WO2013098851A2

WO2013098851A2 - A system for processing visa applications

Info

Publication number: WO2013098851A2
Application number: PCT/IN2012/000805
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hanif SOHRAB; Pratap SING ANIRUDH
Original assignee: Vfs Global Services Pvt. Ltd.
Priority date: 2011-12-23
Filing date: 2012-12-10
Publication date: 2013-07-04
Also published as: WO2013098851A3; WO2013098851A8

Abstract

A system for assisting a user in completing formalities associated with a predetermined procedure includes a token issuing terminal for receiving data from the user/applicant and issue a token corresponding to the data input and a kiosk equipped with an user interface for receiving, processing and verifying information, documents, token issued and user/applicant identifiers submitted at the kiosk. The kiosk further includes a reader, a non-repudiating module, an biometric finger print module which is NFIQ Compliant and supports NIST standard, ICAO compliant photo enrolment module, a data storage module, an alert module, an envelope dispenser, at least two printers, a drop box, a multimode payment module which accepts cash and dispenses change, an two way assistance module, a verification module and fraud detection module.

Description

A SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING VISA APPLICATIONS

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to computerized kiosks. Particularly, this disclosure relates to computerized kiosks that process the information fed thereto by users through a user interface. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a computerized kiosk that is used to process and verify visa applications.

BACKGROUND

Whenever a person intends to travel abroad, he or she is required to obtain the necessary permission by completing the necessary administrative and legal formalities. However during the process of completing the necessary legal and administrative formalities, the person traveling abroad has to prepare and subsequently submit a large number of supporting documents along with the application form. Subsequent to filling a large number of forms, the traveler is often required to visit the concerned foreign consulate in order to submit the filled up application forms. The traveler is required to follow certain pre determined criteria while preparing the necessary documentation and the applicant often feels burdened during the process of ensuring that all the necessary criteria for preparing the documentation are met.

Typically, the documentation that needs to be provided to a foreign consulate includes a large number of pages and it is often difficult for a person traveling abroad for the first time to get familiarized with the purpose and meaning corresponding to all the rows/columns of the documentation. The visa documentation often includes a large number of sheets and the visa aspirant is required to put his/her signatures on multiple pages and at multiple locations and there is a possibility that the person completing the documentation might miss out on a few columns wherein his/her signatures are required. Also the documents need to be arranged and presented in a particular fashion. It is also difficult for a person who is traveling abroad for the first time to fill all the rows/columns of the documentation without making any errors. In the event that the visa aspirant leaves any columns of the visa application or the corresponding document unanswered or misses out on certain specific technical documentation, his/her visa application would be rejected and he/ she will be asked to reinitiate the process of completing all the necessary formalities., which in turn would result in visa aspirant losing his/her precious time and in some cases such a delay in completion of necessary formalities might culminate in visa aspirant postponing or altering his/her travel schedule. A person who is preparing the visa related documentation would normally require assistance in answering various questions provided in the documentation and also in providing all the necessary details in an error free manner. But it is difficult for a novice user or a person traveling abroad for the first time to get necessary help in completing the documentation due to the fact that the foreign consulates do not normally employee any personnel for the purposes of assisting the visa aspirants.

The visa documentation often includes a large number of sheets and the visa aspirant is required to put his/her signatures on multiple pages and at multiple locations and there is a possibility that the person completing the documentation might miss out on a few columns wherein his/her signatures are required. In the event that the visa aspirant leaves any columns of the visa application or the corresponding document unanswered or misses out on certain specific technical documentation, his/her visa application would be rejected and he/ she will be asked to re-initiate the process of completing all the necessary formalities., which in turn would result in visa aspirant loosing his/her precious time and in some cases such a delay in completion of necessary formalities might culminate in visa aspirant postponing or altering his/her travel schedule. Any alteration or postponement of traveling plans normally involves paying certain amount of money as extra fee or penalty and the visa aspirant will have to bear those expenses in case of alteration or postponement of travel plan due to non availability of visa.

Since the process of applying for and obtaining a visa seems complicated for a person who is traveling abroad for the first time, such travelers normally approach travel agents in order to easily get through the process of applying for and obtaining a visa. The travel agents normally succeed in lessening the burden of the visa applicant but in the process extract a large sum of money from the visa applicant as the professional fee. Moreover, travel agents may not be fully competent with all the aspects governing the process of obtaining a visa. Moreover, a travel agent may not be fully aware of the minute technicalities involved in applying for a visa. The rules and regulations governing the grant of a visa to a particular country change from time to time and a travel agent may not be fully aware of the prevailing rules and regulations corresponding to every country. Therefore, the method of approaching a travel agent and making him complete all the necessary formalities on behalf of the visa applicant is an easy but expensive process and in following such a process the visa applicant is bound to invest a large amount of money which he could eventually have saved, had he not approached the travel agent.

Foreign consulates are often crowded with visa aspirant all throughout the year and most of the consulates witness an unprecedented increase in the number of visa applicants during holiday seasons. The consulates are normally not equipped to handle such a sudden increase in the number of visa applications and such ill preparedness on the part of consular staff makes the visa applicants wait in long queues just to submit their visa applications. Moreover, under such workloads the consular staff will not be able to provide any sort of assistance to people who are unaware of the procedure for obtaining a visa or the people who accidentally make mistakes in completing the necessary documentation or the people who are flying abroad for the first time. The conventional Visa application processing methods requires the Visa applicant to fill a large number of forms, fulfill the necessary administrative and legal formalities associated with Visa processing by visiting the visit the concerned foreign consulate or Visa office during office working hours and as such the Visa applicant has to take break from his own office work. Accordingly, there is felt a need to eliminate the challenges faced by the Visa applicant following conventional ways for Visa processing and provide a system for providing the convenience of time to end users to complete all formalities associated with Visa processing.

A number of Kiosk systems for enrolling applicants and processing applications submitted by the applicants are known in the prior art. However, most of the enrollment and application processing Kiosks known in the prior art fail to perform necessary verification of the user and the documents submitted by the user, the prior art enrollment and application processing kiosks fail to scrutinize applicants identity documents before enrollment. Further, the prior art enrollment and application processing Kiosks fail to check for impersonation. Furthermore, the prior art enrollment and application processing kiosks fail to ensure that the data captured thereby is as per the format required by the authorities. Still Further, the prior art enrollment and application processing Kiosks do not include any payment module for facilitating collection of fees from the user, even if a payment mode is available the payment mode fails to offer multiple payment options viz. cash, cheque, demand draft and credit/debit card . Furthermore, most of the kiosk systems fail to provide assistance to the applicant regarding filling of the application form, use of the kiosk and other formalities related to processing of the application. Still further, the prior art enrollment and application processing Kiosks fail to prevent mix up or loss of documents. Further, the prior art enrollment and application processing kiosks take time for processing the application and fail to provide information to the user regarding current status of user's application.

There are prior art documents that disclose use of kiosks for collecting data, enrolling applicants and processing applications.

For example, the US Published Patent Application US20110265162 (hereinafter referred to as Ί62 US Published Patent Application) having a priority date of 21^st April, 2010 discloses a holistic Risk Based Identity Establishment for eligibility determination in context of an application, in which assessment model for enrollment, identifying a risky individual based on certain rules that can be put on a system is disclosed. However, the Ί62 US Published Patent Application fails to provide an efficient and error proof means for collecting application documents.

Similarly, the US Published Patent Application US20050120227 (hereinafter referred to as '227 US Published Patent Application) having a priority date of 06^th December, 2001 discloses method and system for secure filtering of users of a public transport network allows only authorized pre-enrolled list of users to use the Public Transport Network, stores user data in a database and works as an access control system. The method and system for secure filtering of users of a public transport network is an access control system that does not perform other functions like collecting documents, and verifying documents etc.

