IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? A new electronic filing system to submit and track visa applications has been implemented.

What does the change mean? The online process will simplify processing and require fewer personal appearances by visa applicants.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate.
  • Business impact: Online processing is expected to be faster than manual processing, with visa approvals to be issued a few days after applicants complete their biometrics appointments.
  • Next steps: Applicants may submit applications and supporting documents electronically and receive an appointment date for providing biometrics. Visa approvals are expected to be granted within a few days after the biometrics appointment, and the local ID (DNI) card will be mailed to the applicant.

Analysis & Comments: Visa applicants will benefit from simpler procedures and fewer in-person appearances. They should be prepared to provide additional information such as their marital status, level of studies and industry sector. Applicants should anticipate some delays as the new system is rolled out, but processing should eventually be faster than now.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.