Visa frustrations vented on internet
THE online Indian visa application system that was implemented in February is confusing and frustrating South African tourists and travel agents.
Inconsistent requirements for the online system prompted a group of travel agents to voice their frustration with the Indian consulate in Durban three months ago.
However, travel agents said they were told that nothing could be done to address their concerns because it is an international online system.
People who want to visit India have taken to social networking sites to voice their dissatisfaction.
This week, one applicant said on Facebook: “@ the Indian visa office OMW . . . going to screammmmmmmmmmm . . . new rules from feb this year . . . not passport size pics anymore but slightly larger ones 5cm by 5cm . . . if u are taking ur kids with u . . . both parents to write a consent letter that you con- sent to ur kids travelling with you!!! HELLO we bought their tickets!!! YIKES wasted my whole frigging morning . . .”
Friends responded to the status with their own experiences.
“they keep changing requirements regularly to TRY n avoid fraudulent ones being made. last time we went for my wife’s passport, they required pics with a Grey background.”
A Ladysmith social worker who did not want to be named travelled to India three months ago after a frustrating visa application process. She said she struggled with her application and was forced to return to Durban twice.
Travel agent Johnson Naidoo said the application process had become arduous and encouraged clients to fill in the forms on their own.
“It takes too long for us to fill in. Previously, when there was a change there were workshops. There was nothing this time.”
Another travel agent, who asked not to be named, said he did not understand the need for the change.
“We are Indian South Africans. Why do we even need visas to visit?”
The Durban consulate’s Harsh VS Negi said anyone experiencing issues with the application process should see them at the consulate.
He said that all the necessary requirements for applicants were those that appeared on the site blsindia-southafrica.com.