Visa processing analyst: a rising career in the travel industry

As global travel rebounds in the post-pandemic world, the demand for smooth and accurate visa support has grown significantly, especially in countries like Bangladesh, where obtaining a visa for foreign travel can be complex. This growing need has given rise to a promising and specialised profession: the visa processing analyst. This profession holds potential for a successful career, both in office-based roles and as freelancers. Halima Yasmin Mukta, a Visa Analyst at Wings Travels, who has been successfully working in the industry for over 5 years, shared insights about this profession.

Who are visa processing analysts?

A visa processing analyst is a professional who specialises in managing the end-to-end process of visa applications on behalf of clients. From selecting the right visa category to compiling and reviewing required documents, filling out application forms (like the DS-160 for the USA or the Schengen form for Europe), and drafting cover letters or sponsorship documents, they perform a variety of tasks.

They also coach applicants ahead of embassy interviews, keep track of the latest immigration policies, and adapt to changing requirements from different embassies. Their ultimate goal is to ensure that every application is submitted with the highest chance of success, without errors or oversights.

Academic background and skills needed

While there's no mandatory academic path to becoming a visa analyst, degrees in Tourism and Hospitality, International Relations, or Public Administration can provide a strong foundation. Most importantly, fluency in English is essential, as visa documentation and communication with embassies typically occur in English.

Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle sensitive personal data with discretion are also must-haves in this profession.

Where can they work?

Visa processing analysts are in demand across multiple sectors, such as travel agencies and tour operators, overseas education consultancies, immigration firms, and corporate HR departments of companies with frequent international travel. With the rise of Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Agoda and Trip.com, the job market has widened further, both locally and internationally. Additionally, many analysts choose to work freelance or start their own consultancy services, offering flexible career options.

Suitable for women

According to the socio-economic lifestyle of Bangladesh, this profession is highly suitable for women. This is mainly an official or desk job, or can be performed by 'work from home'. If a female professional gains expertise and can create a good number of personal clients, she can serve them while staying at her own place. So, professionals who do not want to do a field job, but rather want an office culture job, especially women, can choose this career.

Earning potential

Entry-level analysts in Bangladesh typically earn between BDT 15,000 and 25,000 per month. With experience, expertise, and a strong client base, monthly income can soar beyond BDT 50,000 to 100,000. Those working with international clients or running their own agency can earn even more.

Why hire an expert?

Although travellers are free to handle their own visa applications, the process isn't always simple. Incomplete documentation, applying under the wrong category, misinterpreting embassy requirements, or making errors in the form can all lead to rejection. A visa processing analyst helps avoid these pitfalls and saves valuable time, especially for busy professionals or first-time travellers.

That said, hiring an analyst is not a requirement. Confident and experienced travellers may still choose to apply independently.

Boosting tourism through expertise

Visa analysts play a behind-the-scenes yet critical role in promoting travel. By simplifying the visa process, they help unlock travel opportunities for individuals, enabling them to join group tours, family vacations, or solo trips abroad. As the first point of contact in many travel experiences, these professionals act as ambassadors of the tourism sector, ultimately supporting the growth of international tourism and revenue for the country.

Beware of false guarantees

It's important to note that no visa analyst or agency can guarantee visa approval. The decision always lies with the visa-issuing authority or consular officer. Any claim of "100% visa guarantee" or "no visa, no fee" should be treated with caution, as such promises may be deceptive or outright fraudulent.

Challenges in the profession

Visa analysts face several challenges in their work. Embassy regulations are frequently updated, requiring professionals to stay constantly informed. They also deal with highly personal client data, requiring strict confidentiality and ethical responsibility.

Moreover, analysts must be mentally prepared to handle client disappointment when visas are denied, often through no fault of their own. Peak travel seasons also bring increased workloads, requiring time management and stress-handling skills. And lastly, professionals must tactfully manage situations where clients attempt to submit false or misleading information.