The US Published Patent Application US20040133804 (hereinafter referred to as '804 US Published Patent Application) discloses a system and method for automated biometric data collection. The '804 US Published Patent Application discusses enrollment of passengers via an online form at an enrollment station and then authenticating the person to use the network. In case of the system and method for automated biometric data collection the user fills Bio data "Online" and the visits the center for enrollment with an ID proof, at the center the verification is done against what was stored online and then collects biometric data. The system and method for automated biometric data collection is operational in "online" mode only and does not collect applicant information offline. The system and method for automated biometric data collection disclosed in the '804 US Published Patent Application does not elaborate what standards will be followed for enrollment such as ICAO, NIFQ, NIST, ISO or as specified by the government, which may vary from Government to Government. The system and method for automated biometric data collection disclosed in the '804 US Published Patent Application fails to prevent impersonification and other such fraud attempts. Further, the system and method for automated biometric data collection performs collection of biometric data only and fail to provide an integrated one point setup for performing other associated activities.

The US Published Patent Application US20070198287 (hereinafter referred to as '287 US Published Patent Application) discloses a method and apparatus allowing individual to enroll in a known group, dispense tokens and rapidly identify members. The aforementioned method uses an ATM pin to authenticate the user and then takes facial biometric enrollment and issues a token to the user. The token dies after single use or after pre-defined time limit. Further, the aforementioned patent document discloses an identification system, but not an enrolment and application submission system.

Similarly, US Published Patent Application US20050258238 discloses an access system, but not an enrolment and application submission system.

The US Published Patent Application US 20040059953 (hereinafter referred to as '953 US Published Patent Application) discloses methods and systems for identity management. The aforementioned system is involved in the processing and handling of enrollment, authentication, and subsequent verification of the identity of passengers or workers in the transportation industry by pre-enrolling the individual to collect information. However, the system does not perform subsequent verification or risk management for the person, or any background checks to issue the token.

Similarly, the WIPO Published Patent Application WO2010099103 (hereinafter referred to as Ί03 WIPO Published Patent Application) discloses consular kiosks and methods, wherein an interface terminal is made available to a customer, the interface terminal is configured to receive input from the customer for the selected service type, scanning documents for storage and making payments through multiple payment modes. The consular kiosks disclosed in the Ί03 WIPO Published Patent Application scans associated documents which are sent to the consulate and then receives payments. However, the system disclosed in the Ί03 WIPO Published Patent Application fails under specific circumstances such as incase consular staff is available in an asynchronous mode, scanned documents are not acceptable, originals/self- attested photocopies are required instead of scanned documents. Further, managing of scanned documents is expensive for consulates. Further, such a system fails to provide means for efficiently collecting physical papers as required by consular services and returning said physical papers if required. However, the system fails to enroll the applicant as per predefined data enrolment standards, particularly, NIFQ, NIST, ICAO and ISO standards respectively.

The disclosure made in the US Published Patent Application US20080267456 (hereinafter referred to as '456 US Published Patent Application) is pertaining to collection of only biometric data and use of detection technology at public access networks such as ports, border crossing, admission to secure area, etc. Particularly, the '456 US Published Patent Application discloses access control mechanism but is not an enrolment and application submission system which require collection of paper and return of documents.

Therefore there is felt a need for a system that overcomes the above mentioned drawbacks and through which

• instant assistance can be provided to the user/applicant regarding filling of the application form, use of the kiosk and other formalities related to processing of the application;

• various payments related to the visa processing are payable using multiple payment options viz. cash, cheque, demand draft and credit/debit card;

• paper based visa applications can be quickly processed and subsequently verified;

• necessary verification of the user and the documents submitted by the user can be performed;

• documents collected are submitted to the authorities in organized and correct formats as desired by them.

• applicants identity documents are scrutinized before enrollment or after enrollment;

• impersonation is checked;

• the data captured by VISA application processing kiosks is as per the format required by the authorities;

• collection of fees from the user is facilitated before acceptance of enrollment and Visa Documents; • mix up or loss of documents is prevented;

• tracking of documents to ensure that the documents reach the correct officials and return to applicants post completing of the processing by the officials;

• time for processing the VISA application is reduced;

• current status of user's application is conveyed to the applicant;

• visa applicants can be efficiently assisted in completing the formalities in respect of obtaining visas;

• one stop solution in respect of processing and submission of visa applications can be provided; and

• the errors entailed in the submitted visa applications can be effectively identified; OBJECTS

Some of the objects of the present disclosure which at-least one embodiment is able to satisfy, are described herein below:

It is an object of the present disclosure to ameliorate one or more problems of the prior art or to at least provide a useful alternative.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system that facilitates quick processing of paper based visa applications.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a computerized kiosk that is user friendly.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a Kiosk system for facilitating Visa processing that provides instant assistance to the user/applicant regarding filling of the application form, use of the kiosk and other formalities related to processing of the application.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a Kiosk system for facilitating Visa processing that enables the user to make payments required for processing his application using multiple payment options viz. cash, cheque, demand draft and credit/debit card. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a Kiosk system for facilitating Visa processing that enables the user to authorize a third party, particularly a travel agent to fill the form and complete all the necessary formalities associated with the processing of the Visa application.

Further object of the present disclosure is to provide a computerized kiosk that efficiently assists the users in completing the formalities in respect of obtaining a visa with minimal or no human intervention.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system and method for processing visa applications that enables conveniently filling of visa applications at the comfort of applicants' choice of time and location.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a computerized kiosk that provides a one stop solution in respect of processing and submission of visa applications.

Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a computerized kiosk that enables payment collection, biometric enrollment and document tagging as an integrated one stop process.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that offers paperless solution involving a completely automated process for processing Visa applications which not only detects frauds but also seamlessly interacts with the visa applicants, computerized kiosks, travel agents, consulate offices in order to issue visas.

Another object is to create a system in which applicants could use to create Visa applications and submit at a Self Service Apparatus, that operates 24x7, in a minimal space, with little or no support manpower.

Still further object of the present disclosure is to provide a computerized kiosk which efficiently identifies the errors entailed in visa applications.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a computerized service kiosk which allows application submission round the year on all days, thereby, increasing service availability by at least 100% as compared to the present levels. Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a computerized service kiosk which effectively illustrates to the user all the steps involved in submission and subsequent processing of visa application.

SUMMARY

A data processing system for assisting a user in completing formalities associated with a predetermined procedure is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The data processing system includes a token issuing terminal for receiving data from the user/applicant and issue a token corresponding to the data input and a kiosk for receiving, processing and verifying information, documents, token issued by the token issuing terminal and user/applicant identifiers submitted there at. The Kiosk further facilitates transactions. The Kiosk includes a user interface, wherein the user interface includes a display screen and an input device. The kiosk further includes a reader, a non-repudiating module, an enrolment module, a data storage module, an alert module, a verification and authentication module, an envelope dispenser, at least one printer, a drop box module, a payment module, and an assistance module. The user interface guides and prompts a user to submit the information, documents and user identifiers required for completing formalities associated with a predetermined procedure. The display screen displays instructions, data fields, prompts the user/applicant to submit the information, documents and user identifiers, view inputs provided by the user/applicant and facilitate acknowledgment of inputs provided by the user/applicant. The input device facilitates submission of the information, editing of the information and providing feedback. The reader reads information, documents and user identifiers submitted by the user/applicant. The non-repudiating module captures signature, finger print and facial image of the user/applicant. The enrolment module enrolls the user/applicant in accordance with various standards. The data storage module stores data associated with the user/applicant. The alert module cautions concerned security officials in case of detection of fraudulent entries and fraudulent actions during enrollment by said enrollment module. The verification and authentication module verifies the user/applicant and the documents submitted by the user. . The envelope dispenser dispenses empty envelopes used for securely and safely holding documents to be submitted. The at least one printer prints labels that are used for labeling the envelopes. The at least one printer also prints receipts to tag said envelopes for facilitating identifying said envelopes. The drop box module facilitates depositing of labeled and filled envelopes. The payment module determines fees payable by the user and facilitates collection of fees from the user. The assistance module adapted to provide assistance to the user in relation to any of the formalities associated with the predetermined procedure..

Typically, the Kiosk operates in online mode in which the Kiosk application is connected to a terminal system via a communication network for facilitating procuring soft copies of required forms and online filling of the forms, and all the other steps for completing formalities associated with said predetermined procedure such as performing token scan for verification, providing instruction for facilitating payments, enrollment, organizing and submitting data etc. are performed at the Kiosk itself.

