exceptional achievements. The virtual award ceremony took place on June 5, 2021, on ET NOW, and the award was presented by actor Anupam Kher.[38]

India’s Most Trusted Companies Award 2019

BLS International was recognized as 'India’s Most Trusted Visa Outsourcing Services Company' at the India’s Most Trusted Companies Award 2019. This accolade highlighted the company's achievements in visa process outsourcing and related services. The award was based on research conducted by International Brand Consulting Corporation, USA, as detailed in the Consumer Research Report 2019.[39][40]

Best Operational Process in Visa Outsourcing Award at World Quality Congress & Awards, 2019

BLS International received the award for “Best Operational Process in Visa Outsourcing” at the World Quality Congress & Awards held at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, on July 4, 2019. The event was attended by various leaders from different business and service sectors.[41][42]

Best Visa Facilitation Centres Award at the Middle East Travel and Tourism Leadership Awards 2018

BLS International was awarded the ‘Best Visa Facilitation Centres Award’ at the Middle East Travel and Tourism Leadership Awards 2018. The awards ceremony was organized by Gulf Cooperation Council Africa Leadership Excellence and took place in Dubai on October 3, 2018.[43]

Excellence in the Travel Sector – CMO Asia’s Best Practices Awards 2018

BLS International received the “Excellence in the Travel Sector” award at the CMO Asia’s Best Practices Awards 2018. The recognition, presented in Singapore on August 1, 2018, acknowledged the company’s significant impact in the travel sector.[44][45]

Times Network’s National Awards for Marketing Excellence in Travel & Tourism Industry, 2018

Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director of BLS International, received the ‘Young Achiever Award of the Year’ at the Times Network’s National Awards for Marketing Excellence in Travel & Tourism Industry. The award ceremony took place in Mumbai on July 5, 2018.[46]

India's Best Visa Outsourcing Services Company – India's Best Company of the Year Award 2017

BLS International achieved "India's Best Company of the Year Award 2017" for "India's Best Visa Outsourcing Services Company" in Mumbai on March 10, 2018, recognizing their pioneering efforts in the field of visa process outsourcing.[47]

Acquisitions

BLS International has made several strategic acquisitions to expand its services and global reach. The following table lists the acquisitions by BLS International:

Date Acquired Company Description Sector Acquisition Price Reference
August, 2018 Starfin India Pvt. Ltd. Starfin India Pvt. Ltd. provides financial inclusion services including banking, insurance, and other financial services. Banking & Finance Undisclosed [48]
June, 2022 Zero Mass Private Ltd. Provider of zero microfinance & savings support Financial Services $15.4M [49]
June, 2024 Aadifidelis Solution Pvt. Ltd. Aadifidelis Solution Pvt. Ltd. provides financial and banking services in rural and semi-urban areas. Banking & Finance $22.69M [50]
June, 2024 iDATA Provider of official visa application services Travel and Hospitality $54.8M [51]

Listing

The company's equity shares are listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and Metropolitan Stock Exchange (MSEI).[52]


