In their efforts to simplify the visa application process in The Gambia, the British High Commission on October 28th introduced a new  British visa application form at a press briefing held at the visa section  of the commission at Fajara.

The new scheme includes eight standard application forms and  three forms for diplomats.

Speaking at the press briefing, Jenny Fenton, Deputy British High Commissioner to The Gambia, said the UK visas under the leadership of Mark Sedwill, Director of UK Visas, have updated the visa application forms to make them easier to understand. She said that forms are written in plain English  to enable applicants to easily understand their contents.

The forms, she went on, are accompanied by comprehensive guidance notes that instruct the applicants on how to fill and complete each section. 

“This explains how to fill in the questions and what documents an applicant needs to submit with the forms.  If this is done correctly, then we are less likely to ask applicants for more information, or call them for an interview,” she explain.

Ms Fenton expressed confidence that the new forms will help UK visas to identify high-risk applicants as well as to more confidently identify and welcome their low risk, high-value customers, who play a vital role in boosting Britain’s economy.  She noted that this new development will enable them to maintain and enhance their position as the destination of choice for their high value legitimate travellers in an increasingly competitive global market.

Commenting on other issues such as fair decisions, Fenton noted that decisions on whether to grant or deny visas are based on the United Kingdom Immigration rules.  She said, “the most common reason for a visa refusal is either the correct documents have not been submitted, or the information contained in the form is insufficent”.

Ms Fenton urged  applicants to submit original documents to safeguard against the submission of false ones.  She then disclosed that there had been attempts by some applicants to submit forged documents describing this as a criminal offence which can result in the refusal of that application and that the person may be liable for legal action.
According to Ms Fenton, out of the approximately 7000 to 8000 applicants yearly, 60% are granted visa. The old visa forms, according to her, are usable until the 9th of November.