Alternatively, the kiosk operates in offline mode in which the Kiosk application is not connected to a communication network, and required forms are manually filled and deposited at the Kiosk, the applicant data is manually input at the Kiosk itself and all the other steps for completing formalities associated with said predetermined procedure are performed manually at the Kiosk.

Typically, the input device is a keyboard. Alternatively, the input device is a touch screen. Alternately the input device is a passport scanner.

In accordance with one embodiment, the input device is a barcode reader.

Generally, the reader is a bar code reader.

Alternatively, the reader is a card reader.

Typically, the enrollment module is a finger print biometric enrollment module that facilitates enrollment of user/applicant's finger print images as per NFIQ Compliant and supporting National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards by capturing images of Ten Fingerprints of Applicant which are NFIQ Compliant and supports NIST standard and by capturing fingerprint images of applicant supporting international standard as per government requirement. Specifically, the enrollment module is a photo enrollment module that facilitates enrollment of the user/applicant as per International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Alternatively, the enrollment module is an eye retina (IRIS) enrollment module that facilitates enrollment of the user/applicant as per government agencies standard.

Similarly, the non repudiating module is a signature, finger print and facial image capture module.

Typically, the assistance module is a communication module utilizing a two-way video conferencing via Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) or copper cable with remote screen viewing facility for enabling the user to communicate with remotely based personnel for clarifying queries related to VISA processing procedures.

Alternatively, the assistance module includes a manual help desk with personnel available thereat for enabling the user to enquire queries related to VISA processing procedures.

Typically, the at least one printer is a special printer that prints and tags the envelopes with identifying codes selected from a group consisting of symbols, barcodes and color codes used for facilitating identifying of the envelopes.

Generally, the at least one printer is a special printer that prints tamper proof receipts to be associated with the envelopes for tagging the envelopes and facilitating identifying of the envelopes.

Typically, the payment module is a cheque collection module.

Alternatively, the payment module is a cash/coin payment module that collects cash, coins from the user/applicant and is equipped with change dispensing option to dispense change.

Alternatively, the payment module can receive debit card and credit card payments.

Generally, the Kiosk further includes a sanitizing module configured thereon for dispensing sanitizer and tissue for maintaining sanitary conditions during use of the Kiosk. A method for assisting a user in completing formalities associated with a predetermined procedure is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method includes the steps of submitting data at a token issuing terminal and issuing a token corresponding to the data input at said token issuing terminal, guiding and prompting the user/applicant to submit the information, documents and user identifiers required for completing formalities associated with the predetermined procedure via instructions displayed at a display screen and an input device of a user interface, reading information, documents and user identifiers submitted by the user using a reader, signature, finger print and facial image of the user/applicant, enrolling the user/applicant as per different standards, storing data associated with the user in a data storage module, verifying the user and the documents submitted by the user by using a verification module by comparing data provided by the user with the data stored in the data storage and data provided during enrolment by enrolment module, dispensing empty envelopes/printed envelopes for securely and safely holding documents to be submitted by the user/applicant, printing labels used for labeling the envelopes and receipts used for tagging the envelopes for facilitating identifying said envelopes, depositing labeled and filled envelopes in a drop box module, collecting fees from the user using a payment module, and dispensing receipt informing the user regarding current status of user's application.

The method for assisting a user in completing formalities further includes the step providing assistance to the user in relation to any of the formalities associated with the predetermined procedure.

The method for assisting a user in completing formalities still further includes the step of alerting concerned security officials in case of detection of fraudulent entries.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

The disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGURE 1 illustrates a flow diagram depicting sequence of various steps involved in a method for processing VISA applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIGURE 2a-2b illustrates a block diagram depicting steps of a VISA processing method in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart illustrating the various steps involved in the method for Processing Visa applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 illustrates the different modes of operation of the system for processing VISA applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 5a illustrates an online mode of operation of the system for processing VISA applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 5b illustrates an offline mode of operation of the system for processing VISA applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 5c of the accompanying drawings, a schematic representation depicting another offline mode of operation of the system for processing VISA applications in which a travel agent fills the visa application forms, enters data of all the applications at an online terminal, approaches the kiosk makes payment and submits application at the kiosk on behalf of the applicant;

Figure 6 illustrates the block diagram representation of the various function performed by the Visa processing apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart depicting the logic on which the Visa processing apparatus functions in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 8 illustrates a schematic representation of a visa processing apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 9a illustrates a layout of the visa processing system in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 9b illustrates a layout of the gate system of the visa processing system of Figure 9a; Figure 10a illustrates a kiosk setup in accordance with a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the kiosk setup includes a kiosk and assembly area and drop box combination of the visa processing system;

Figure 10b illustrates a kiosk setup in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the kiosk setup includes a kiosk, assembly area and drop box combination and a kiosk submission desk of the visa processing system; and

Figure 10c illustrates a kiosk setup in accordance with a third embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the kiosk setup includes a kiosk, an assembly area and drop box combination, an offline terminal and a kiosk submission desk of the visa processing system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which do not limit the scope and ambit of the invention. The description provided is purely by way of example and illustration.

The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

The present disclosure envisages a system and method for processing visa applications.

The system and method for processing visa applications assists a user/applicant in completing formalities associated with Visa processing by utilizing a visa processing apparatus/ Kiosk. The Kiosk machine collects and manages visa applications including fee payments. The system and method for processing visa applications can be used for processing Visa applications for missions where visa application form filling is online and missions where visa application form filling is done manually. The system and method for processing visa applications not only performs collection and submitting of data to the Visa authorities but also provides an integrated one point setup for performing other associated activities such as enrolling an applicant for application processing as per the required standards, pre-collecting correct documents in efficient manner, handling large number of applicants, collecting processing fee, providing enrollment and payment receipts to applicants, collecting applicant non-repudiating signatures and providing a tracking mechanism which can integrate with client systems for facilitating returning of original documents. The system and method for processing visa applications is accessible 24X7, thereby providing the convenience of time to end users to complete all formalities associated with Visa processing. More particularly, the system and method for processing visa applications allows application submission round the year on all days, increasing service availability by at least 100% as compared to the present levels. The system and method for processing visa applications enables conveniently filling of visa applications at the comfort of applicants' choice of time and location The system and method for processing visa applications includes provision for collecting processing fees and any other fees associated with the Visa processing by providing multiple payment options, more particularly, the kiosk of the system for processing visa applications is equipped with a cash/coin payment module for collecting cash, coins from said user/applicant and is also equipped with change dispensing option to dispense change. The Kiosk of the system for processing visa applications can also receive debit card and credit card payments. The kiosk of the system for processing visa applications is equipped with a cheque collection module. The system for processing visa applications in accordance with the present disclosure is (ADA) complaint, facilitates self-docket creation, supports multiple missions and tasks, and facilitates in full Visa application submission processes.

The kiosk of the system for processing visa applications provides step-by-step usage instructions to provide informational and directional assistance to the users. Accordingly, the kiosk of the system for processing visa applications require minimal or no human intervention for processing visa applications. The Kiosk system is a new generation touch- point for clients to avail 24x7 services. The multi-media Kiosk system is loaded with collaborative step-by-step usage instructions to provide informational and directional assistance to the users. The kiosk provides integrated self-service solution that brings in new flexibilities for the missions and increases opportunities to create a parallel multi-channel approach. The Kiosk system can also be developed to manage end-to-end mass application collection for processes such as issuance of Passport, Licenses, and Citizen Cards. The Kiosk system enables conveniently filling of visa applications at the comfort of applicants' choice of time and location, particularly, the Kiosk system enables submitting of the applications even after office hours and even on weekends. Furthermore, the kiosk is configured taking into consideration the convenience of the applicant/user, particularly, the kiosk is configured in compliance with the guidelines provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 for convenient usage by disabled people.

The system and method for visa application collection creates an extended channel for diplomatic missions and governments to receive applications, particularly VISA applications from applicants. The method for processing VISA applications in accordance with the present disclosure involves four major steps, firstly request generation step takes place, thereafter collection of payment, enrollment and documents, thereafter processing the documents collected and finally the handover step. Figure 1 illustrates flow diagram depicting sequence of the various steps involved in the method for processing VISA applications, i.e. (A) request generation, (B) Collection, (C) Processing and (D) Handover.

