VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, has acquired a majority stake in CiX Citizen Experience, a Brazilian-based provider of digital and physical citizen services.

The strategic acquisition marks a major step in VFS Global’s expansion into broader public service delivery and citizen engagement.

With nearly two decades of innovation in citizen services, CiX has built a strong footprint in Brazil. Its success will now be scaled across global markets, including Africa, through VFS Global’s international reach and operational capabilities.

The acquisition is focused on advancing transformation through cutting-edge digital solutions, including AI and data-driven platforms.

By combining CiX’s digital capabilities with VFS Global’s global infrastructure and expertise in managing complex service ecosystems, the partnership aims to deliver next-generation, integrated solutions to both public and private sector clients worldwide.

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

“Partnering with VFS Global will supercharge our growth. With access to their capital, technology, talent, and global network, we can expand rapidly across Latin America and beyond. Our goal is to simplify citizens’ lives with seamless physical and digital services that also deliver agility and cost savings for governments.”

Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of VFS Global, stated: “We are very pleased to have concluded this strategically important acquisition, which will be value-accretive for both CiX and VFS Global.

VFS Global operates in 158 countries, serves 69 client governments, and has a workforce of nearly 13,000 people from 153 nationalities.

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.”

Founded in 2008, CiX Citizen Experience has become a pioneer in public service delivery in Brazil, managing over 250 service centres nationwide.

The company offers more than 200 types of services to states and municipalities, having served over 150 million citizens.

It has issued more than 30 million identity cards and 20 million driver’s licenses, with operations in major regions including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, and Ceará.

VFS Global has also been rapidly expanding its global footprint. With over 3,600 application centres in 158 countries, it has processed more than 311 million applications since 2001.

In 2023 alone, the company secured seven major global contracts, including a landmark agreement with the UK government to manage visa and citizenship services across 142 countries.

Other recent contracts include services for the governments of Australia, Norway, Sweden, Latvia, Iceland, and Austria—further reinforcing VFS Global’s position as a trusted partner in visa and consular services.

In Ghana, VFS Global has enhanced citizen services through two key projects. Since 2018, it has operated biometric-enabled Premium Passport Centres in Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale, extending its services to the Ghanaian diaspora in the United States.

These centres offer faster passport processing and dedicated support.

In 2024, VFS Global began supporting the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana with a new Ultra Centre in Accra, offering services including driver’s license renewals, replacements, international permits, and vehicle registration.

The premium centres deliver a modern, user-friendly experience supported by responsive customer service channels.

Through these initiatives, VFS Global continues to support public infrastructure and service excellence in Ghana and beyond.