This is with reference to media queries
regarding issuance of visas to South African
cricketer, Mr Muhammad Imran Tahir and his family.
Mr Imran
Tahir approached the Pakistan Consulate Birmingham on 4 Sep 2017
for issuance of visas for himself and his wife, son and
mother-in-law.
The Consul
General received Mr Tahir in his office, and explained to
him that issuing visas to third country nationals requires additional processes. Mr
Tahir as well as his three family members are holders of South African
passports.
Consulate staff
assisted him in filling out the visa applications. The visa applications are
handled by Gerry’s but, as a special case, his applications were directly
accepted by the consulate. It may be noted that the normal visa processing time
is five working days.
When the High
Commissioner came to know about the matter, he immediately intervened and gave
necessary approval after which the visas were issued the same day. The High
Commissioner also spoke to Mr Tahir over telephone.
It is clarified
that the time taken in issuing visas was due to non fillingout four
applications, non availability of supporting documents and additional
processing required in respect of visas for holders of third country passports.