1. Request Generation - The system starts by requesting for application submission, as a pre-phase on an Internet web-based form or an In-house Facility. A one-time barcode or any other token is generated for use at the apparatus.

2. Collection - The applicant appears at the apparatus, where they are identified and provide confirmation of request generated earlier. The Apparatus collects the payment, performs enrolment, generates security receipts, enables document assembly and Tagging, and collects assembled documents in a pre-defined or required arrangement.

3. Processing - The packed & tagged ready documents are collected from the apparatus and forwarded for backend processing and scrutiny. On successful scrutiny, the documents are sent to the responsible mission government.

4. Handover - On successful processing of the applications, the processed documents are received in the apparatus zone where they are re-distributed and handed over to the applicants.

More specifically, the request for application is generated as a pre-phase by issuing a unique one-time token, identifier either over an Internet web-based form or an In-house facility. The applicant next appears at the Visa processing apparatus, where the applicant is identified by using the identifier and provided confirmation on request generated earlier. The applicant uses the Visa Processing Apparatus to submit his/her documents, the process commences with the token being read, which when read, displays details, receives acknowledgment, accepts payment, performs verification checks of the applicant, captures International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) compliant facial image, and enrolls applicant finger print images which are NFIQ Compliant and supports National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The Visa processing apparatus further collects the payment, performs enrolment, generates security receipts, enables document assembly and tagging, and collects assembled documents in a pre-defined or required arrangement. The Documents are Tagged and assembled and accepted by the dropping area and a tamper proof acknowledgement is provided to the applicant. The applications are further processed on scrutiny for their authenticity and sent to the client government. All processed applications are received from the client government for re-distribution to the applicants. On successful processing of the applications, the processed documents are received in the apparatus zone where they are redistributed and handed over to the applicants. Automated Email and Short Message Service (SMS) alerts are generated and sent to the applicant, these emails and SMS alert provide information such as status of their application to the applicant while processing the application request.

FIGURE 2a-FIGURE 2b illustrates a block diagram depicting steps of a VISA processing method in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGURE 2a-FIGURE 2b, the step of collection and processing the inputs provided by the applicant broadly involves the steps of input of visa information, collection of fees via the payment module of the visa processing apparatus, biometric enrollment of the applicant by the visa processing apparatus, collection and tagging of documents by the visa processing apparatus and the return of the passport. The system envisaged by the present disclosure includes a software application, typically a software application that can be accessed using the internet connectivity. Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart illustrating the various steps involved in the method for Processing Visa applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The method for Processing Visa applications in accordance with an embodiment includes the sequentially following the step of passport and identity verification 31, barcode scanning 32, application retrieval 33, making payments 34 using multi-payment options, printing docket labels 35, doing barometric enrollment 36, ICAO photo capture 37, docket assembly and submission 38, and finally ICR generation. In accordance with the present disclosure, the system for processing VISA applications can be operated in different modes, particularly, offline mode and online mode. The Kiosk machine can operate in online and offline module that are customized to enable the diplomatic missions to complete the entire visa process lifecycle effectively and securely. Figure 4 illustrates the different modes of operation of the system for processing VISA applications. The system and method for processing visa applications can be used for processing Visa applications for missions where visa application form filling is online and missions where visa application form filling is done manually. In case the applicant is dealing with missions where visa application form filling is online, the user uses an online terminal of the online mode of operation of the system for processing VISA applications for accessing the mission website and filling an online visa application form. In case the applicant is dealing with missions where visa application form filling is done manually, the applicant collects the physical application forms, manually filled the basic applicant data. Thereafter, in both cases i.e. online mode and offline mode, the applicant approaches the Kiosk location for making payments, enrolling biometric data, creating application docket, and its final submission.

More particularly, the visa processing apparatus can perform the collection step, particularly, the collection of fees, applicant enrollment and the collection of forms and documents in online mode as well as offline mode.

Referring to Figure 5a of the accompanying drawings, a schematic representation depicting an online mode of operation of the system for processing VISA applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In the online mode the applicant goes online and fills his bio information as required for issuance of a visa; this module has rules to check for gratis, Visa type, Visa category, Visa fee etc. Thereafter, the applicant fills Visa form as required by the Government. The applicant may download the various forms from government websites and thereafter fill the forms online as illustrated in step 1 ' of the Figure 5a. Thereafter, the applicant approaches the kiosk 100 and fills visa check list and declarations, verifies the bio details, makes payments, submits application at the Kiosk illustrated as step 2', thereafter the documents are assembled in the docket illustrated as step 3', the documents are scrutinized illustrated as step 4', and submitted in the drop box 5'. More specifically, the applicant is prompted to accept certain mandatory and critical conditions as might be required for the issue of Visa. Thereafter, the applicant prints visa form, check list and declarations as prescribed by the Government and prints bar-coded identification page with the help of a printer installed in the visa processing apparatus. Finally, the applicant makes payment. In one embodiment, the visa processing apparatus is equipped with an online payment module.

Referring to Figure 5b of the accompanying drawings, a schematic representation depicting an offline mode of operation of the system for processing VISA applications in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In the offline mode the applicant manually fills the Visa application forms illustrated as step 11 and submits the same at the visa processing apparatus 100. In the offline mode the applicant only does basic data entry using the keyboard and the touch screen 16, makes payment, submits application, submits a scanned copy of passport using the scanner 17, fills bio-information at the visa processing apparatus/kiosk illustrated as step 12. The applicant may fill bio-information at on a computing device in the apparatus zone. The applicant assembles the documents in the docket illustrated as step 13, the documents are scrutinized illustrated as step 14, and submitted in the drop box 15. In this case the applicant uses normal paper application as issued by the mission. The applicant prints the bar-coded identification page.

Referring to Figure 5c of the accompanying drawings, a schematic representation depicting another offline mode of operation of the system for processing VISA applications in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, wherein a travel agent manually fills the visa application forms on behalf of the applicant illustrated as step 21 in the Figure 5c, the travel agent enters data of all the applications as required by the mission /operator at an online terminal or a at Kiosk Co-located terminal illustrated as step 22, wherein the terminal is has a TFT screen and a keyboard for facilitating entering data of all applications and a printer for printing barcodes. The applicant approaches the kiosk along with the barcodes printed at the terminal and makes payment and submits application at the kiosk 100 on behalf of the applicant illustrated as step 23, thereafter the applicant assembles the documents in the docket illustrated as step 24, the documents are scrutinized illustrated as step 25, and submitted in the drop box 26. The travel agent submitting forms on the behalf of the applicant can be checked out for authorization from the applicant, step 27 illustrated in Figure 5c and scrutinized at step 25. The Visa application processing system is user friendly, even in case of being used by travel agents. More specifically, the Visa application processing system enables the travel agent to perform application submission and payments for several applications together through easy grouping of applications. Further, the Visa application processing system enables the travel agent to use of the kiosk system to drop-off bulk application during work and off- work hours.

The kiosk based Visa application processing system is also mission friendly. More specifically, the deployment of the kiosk of the Visa application processing system is convenient and cost-effective, and can integrate with mission's business logic that can be unified with its barcode based visa tracking system. The kiosk based Visa application processing system reduces the work load on the human resource of the mission and reduces dependency of the mission on it's workforce. As such the Kiosk system is capable of freeing up human staff to provide services for special and difficult situations. The kiosk based Visa application processing system can be used as an alternate or simultaneous service channel that can reduce overheads and improve customer and employee satisfaction. The kiosk based Visa application processing system enables the mission to expand it's reach with the Kiosk system as it can be effortlessly customised, deployed, managed and maintained.

The kiosk based Visa application processing system can reform visa application process by increasing user convenience, operational efficiency and overall delivery experience. The kiosk based Visa application processing system can be customized to provide and manage varied challenging situations faced by missions globally.

The payment module of the Visa application processing system is capable of accepting large sum of money in a single transaction. The payment module can accept different types of currency, more specifically, the payment module can accept over 50 currency types. The payment module includes a storage for storing currency and is equipped with an auto check system that automatically checks for counterfeit and damaged notes. The payment module has provision for collecting partial payments during unexpected eventualities. The payment module can collect cash in tamper proof pouches to prevent retrieval frauds.

