Applying for a South African Visa/Permit can sometimes be a frustrating process. Each of the stages in the process from application right till receipt of the decision, there are back and forth hurdles such that if one is not well prepared, it hinders the prospects of being granted the desired Visa/Permit.
Sometimes the frustrations emanate from a service point of view (service received from the Department of Home Affairs officials who battle backlogs for most of their days). At times, it is about applicants securing alternative documents other than those specifically asked for, even though they may well fulfil the same function and purpose to everyone’s thinking, but not for the DHA officials. Things like these happen a lot during the Visa/Permit application process and this is why it is very important to engage our services as we have seasoned advisors and assistants to guide you through the processes so that it can be a lot less of a hassle.
In this brief article we will outline the stages that a Visa/Permit application goes through, and how Immigration Law Associates gets involved to assist you.
- First consultation with Immigration Law Associates where we listen to what you require. We then advise you on the options you have, requirements needed for each option and answer any questions you might have.
- We guide you on gathering ALL the required documentation for your chosen option.
- VFS Global Process (we assist in this process);
- Completion of the Online Application Form on VFS Global website.
- Payment of the applicable fee, to schedule an appointment at VFS.
- Download the completed application form and checklist.
- Appointment scheduled.
- On appointment date, applicant must go to VFS Global. Be sure to arrive early and collect a token then wait until the token is called. Applicant must bring appointment letter, passport/travel document and all the required supporting documents depending on the Visa/Permit type. Upon being called the VFS Global attendant will check if the application is in order and if payment is received. If so, they will issue a receipt.
- Biometric information will then be collected i.e fingerprints (finger scan), digital photograph etc.
- VFS process done, applicant may leave and await decision of the application.
- Application is sent to Department of Home Affairs by VFS Global.
- Immigration Law Associates intervenes and liaises with the Department of Home Affairs to facilitate the speedy determination of the application and deal with any other incidental matters pertaining to the application.
- Department of Home Affairs will then make a decision on the application and convey it for collection.
- Applicant then collects the decision.
- If application is denied, Immigration Law Associates will then advise on possible options including assisting the applicant to launch appeal procedures if needs be under the circumstances.
The procedures mentioned above are strict and conducted in an inflexible manner. It therefore requires adequate preparation so as not to inconvenience oneself. As Immigration Law Associates all our staff are dedicated to assisting our clients through the process so that it can be peaceful and rewarding. We stand ready to assist in a wide array of legal immigration matters so that you can explore and pursue your opportunities across borders legally. Our approach is professional, comprehensive and counters the hurdles in immigration. Contact us for an appointment and consultation.
The information contained in this site is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legally binding advice on any subject matter. One should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this site without seeking legal or other professional advice. The contents of this site contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments or address one’s peculiar situation. We disclaim all liability for actions one may take or fail to take based on any content on this site.
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