Joombaah
Returning Citizen’s Permit: Re-establishing Residency in Lesotho – Requirements and Application Process
Permit Information
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PERMIT_POSTED_BY:
admin
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PERMIT_POSTED_ON:
Oct 22, 2024
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Views :
214
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Category :
Africa »
Southern Africa
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Description :
The Returning Citizen’s Permit is issued to individuals who were previously citizens of Lesotho and wish to return and reside once again in the Kingdom of Lesotho. This permit allows former citizens to legally re-establish residency. Applicants must provide proof of previous citizenship, along with other required documents. Joombaah facilitates knowledge to help you navigate the permit process smoothly.
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Phone :
(+266) 22215105
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Email :
info.lrp@homeaffairslesotho.com
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Website :
https://www.homeaffairslesotho.com/Returning-Citizens-permit.html
Overview
Returning Citizen’s Permit: Re-establishing Residency in Lesotho – Requirements and Application Process
Introduction
The Returning Citizen’s Permit allows individuals who were once citizens of Lesotho to return and re-establish their residency within the Kingdom. This permit is crucial for those who have relocated and now wish to return to their homeland. Joombaah provides guidance to help applicants understand and fulfill all necessary requirements for a successful permit application, ensuring a smooth transition back to life in Lesotho.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Returning Citizen’s Permit, applicants must:
- Have previously held citizenship in Lesotho.
- Submit all required documents, including proof of previous citizenship or identification.
Important Notes:
- Dependents under 21 are exempt from paying the visa fee.
- No police clearance is required for applicants under the age of 16.
- All document copies must be certified.
Documents Required
Ensure that the following certified documents are ready for submission:
- Duly completed online form
- 2 Passport-size photographs
- Medical Certificate (to be completed by a Government Medical Practitioner in Lesotho)
- Police Clearance from Lesotho
- Police Clearance from the country of origin (for first-time applicants)
- Letter from the applicant (requesting permission from the Director of Immigration to reside in Lesotho)
- Proof of previous citizenship or identification (e.g., previous Lesotho ID)
- Copy of passport
- Proof of payment
Application Process
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the Returning Citizen’s Permit:
Step 1: Submit Your Online Application
- Visit the VFS Global website and complete the online application form.
- Pay the required fee of M2800 and schedule an appointment.
- Payments can be made via prepayment at Standard Bank Lesotho or by credit/debit card at the Visa Facilitation Centre. Cash payments are not accepted.
Step 2: Attend Your Appointment
- Arrive 15 minutes early at the Permit Facilitation Centre with your appointment letter, printed application form, proof of payment, and all required documents.
- Upon arrival, collect a token and wait for your number to be called.
- Submit your application and receive an acknowledgment receipt, which is necessary for collecting your documents later.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
- Ensure all required documents are certified and complete. These documents will be the only ones considered once your application has been submitted.
Step 4: Provide Biometric Data
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Enroll your fingerprints and provide a digital photograph at the Permit Facilitation Centre. The biometric process includes a finger scan of all 10 digits and a digital photograph.
Note: Children and infants are also required to provide biometric data.
Step 5: Collect Your Permit
- Once your application is processed, the outcome will be sent to the district office where you reside.
- Track your application online using the VFS Global website.
- Collect your permit in person from the district office by presenting your original passport and acknowledgment receipt.
Permit Fees
- The application fee for the Returning Citizen’s Permit is M2800.
- Note: Dependents under 21 are exempt from paying the visa fee.
Validity and Renewal
The Returning Citizen’s Permit is typically valid for one year and can be renewed by submitting a copy of the previous permit and ensuring all documents are up-to-date. Renewal follows the same process and requires updated documents and fees.
Additional Information
- Processing times are managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, and VFS Global has no control over this timeline.
- Applicants must submit their original passport and acknowledgment receipt when collecting the processed permit.
- Ensure that all documents are certified and complete to avoid delays.