The visa processing apparatus performs other functions apart from collection of fees, applicant enrollment and the collection of forms and documents. More specifically, the visa processing apparatus is provided with dedicated modules for performing the various tasks such as acknowledgement, verification, enrollment and tagging of the documents submitted by the applicant. For example, the visa processing apparatus includes acknowledgement module, a payment module, a verification module, an enrollment module, a tagging module, a document assembly module, a drop box module, and an upload module. Further, the visa processing apparatus works in conjunction with other systems such as remote apparatus, backend operation system, Visa office(s), a Visa engine, a logistics center, an apparatus zone and a communication module. The backend operation system is empowered with sophisticated support module.

After the collection step performed by the visa processing apparatus, particularly, the collection of fees, applicant enrollment and the collection of forms and documents performed by the visa processing apparatus operating in either of online or offline mode, the applicant receives acknowledgement.

In the acknowledgement step, i.e. step 3 as illustrated in Figure 2a, the applicant visits the Visa processing apparatus location, scans the bar-coded identification page at the Visa processing apparatus and confirms his input information. The system also calculates the exact mission and service fee that is applicable for the applicant and that is to be paid at the apparatus for processing their Visa application.

After receiving acknowledgement and payment details the applicant makes the payment using the payment module of the Visa processing apparatus. More specifically, after confirmation of the input data the applicant is prompted to pay for mission and service fee. A number of payment options are available to make the payment, for example, the applicant is provided with cash payment with change dispensing option or pay by card or deposit cheque options. Post payments a receipt is issued, cash payments are also supported by partial payment and refund options.

Apart from the payment, the Visa processing apparatus further includes verification module for performing the verification of the applicant. The verification module of the Visa processing apparatus prompts the applicant to scan their passport or national identity card by using a scanner provided at the Visa processing apparatus. Thereafter, a camera installed at the Visa processing apparatus captures photographic image of the applicant and performs a facial match. The apparatus is provided with means for automatically detecting the presence of more than one individual before the camera and is capable of raising and alarm or stop the operation in case of detection of more than one individual before the camera, thereby restricting enrolment of the biometrics by one applicant only. The verification module may further make use of environmental controls such as single entry doors, remote monitoring and physical verification for further enhancing the verification step that is performed before the enrollment.

Apart from the verification of the applicant by the verification module, the Visa processing apparatus also includes enrollment module for performing enrollment of the applicant. The enrollment module enrolls the user/applicant in accordance with various standards. The enrollment module may be a finger print biometric enrollment module that facilitates enrollment of the user/applicant as NFIQ Compliant and supporting National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. The enrollment module may be a photo enrollment module that facilitates enrollment of the user/applicant as per International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. The enrollment module may be an eye retina (IRIS) enrollment module that facilitates enrollment of the user/applicant as per government agencies standard. The enrollment module of the Visa processing system uniquely identifies applicants using facial recognition, provides 360 degree monitoring using video analytics to track users, and is enabled with an auto shutdown feature. The photo enrollment module utilizes intelligent data capture algorithms enable secure and accurate applicant photo capture. As the applicant approaches the Visa processing apparatus for verification the applicant has to scan their passport into the special passport scanner where it matches the facial image of the applicant to the photograph on the passport for verification of the authenticity of the same person performing the biometrics. In case of a miss-match, it shall not allow the applicant to enroll the biometrics. The verification module may further make use of the national ID card used as an insert in to apparatus to verify the applicant before taking his enrollment.

The Kiosk 100 of the Visa processing system is also provided with various safety features for preventing frauds and misuse. For example, the Kiosk 100 is provided with advanced user recognition systems for applicant authentication and non-repudiation. The Kiosk 100 is equipped with 24x7 monitoring systems with automated alarms for software and hardware. The Kiosk 100 is enabled with an automated and remote emergency shutdown capability. Further, the operations of the Kiosk 100 can be controlled remotely through secure channels over the internet. The Kiosk 100 is provided with a provision to block any unauthorised user to access the visa application module. The Kiosk 100 of the Visa processing system is equipped with 24 x 7 video and data logging for all activities performed on the kiosk machine by applicants, staff, and the maintenance team. After matching of the photograph of the applicant on the passport with the image of the applicant captured by the camera of the Visa processing apparatus, the applicant is enrolled for National Institute of Standards and Technology (NSIT) complaint 10 finger biometric capture, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) complaint facial image capture and ISO Compliant iris capture. The enrollment procedure can be configured to meet the requirements of the Government, which could vary from Government to Government. The Visa processing apparatus further includes a user interface that has a display screen for displaying instructions to the applicant during the enrollment process. In case the visa applicant still needs any assistance, the same may be provided by a remote two-way voice and video assistance enabled at the Visa processing apparatus. The assistant can also view the apparatus user interface while providing support to the applicant. More specifically, speaker and headphones are made available for communicating with assisting personnel. The Visa processing apparatus is also equipped with hand sanitizer for meeting applicant's hygiene needs after using the speaker and headphones.

The Visa processing apparatus further includes a tagging module for tagging all the documents submitted by the applicant during collection step. The tagging of the documents assists in tracking the documents and tracing the documents. In order to further assist the tracking of the documents, the documents submitted by the user are tagged with common barcode that is integrated with the mission's barcode series. The tagging module utilizes mission driven tracking series or code, such as mission barcode series for identifying and tracking the documents submitted by the applicant. The tagging module may also use identification colors and symbols as required by the mission. In accordance with another embodiment, the Visa processing apparatus shall capture video snippets of each action at the apparatus and tag it against the applicant or application token.

The Visa processing apparatus further includes a printing module for printing receipts, tagging labels or identifier tokens, document envelopes and special security receipts that are tamper proof and cannot be copied. The printer module provides an integrated transaction acknowledgement and application tracking system and includes adhesive label printing for providing applicant tag and receipt printing for providing transaction acknowledgement, both enabled to print barcodes and graphics. The printer module is capable of adhesive label printing for providing applicant tag and receipt printing for providing transaction acknowledgement, both enabled to print barcodes and graphics. The applicant shall use dockets or tamper proof envelopes to assemble their Visa supporting documents as per instructions displayed at the display of the apparatus and thereafter tag and print the envelopes to facilitate identification of the documents corresponding to the applicant.

In order to assimilate the documents as per format and requirements the applicant may use the document assembly module. The document assembly module assists the applicant in assembling all the documents which need to be submitted along with the Visa form and original passport in a predefined sequence. This is done via guidelines displayed at the display of the user interface or is automated. In some cases physical verification of the documents may be performed before submitting the documents.

The drop box module configured in the Visa processing apparatus receives the verified, assembled and tagged documents. The applicant drops the verified, tagged and assembled documents in the drop box provided by the apparatus and collects the application submission receipt from the apparatus. Post submission, an operations person shall open the drop box and scan the token of each application at the time of pick up.

The Visa processing apparatus further includes an upload module for uploading additional documents that are not submitted in physical form and that may be required by the missions/ Visa office. In case the mission accepts scanned copies all documents may be in the form of scanned copies of original documents barring the passport. The upload module shall be designed to auto size the documents with various file formats and have an option to preview and size to manually meet the backend file size requirements. These uploads can be done via a software interface run online and could be done from any location. The uploaded documents shall run through an engine to automatically detect document forgery and raise alarm in case of manipulation being detected. The uploaded documents may be accessed by an internal trained representative who shall check the documents for forgery by making use of various software tools. In case of any discrepancy in the uploaded documents, true copies or originals could be asked for. The documents uploaded at the upload module may be reviewed by a backend team for correctness and completeness. Based on the input of the backend team the next steps could be initiated, if all is okay only the passport and electronic signature could be asked for at the Kiosk. The uploaded documents shall be also available to the Visa officer to review by inputting the token number corresponding to a particular applicant in their system. In case of non-physical submission, the uploaded documents shall be sent to the mission electronically post non-repudiating electronic signature made by the applicant on the documents electronically.

