South Africans living in Ireland are voicing frustration over extended delays in processing short-stay visas for visiting family and friends—delays that have led to significant financial losses and disrupted travel plans.
The visa backlog follows the Irish government’s decision in July to introduce a visa requirement for South African and Botswanan nationals, citing a rise in international protection applications from those countries.
Though Ireland’s Department of Justice states that short-stay visas should typically be processed within six to eight weeks, many applicants say they have been waiting up to 12 weeks or longer with no clear communication on the status of their applications.
Emotional and Financial Toll
Tenille Webster, a 28-year-old South African from Durban who now lives in County Leitrim, said she and her boyfriend Steve have already lost €540 in hotel, flight, and activity booking changes. Steve applied for his visa three months ago, and they are still waiting on a decision.
“We followed the estimated timeline and planned accordingly,” Webster said. “Instead of a joyful reunion, we’re dealing with stress, uncertainty, and added costs.”
Webster added that the process forces people to make last-minute bookings once visas are finally approved, often at higher prices and with limited availability.
Calls for Better Communication
Dublin-based Tegan Jones shared a similar experience. Her friend Ansuné has been waiting 12 weeks for a visa decision, with travel dates rapidly approaching. Jones emphasized the need for greater transparency:
“They could at least tell us where we are in the queue or provide an accurate time frame so we can plan alternatives.”
Growing Backlog
As of this year, Ireland has received 4,965 short-stay visa applications from South African and Botswanan nationals. According to the Department of Justice, 2,384 of these are still pending.
A spokesperson for the department acknowledged the issue, stating:
“We are acutely aware that visa applications are very important for the persons impacted. Additional resources and staff have recently been assigned to the visa division to help reduce waiting times in the coming months.”
While officials say most visas are being processed within target timelines, unexpected delays—including security checks or documentation issues—may cause holdups beyond their control.
In the meantime, authorities continue to urge applicants not to book flights or accommodations until their visas are confirmed.
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