Q: Hi, in April I got a job offer from a New Zealand firm. And I lodged my application for a work visa through the New Zealand High Commission in Pretoria office, South Africa. I have been waiting from early may till today and have not got a visa as yet. Its very frustrating since I thought it would be ready within the 3-4 weeks they suggest on their website. can anyone who has been through this enlighten me on how the whole process is handled. Why does it take such a long time yet all my documents where properly handed in? How long does it really take to get a general work visa? Zenji
A: (Missed the boat at first, sorry) Phone and ask very, but very politely whether they have received your application and how long it will take. I managed to get them to process an application (that normally takes weeks) within three days by using plain old flattery. But you MUST phone! They sent one of my applications to the Standard Bank for crying out aloud. If you do not chase them, nothing will happen, and if your application has gone missing ..they will not know until you enquire.