The Visa processing apparatus may utilize a remote apparatus that may be used by the applicant for signing on their applications electronically in a non-repudiated mode. This shall be done on a remote apparatus by the applicants who shall first retrieve their applications by scanning or inputting their bar-code number or any other identifier token assigned to them. The remote apparatus shall be hosted at different locations or shall be a portable device with wired or wireless communications. The Visa processing apparatus may further include a gate PC or a computing system for assisting the applicant in checking the validity of their barcode or token and only if cleared the applicant can proceed to fully operate the apparatus. In case the token is not valid or does not exist, the applicant may use the computing system to input information and obtain a fresh valid token that may be used for identifying the applicant in all future interactions with the Visa processing apparatus.

After all the documents that are required for processing the Visa application has been collected from the applicant, the Visa application along with these documents are transferred to the backend operations team, Figure 2b illustrates the various operations performed by the · backend operations team, wherein at the backend office the application will be scanned for the token identification. The back end operations team scrutinizes the applications, and categorizes as accept, hold or reject. In case the documents are uploaded via the uploading module, the uploaded documents are screened electronically. All the applications shall be scanned for their tokens before being sent to the Visa officer or Embassy, where the visa officer may accept, hold or reject the application based on analysis of the documents submitted by the applicant and the documents uploaded by the applicant. All applications shall be scanned for their tokens at entry arid before exiting from the Visa officer's office. There shall be provided a communication module in the form of an online communications channel between the Visa officer and the backend office to handle issues such as seeking applicant clarifications, additional documents etc.

After being analyzed and categorized by visa officer the Visa application is directed to a Visa engine, where all successful applications are issued Visa via a software engine activated by the Visa officer or physically printing on pre-printed Visa stickers to be pasted on the passport. The processed Visa application or the passport are put in a sealed tamperproof envelope and sent to a logistics center that couriers the applications that are required to be couriered. The logistics center also. facilities in handling over the applications to the applicant by sending the applications to the apparatus zone or any other designated office. All applications are scanned for their tokens at the entry to the logistics center and before exiting from the logistics center. At the apparatus zone, the applications or the passports or paper visa shall be handed over to the applicants against return of original application submission receipt or any other acknowledgement. All applications are scanned for their tokens at the entry to the apparatus zone and before exiting from the apparatus zone.

The Visa processing apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure includes a reporting module which is adapted to provide the details including the number of visa applications submitted, total fees collected, total service fee collected and the like. The reports generated by the computerized kiosk also include the comments provided by the visa scrutinizing officials. The reports are provided by the computerized kiosk on a daily, monthly, weekly and yearly basis. The reports provided by the computerized kiosk typically include views such as financial view and mission view. The financial view depicts the financial data such as cost for processing a visa application, margin of profit corresponding to a visa application and the like. The mission view depicts the visa application related information including the status of the visa application, fee collected and the like.

Figure 6 illustrates the block diagram representation of the various functions performed by the Visa processing apparatus 100, i.e. (Α') Payments, (Β') Enrolment, (C) Printing, (D') Document assembly and (Ε') Document Drop. The Visa processing apparatus 100 is equipped with different equipment for assisting the Visa processing apparatus 100 in performing these functions.

Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart depicting the logic on which the Visa processing apparatus functions.

More specifically, as an applicant scans the pre-printed barcode or any other token in the apparatus 100, the apparatus 100 checks for the validity of the scanned token, identifies it for the appropriate mission with relevant associated details. Only if barcode is valid it moves further. Thereafter, the apparatus 100 displays the applicant details such as personal information, visa category or type and mission and service fee that needs to be deposited for processing of the visa application. Thereafter, system asks for confirmation from the applicant on whether he is willing to proceed further for his visa application. On confirmation from the applicant, the system moves further to payment option. Thereafter, the system displays multiple payment options to select from, such as by cash, by credit/debit card/prepaid card, or by depositing drafts such as cheque/banker's draft/money Order etc. The applicant makes payment of the defined amount by any of the above mentioned instruments/options. Thereafter, the system checks if the defined amount is paid completely and successfully by the applicant. Further actions are permitted, only upon successful payment; If the payment is made in cash, the system provides the balance returnable amount as change where applicable to the applicant and also prints transaction receipt and labels. Thereafter, the system checks multiple presence detection. If there is more than one person at the apparatus, it shall not go further. The system is intelligent to give exemptions for children or old age persons. Thereafter, the applicant scans their passport or any other government recognized photo identity card such as driving license, voter identification, etc. and performs a real time facial match. If the real time facial match is successful, the system shall proceed with subsequent operations. The system scans and enrolls the 10 fingers of the applicant in pre-defined ICAO or any other government required format and generates a special tamper proof security transaction receipt on successful enrolment. Thereafter, the system captures the facial image of the applicant in pre-defined ICAO or any other government required format and generates a special security transaction receipt on successful enrolment. The system proceeds with the enrollment of the applicant by scanning and enrolling the IRIS of the both eyes of the applicant in pre-defined or any other government required format and generates a special security transaction receipt on successful enrolment. The system completes the enrollment of the applicant by enrolling the signature of applicant and generating a special security transaction receipt on successful enrolment. Upon successful enrollment of the applicant, special tags with unique token are generated and are categorized in varied formats as required by the client government or mission. The special tags are categorized based on mission series type, token, color or symbol. The documents submitted by the applicant are directed to the documents assembly module that enables the applicant in assembling of the documents in a predefined sequence in a manual or automated mode. Finally, a tamper proof and fire proof drop box configured on the apparatus 100 accepts applications in manual or automated mode. Referring to Figure 8, the apparatus 100 of the Visa processing system equipped with different equipment for assisting the Visa processing apparatus 100 is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The body of the kiosk 100 is made of a strong frame structure, thereby making the kiosk 100 vandal-proof and fire proof, further configuration of the kiosk 100 is such that it allows quick assembling and disassembling of the kiosk machine 100. Further, easy Software plug-ins are provided to enable quick deployment of the kiosk machine 100. The Visa processing system accepts physical applications or electronic applications via the visa processing apparatus or a Kiosk, which is a combination of the apparatus and other electro mechanical systems. The visa processing apparatus 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated in Figure 6 and broadly includes a touch screen 101, a photo capturing camera 102, a microphone 103, a speaker 104, a keyboard 105, a finger print scanner 106, a pass port reader 107, a signature pad 108, a credit card / debit card acceptor 109, an identity card reader 110, a cheque acceptor 111, a bulk cash acceptor 112, a cash storage 113, a cash dispenser 114, a coin acceptor 115, a coin dispenser 116, a desk space 117 for facilitating reading and writing, a barcode scanner 118, a barcode beam area 119, a collecting rack 120, a drop box 121, a counter 122, a document scanner 123, a label printer 124, a security printer 125, an iris enrolment device 126, a sanitizing assembly 127 and an additional touch screen 128.

