I am a South African academic based at SOAS, University of London. I am writing with regards to an issue of major concern. Some 6 months ago, I applied for a new South African passport at the VFS offices in London. As such, I have been inquiring since February on the status of my passport and have been informed that it is still processing. I am now unable to travel to a conference this week as my passport is full and has not empty pages. I have no valid travel document and am scheduled to travel in June. Despite calling and emailing VFS repeatedly they are extremely impolite and unhelpful. I am not entirely sure on how to resolve this matter but I am now appealing to the relevant authorities. I will appreciate any feedback or assistance in this regard.

I am writing with regards to an issue of major concern. Some 6 months ago, I applied for a new South African passport at the VFS offices in London. As such, I have been inquiring since February on the status of my passport and have been informed that it is still processing. I am now unable to travel to a conference this week as my passport is full and has not empty pages. I have no valid travel document and am scheduled to travel in June. Despite calling and emailing VFS repeatedly they are extremely impolite and unhelpful. I am not entirely sure on how to resolve this matter but I was directed to you as the relevant authorities by Ms Astrid Abrahams at DIRCO. I will appreciate any feedback or assistance in this regard.

My reference number is: SALO/ 121124/0040/01