The British High Commission has announced changes in the handling of visa applications and processing systems.
British High Commissioner to Zambia Carolyn Davidson has disclosed with effect from 18th October 2010 under the new system all United Kingdom (UK) visas will no longer be processed in Lusaka but Pretoria, South Africa.
Ms Davidson told a media briefing in Lusaka today, that however, the visa section in Lusaka will remain open to enable applicants submit applications and pay visa fees.
She explained that all applications which will be done in Lusaka will be sent to the British High Commission in Pretoria to be processed before being returned to Lusaka.
She further advised applicants in Zambia to apply at least 10 working days before they intend to travel to the UK to ensure there is sufficient time to process their visa application.
She said staff in Lusaka will not be involved or be aware of the outcome of individual visa applications, adding that they will be unable to influence the decision or handle any follow-up queries on applications that have already been processed or awaiting processing in Pretoria.
Ms. Davidson noted that the Commission’s Visa Section will only be accepting applications that have been completed online using the UK ’s visa application portal.
The High Commissioner further explained that the changes are also in a bid to improve efficiency in the way the visas are being processed as the Visa Section at the British High Commission in Pretoria operates as a regional processing centre for Southern Africa.
Ms. Davidson said the section has already processed all applications submitted in Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe and Malawi as well as applications submitted in South Africa.
Ed Bossley, UK Border Agency Regional Manager expressed happiness with the online application noting that it is effective and will cater for a larger audience.
Mr. Bossley disclosed that the regional processing of UK Visa application has worked effectively in other countries in the region hence will not envisage any difficulties in making transition in Zambia.
He has since pledged his organisation’s commitment to providing best services for all people wishing to apply for UK visas.
ZANIS