Advice Centre

Background

A South African client based in Johannesburg sought to apply for a UK Ancestry Visa, having confirmed that one of her grandparents was born in the United Kingdom. While eligible, our client faced challenges in gathering the necessary original South African documents to prove their family lineage and meet the UKVI requirements.

Challenges

• Locating and obtaining uncertified long-form birth and marriage certificates for their parents and grandparents from South African authorities.
• Ensuring documents were in an appropriate format as required by the UKVI.
• Understanding the complex UK visa requirements and compiling a fully compliant application.

Solution: A Strategic Collaboration

IMD Corporate partnered with Snaid & Morris Inc., a Johannesburg-based South African law firm, leveraging their proximity to the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and local expertise to streamline the process.

South African Law Firm’s Role

• Document Procurement: Used their in-country presence to physically access local DHA offices, overcoming delays typically experienced with remote requests.
• Verification & Apostille Services: Ensured documents were original, legally verified, and apostilled promptly for UK recognition.
• Client Communication: Maintained close contact with the client to ensure all family data was cross-checked before official requests.

IMD Corporate’s Role

• Eligibility Confirmation: Assessed client’s eligibility and advised on the required proof of ancestry and other visa conditions.
• Application Preparation: Compiled a complete visa application file, including:
  • Ancestry lineage documentation
  • Employment plans in the UK
  • Maintenance funds evidence
  • Legal declarations and cover letters
• Submission Support: Guided the client through the visa submission process and prepared her for the biometric appointment.

Outcome

The application was submitted within a very short time of engagement. Thanks to the collaboration, all required documents were obtained and certified without delay, and the visa was approved within standard processing timelines.