References

  1. ^ "Board of Directors - BLS International Services Ltd". https://www.blsinternational.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  2. ^ "Additional services". https://india.blsspainvisa.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  3. ^ "BLS International Services Q3 results: Profit rises by 90% to Rs 87 Cr". https://www.business-standard.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  4. ^ "BLS International Services Ltd". https://www.valueresearchonline.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  5. ^ "BLS International". Employees: 60,000
  6. ^ "Contact Us- BLS International Services Ltd". www.blsinternational.com.
  7. ^ "BLSIN:Natl India Stock Quote - BLS International Services Ltd". Bloomberg.com. Retrieved 3 July 2018.
  8. ^ "Global Presence- BLS International Services Ltd". www.blsinternational.com.
  9. ^ "Nariman Point centre capable of processing 1,000 visas per day: BLS International". https://www.zeebiz.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  10. ^ "Biometrics and Identity Management Services". https://www.blsinternational.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  11. ^ "BLS Apply at Home service for Spain Schengen visa". https://www.tripadvisor.in. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  12. ^ "BLS International Price Target". https://economictimes.indiatimes.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  13. ^ "BLSIN:Natl India Stock Quote - BLS International Services Ltd". https://www.business-standard.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  14. ^ "Travel News - 'Our endeavour is to work with multiple governments in different geographies' | TravelBiz Monitor". www.travelbizmonitor.com. Retrieved 6 July 2018.
  15. ^ "BLS International Foundation Year".
  16. ^ "Evolution of BLS International". https://www.blsinternational.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  17. ^ "Evolution of BLS International". https://www.blsinternational.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  18. ^ "Evolution of BLS International". https://www.blsinternational.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  19. ^ "Evolution of BLS International". https://www.blsinternational.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  20. ^ "Another EU Country Outsorces Visa Services to BLS International". https://schengen.news. Retrieved 20 November 2023. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  21. ^ "Authorized BLS Centers". https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  22. ^ "BLS International wins €175 million contract". @businessline. Retrieved 3 July 2018.
  23. ^ "BLS International to open over 2,000 centres in Punjab". The Financial Express. 3 October 2016. Retrieved 3 July 2018.
  24. ^ "BLS International wins five Gulf country contract for Islamic Republic of Afghanistan". amedia.co.in. Retrieved 3 July 2018.
  25. ^ "Indian company will provide citizen services in Afghanistan - The Sunday Guardian Live". The Sunday Guardian Live. 11 November 2017. Retrieved 3 July 2018.
  26. ^ "BLS International inks pact with embassy of Afghanistan". India Today. Retrieved 3 July 2018.
  27. ^ "BLS Intl bags USD 5 mn order from Afghan Embassy". India Today. Retrieved 3 July 2018.
  28. ^ "FAQs : Covid-19". https://uk.blsspainvisa.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  29. ^ "BLS COVID-19 Questions and Answers". https://www.bls.gov/covid19. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  30. ^ "BLS International expects high visa demand after resumption of international flights". https://economictimes.indiatimes.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  31. ^ "BLS International expects high visa demand after resumption of international flights" (PDF). https://www.blsinternational.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  32. ^ "BLS International expects high visa demand after resumption of international flights". https://www.techcircle.in/. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  33. ^ "BLS International expects high visa demand after resumption of international flights". https://www.sciencedirect.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  34. ^ "BLS International expects high visa demand after resumption of international flights". https://travel.economictimes.indiatimes.com. {{cite web}}: External link in |website= (help)
  35. ^ "Shikhar Aggarwal, JMD of BLS International, on Times 40Under40 List". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  36. ^ "Shikhar Aggarwal, JMD of BLS International, on Times 40Under40 List". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  37. ^ [https:/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/company/corporate-trends/et-global-indian-leaders-2022-recognised-entrepreneurial-excellence-across-industries/articleshow/95013848.cms?from=mdr "ET Global Indian Leaders Awards 2022"]. Retrieved 28 July 2024. {{cite web}}: Check |url= value (help)
  38. ^ "Shikhar Aggarwal, JMD of BLS International, on Times 30Under30 List". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  39. ^ "India's Most Trusted Companies Award 2019". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  40. ^ "India's Most Trusted Companies Award 2019". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  41. ^ "Best Operational Process in Visa Outsourcing Award". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  42. ^ "Best Operational Process in Visa Outsourcing Award". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  43. ^ "Best Visa Facilitation Centres Award". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  44. ^ "Excellence in the Travel Sector". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  45. ^ "Excellence in the Travel Sector". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  46. ^ "Young Achiever Award Of The Year". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  47. ^ "India's Best Visa Outsourcing Services Company". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  48. ^ "BLS International acquires Starfin India Pvt. Ltd". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  49. ^ "BLS International acquires Zero Mass Private Ltd". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  50. ^ "BLS International acquires Aadifidelis Solution Pvt. Ltd". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  51. ^ "BLS International acquires iDATA". Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  52. ^ indiainfoline.com. "Listing of Equity Shares of BLS International Services Limited". Retrieved 3 July 2018.
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