The touch screen 101 enables the applicant to make selections and input data and feedback as and when prompted to do so. The photo capturing camera 102 is a digital camera that captures a live color photo of the applicant and assures that the quality of the image captured is accordance to ICAO standard. This is done my making use of software which will automatically detect wrong images e.g. poor light, goggles, smile etc. and send a message to the user to correct. In case the image is correct the system will capture the image. To deal with correct height of applicants and auto detecting motorized camera assembly shall be used that will automatically adjust to the correct line of sight of the applicant. The microphone 103 and speaker 104 enables the applicant to communicate with the remote assistance center that assists the applicant in filling the forms and other activities required for Visa application processing. The keyboard 105 enables the applicant in filling the forms are input additional data. The keyboard 105 may be replaced by an additional touch screen for providing ease of use to the applicant. The finger print scanner 106 captures the 10 fingerprints of the applicant in a 4-4-2 fingerprint scanning sequence. However, the application gives user the ease to select the number of fingers to be captured as per the business workflow. The fingerprint images captured by fingerprint scanner 106 are NIST Finger print Image Quality (NFIQ) compliant and supports NIST standard, and can be configured as per Government requirement. The images are auto enhanced using the regulatory approved quality imaging solution and are further sent to the Government database via a secured link. The passport reader 107 captures machine readable information of the passport, which is used to perform facial match and also collect bio information to ease the applicant's efforts to input data in offline mode operation. The passport reader 107 facilitates automated data entry. The signature pad 108 is used to capture live signature of the applicant and ensures non- repudiation. The credit card / debit card acceptor 109, the cheque acceptor 111, the bulk cash acceptor 112, the cash dispenser 114, the coin acceptor 115, the coin dispenser 116 facilitate transactions and enable the applicant to pay the desired fees. The cheque acceptor 111 accepts the cheques and also has a capability for associating the cheques with the applicant's barcode numbers. The cash storage 113 stores currency notes in a tamper proof box, and includes a storage bag feature to prevent cash leakage. This section shall be secured to prevent vandalism. It shall also have alarms and special access control to the cash box by way of smart cards, pin code, etc. The bar code beam area 119 prompts the applicant to scan or feed their bar code number for facilitating identification of the applicant. The rack 120 facilitates collection of the dockets and tamper proof envelope for document submission and return envelopes for passport return. The drop box 121 is tamper proof and fire proof and can accept applications in manual and automated mode. The drop box 121 is also provided with a counter 122 for counting the number of applications / dockets dropped in the drop box. The drop box 121 is further provided with a bar code or token reader to be used by an operator who collects the dockets, for scanning of the dockets before collecting them from the drop box 121. The document scanner 123 can be used for uploading additional documents that may be required in the Visa processing process, the document scanner 123 can also be placed separately outside the apparatus 100 and can operate independently in conjunction with the online application. The label printer 124 can be used for printing bar coded labels that can be sticked on the dockets for manual mode. The label printers 124 may be replaced with envelop printers that can dispense printed and labeled documents and pass port return envelopes. The printer 124 prints receipts, typically against every transaction such as payments, biometrics etc. The security printer 125 issues tamper proof receipts as a proof of application acceptance, proof of biometrics enrollment etc. The iris enrollment device 126 includes an iris camera that captures both iris images as per international standard supporting ISO formats. The application is capable of configuring it and adapting as per Government required standard. The sanitizing assembly 127 hosts a sanitizer and tissues, to help applicants wash hand after they have used the biometric devices or clean the biometric devices before use. The additional touch screen 228 is provided for ease of operation and to capture Applicant's data required for submitting the application.

Figure 9a illustrates layout of the Visa processing system for assisting a user/applicant in completing formalities associated with Visa processing by utilizing the visa processing apparatus 100. The system includes a frame structure 151, a door 152, an access control device 153, a plurality of monitoring cameras 154 for front view, a monitoring camera 155 for capturing applicant's finger's view, a monitoring camera 156 for capturing a back view of the applicant and a remote monitoring arrangement 157 to be accessed and remotely monitor the entire process.

Figure 9b illustrates a gate system of the visa processing system. The gate system includes an entrance computer screen 162, a plurality of offline terminals 163, the offline terminal 163 includes a user interface, particularly, a touch screen, a keyboard for enabling an offline applicant to input data before proceeding to the Visa Apparatus 100. The offline terminals 163 further includes a barcode reader, a passport scanner and a printer. The offline applicant can scan the first and last page of the passport on any one of the offline terminals 163, and the scanned copies of the first and last page of the passport can in turn be automatically populated on the offline application. The offline applicant may use the offline terminals 163 to select services required, select mission, visa type and category and the associated fee, the offline application shall then provide the applicant an printed barcode or token to be used at the Via processing apparatus 100, in case of the apparatus 100 is to be used by third part service providers to collect applications from Mission online portals on behalf of the applicant. Further, the applicants may use the offline terminal 163 to first check if the data has reached the Visa processing apparatus systems and then proceed. In case the data has not reached the Visa processing apparatus systems, the offline applicant may use the offline terminal 163 to input necessary data and obtain barcode/token to operate the Visa processing apparatuslOO. The gate system for the visa processing apparatus 100 further includes an enquiry desk or KSO 164. The personnel for assisting the applicant is made available 24X7 at the enquiry desk 164 for enabling the user/applicant to enquire queries related to VISA processing procedures. The computerized kiosk 164 further includes a KSO (Kiosk Submission Officer) desk which can be utilized to scrutinize the documents submitted by the applicants. The KSO desk typically includes a mini laptop which executes a verification application logically linked to the application executed on the computerized kiosk. The KSO desk is primarily utilized to check the veracity of the documents submitted by the visa applicants. Typically, the purpose of the KSO desk is to provide answers to the queries raised by the visa applicants. In certain circumstances the KSO can issue the final application submission receipt after due scrutiny, while operating the Visa processing apparatus 100 in semi-automated mode and in circumstances where there is higher risk of fraud.

The Kiosk based system for processing Visa application can be combined with the existing client processes, for creating an end-to-end seamless process flow, offering integration and consistency across kiosk, web arid off-line channels of visa application submission. The Kiosk System operationalizes Web based data submission, Kiosk based data submission, Application fees collection, Fees accounting and reconciliation, Biometric enrolments, Application document submission.

Figure 10a illustrates a kiosk setup 1000 in accordance with a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the kiosk setup 1000 includes a kiosk 100 and assembly area and drop box combination 166. The assembly area of the assembly area and drop box combination 166 is used to assemble documents in docket, while the drop box of the assembly area and drop box combination 166 is used for submitting the documents required to be submitted for processing the Visa application.

Figure 10b illustrates a kiosk setup 2000 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the kiosk setup 2000 includes a kiosk 100, assembly area and drop box combination 166 and a kiosk submission desk 164 of the visa processing system. Generally, the kiosk setup 2000 is divided into two sections using a partition, curtain or door. The kiosk 100 is disposed at one side of the partition, while the assembly area and drop box combination 166 and the Kiosk submission desk 164 is disposed at the other side of the partition and both sides of the partition are accessible to the applicant or the travel agent authorized by the applicant. A portion of the partition exactly opposite to the Kiosk is provided with a white background to facilitate photo capture according to standards, particularly, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. The assembly area of the assembly area and drop box combination 166 is used to assemble documents in docket, while the drop box of the assembly area and drop box combination 166 is used for submitting the documents required to be submitted for processing the Visa application. The kiosk submission desk 164 is utilized to scrutinize the documents submitted by the applicants. The kiosk submission desk 164 typically includes a mini laptop which executes a verification application logically linked to the application executed on the computerized kiosk. The kiosk submission desk 164 is primarily utilized to check the veracity of the documents submitted by the visa applicants. Typically, the purpose of the kiosk submission desk 164 is to provide answers to the queries raised by the visa applicants. It can also be used to communicate with the applicant in Video conferencing mode, this desk can also see the screen of the Kiosk and observe the applicant via 3-4 camera's giving him a 270 degrees or more view, he can especially view the applicants fingers during enrollment and direct him and at the same time m it can activate the motorized Kiosk camera to move up or down as per the applicants height, ensuring a correct ICAO image capture. In certain circumstances the kiosk submission desk 164 can issue the final application submission receipt after due scrutiny, while operating the Visa processing apparatus 100 in semi-automated mode and in circumstances where there is higher risk of fraud.

Figure 10c illustrates a kiosk setup 3000 in accordance with a third embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the kiosk setup 3000 includes a kiosk 100, assembly area and drop box combination 166, a kiosk submission desk 164, and an offline terminal 163 of the visa processing system. Generally, the kiosk setup 3000 is divided into two sections using a partition, curtain or door. The kiosk 100 is disposed at one side of the partition, while the assembly area and drop box combination 166, the kiosk submission desk 164, an offline terminal 163 are disposed at the other side of the partition and both sides of the partition are accessible to the applicant. A portion of the partition exactly opposite to the Kiosk is provided with a white background to facilitate photo capture according to standards, particularly, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. The offline terminal 163 includes a user interface, particularly, a touch screen and a keyboard for enabling an offline applicant to input data before proceeding to the Visa Apparatus 100. The offline terminals 163 further includes a barcode reader, a passport scanner and a printer. The offline applicant can scan the first and last page of the passport on any one of the offline terminals 163, and the scanned copies of the first and last page of the passport can in turn be automatically populated on the offline application. The offline applicant may use the offline terminals 163 to select services required, select mission, visa type and category and the associated fee, the offline application shall then provide the applicant an printed barcode or token to be used at the Via processing apparatus 100, incase of the apparatus 100 is to be used by third part service providers to collect applications from Mission online portals on behalf of the applicant.

TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS

The technical advancements of the present disclosure include the following:

• present disclosure provides a system that facilitates quick processing of paper based visa applications;

• present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk that is easy to use and user friendly;

• present disclosure is provides a Kiosk system for facilitating Visa processing that provides instant assistance to the user/applicant regarding filling of the application form, use of the kiosk and other formalities related to processing of the application;

• present disclosure is provides a Kiosk system for facilitating Visa processing that enables the user to make payments required for processing application using multiple payment options viz. cash, cheque, demand draft and credit/debit card;

• present disclosure provide a Kiosk system for facilitating Visa processing that enables the user to authorize a third party, particularly a travel agent to fill the form and complete all the necessary formalities associated with the processing of the Visa application;

• present disclosure provides a computerized kiosk that efficiently assists the users in completing the formalities in respect of obtaining a visa with minimal or no human intervention;

• present disclosure provides a computerized kiosk that enables conveniently filling of visa applications at the comfort of applicants' choice of time and location; present disclosure provides a computerized kiosk that is configured in compliance with the guidelines provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 for convenient usage by disabled people; present disclosure offers a computerized service kiosk that provides a one stop solution in respect of processing and submission of visa applications; present disclosure provides a computerized kiosk that enables payment collection, biometric enrollment and document tagging as an integrated one stop process; present disclosure provides a system that offers paperless solution involving a completely automated process for processing Visa applications which not only detects frauds but also seamlessly interacts with the visa applicants, computerized kiosks, travel agents, consulate offices in order to issue visas; present disclosure provides a system for processing visa applications that utilize at a Self Service Apparatus, that operates 24x7, and requires a minimal space, with little or no support manpower; present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which efficiently identifies the errors entailed in visa applications; present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which effectively illustrates to the user all the steps involved in submission and subsequent processing of visa applications; present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which performs necessary verification of the user and the documents submitted by the user. present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which scrutinizes applicants identity documents before enrollment; present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which checks impersonation; • present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which captures data as per the format required by the authorities;

• present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which facilitates collection of fees from the user;

• present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which prevents mix up or loss of documents;

• present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which requires less time for processing the VISA application; and

• present disclosure provides a computerized service kiosk which facilities in conveying current status of user's application to the user.

The numerical values given of various physical parameters, dimensions and quantities are only approximate values and it is envisaged that the values higher or lower than the numerical value assigned to the physical parameters, dimensions and quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure and the claims unless there is a statement in the specification to the contrary.

Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

The use of the expression "at least" or "at least one" suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.

Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application. The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Claims

Claims:

1. A data processing system for assisting a user/applicant in completing formalities associated with a predetermined procedure, said system comprising:

• a token issuing terminal adapted to receive data from the user/applicant and issue a token corresponding to the data input;

• a Kiosk adapted to receive, process and verify information, documents, token issued by said token issuing terminal and user/applicant identifiers submitted there at, said kiosk further adapted to facilitate transactions, said kiosk comprising:

o a user interface adapted to guide and prompt a user/applicant to submit the information, documents and user identifiers required for completing formalities associated with a predetermined procedure, said user interface comprising:

^■ a display screen adapted to display instructions and data fields, prompt said user/applicant to submit information, documents and user identifiers and view inputs provided by said user/applicant and facilitate acknowledgment of inputs provided by said user/applicant; and

^■ an input device adapted to facilitate submission of the information, editing of the information and providing feedback; o a reader adapted to read information, documents and user identifiers submitted by said user/applicant;

o a non-repudiating module adapted to capture signature, finger print and facial image of said user/applicant;

o an enrolment module for enrolling said user/applicant in accordance with various standards;

o a data storage module adapted to store data associated with said user/applicant;

o an alert module adapted to caution concerned security officials in case of detection of fraudulent entries and fraudulent actions during enrollment by said enrolment module;

o a verification and authentication module adapted to verify the user/applicant and the documents submitted by said userT;

o an envelope dispenser adapted to dispense empty/printed envelopes used for securely and safely holding documents to be submitted; o at least one printer adapted to print labels used for labeling said envelopes and receipts to tag said envelopes for facilitating identifying said envelopes;

o a drop box module adapted to facilitate depositing of labeled and filled envelopes;

o a payment module adapted to determine fees payable by the user and facilitate collection of fees from the user;

o an assistance module adapted to provide assistance to the user in relation to any of the formalities associated with the predetermined procedure.

2. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said Kiosk is adapted to operate in online mode in which the Kiosk application is connected to a terminal system via a communication network for facilitating procuring soft copies of required forms and online filling of said forms, and all the other steps for completing formalities associated with said predetermined procedure such as performing token scan for verification, providing instruction for facilitating payments, enrollment, organizing and submitting data etc. are performed at said Kiosk itself.

3. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said Kiosk is adapted to operate in offline mode in which the Kiosk application is not connected to a communication network, and required forms are manually filled and deposited at said Kiosk, the applicant data is manually input at said Kiosk itself and all the other steps for completing formalities associated with said predetermined procedure are performed manually at said Kiosk.

4. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said input device is a keyboard, touch screen, barcode reader and passport scanner.

5. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said input device is a touch screen and Keyboard.

6. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the reader is a bar code reader.

7. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the reader is a card reader.

8. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said enrollment module is a finger print biometric enrollment module adapted to facilitate enrollment of said user/applicant's finger print images as per NFIQ Compliant and supporting National institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards, by capturing fingerprint images of applicant supporting international standard as per government requirement.

9. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said enrollment module is a photo enrollment module adapted to facilitate enrollment of said user/applicant as per International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

10. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said enrollment module is an eye retina (IRIS) enrollment module adapted to facilitate enrollment of said user/applicant as per government agencies standard.

1 1. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said non repudiating module is a signature, finger print and facial image capture module.

12. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said assistance module is a communication module utilizing a two-way video conferencing via Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) or copper cable with remote screen viewing facility for enabling said user to communicate with a remotely based personnel for clarifying queries related to VISA processing procedures.

13. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said assistance module comprises a manual help desk with personnel available there at for enabling said user to enquire queries related to VISA processing procedures.

14. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said at least one printer is a special printer adapted to print and tag said envelopes with identifying codes selected from a group consisting of symbols, barcodes and color codes used for facilitating identifying said envelopes.

15. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said at least one printer is a special printer adapted to print tamper proof receipts to be associated with said envelopes for tagging said envelopes and facilitating identifying said envelopes.

16. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said payment module is a cheque collection module.

17. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said payment module is a cash/coin payment module adapted to collect cash, coins from said user/applicant and equipped with change dispensing option to dispense change.

18. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the payment module is adapted to receive debit card and credit card payments.

19. The data processing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said Kiosk further comprising a sanitizing module configured thereon, and adapted to dispense sanitizer and tissue for maintaining sanitary conditions during use of said Kiosk.

20. A method for assisting a user in completing formalities associated with a predetermined procedure comprising the steps of:

• submitting data at a token issuing terminal and issuing a token corresponding to the data input at said token issuing terminal;

• guiding and prompting the user/applicant to submit information, documents, token issued by said token issuing terminal and user identifiers required for completing formalities associated with said predetermined procedure via instructions displayed at a display screen and an input device of a user interface;

• reading information, documents, token issued by the token issuing terminal and user identifiers submitted by said user using a reader;

• capturing a signature, finger print and facial image of said user/applicant; • enrolling said user/applicant as per different standards;

• storing data associated with the user in a data storage module;

• verifying the user by using the verification module by comparing data provided by the user with the data stored in the data storage and data provided during enrolment by enrolment module;

• dispensing empty envelopes/printed envelopes for securely and safely holding documents to be submitted by said user/applicant;

• printing labels used for labeling said envelopes and receipts used for tag said envelopes for facilitating identifying said envelopes;

• depositing labeled and filled envelopes in a drop box module;

• collecting fees from the user using a payment module;

• dispensing receipt informing the user regarding current status of user's application.

21. The method for assisting a user in completing formalities further comprising the step of providing assistance to the user in relation to any of the formalities associated with the predetermined procedure.

22. The method for assisting a user in completing formalities still further comprising the step of alerting concerned security officials in case of detection of fraudulent entries.