In order to help you make your preparations, we’ve put together some approximate timeframes and guidelines around the processing of temporary entry visa applications.
However, we strongly recommend that you do not make any irreversible travel plans as we cannot guarantee that applications will be approved, or be approved by a certain date.
All applications lodged are receipted and should be entered into our computer system within 24 hours.
Allocation timeframes
Suva Branch is currently allocating applications to visa officers the Monday the week after they are received. That is, if you submit an application on a Wednesday, it will be allocated to a visa officer by the Monday of the following week.
Temporary entry visas
If you supply us with all the required documents, and there are no complications arising (such as health or character concerns) you can expect us to meet the below standards:
Visitor visas
- 64% of visitor applications decided in 15 days or under
- 79% of visitor applications decided in 60 days.
Work visas
- 23% of work applications decided in 15 days or under
- 51% of work applications decided in 60 days.
Student visas
- 38% of student applications decided in 15 days or under
- 73% of student applications decided in 60 days.
Please note that any applications lodged under the Partnership Category may take up to 90 days and require an interview before they can be finalised.
Returning residents visas/transits/transfers
- 90% of returning residents visas/transits/transfers decided in 15 days or under.
Emergency applications
Generally emergency temporary visas, for example to attend a funeral or for medical evacuation, are processed the same day if all the requirements have been met.