BLS International Services Ltd., one of the world’s largest visa service providers, has announced the acquisition of iDATA, a leading Turkish firm specializing in visa and consular services.
This acquisition, valued at €50 million, represents a strategic addition to BLS International’s expanding global portfolio.
BLS International, headquartered in India, has been eyeing acquisitions in the visa consular space, particularly targeting regional providers. The acquisition of iDATA is a testament to this strategy, enabling BLS to extend its operational footprint significantly. iDATA, known for its expertise in visa and consular services, operates over 37 visa application centers across more than 15 countries, serving diplomatic missions of Germany, Italy, and the Czech Republic. Notably, iDATA has been the exclusive provider of these services to Italy’s diplomatic mission since 2006 and the German government since 2012 in certain geographies.
The financial performance of iDATA has been robust, with the company reporting a revenue of €19.9 million and an EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation) of €10.4 million for the calendar year 2022. This acquisition is not only a strategic expansion for BLS International but also a move that reinforces its commitment to building long-lasting relationships with governments worldwide.
This acquisition by BLS International is a significant step in its global expansion strategy, enhancing its service offerings and reinforcing its commitment to excellence in visa and consular services. It represents a win-win situation for both companies, with iDATA gaining the support of a global giant and BLS International extending its reach into the strategically important Turkish market.
