Immigration Dept to offer Saturday appointments from November

The Department of Immigration will begin offering Saturday services for the first time starting November 1 2025, as part of efforts to improve accessibility and convenience for the public.

According to a government statement, the department will operate by appointment only at its Processing Unit between 9:30 am and 1:30 pm each Saturday. The new arrangement is expected to give residents and visitors more flexibility to manage immigration matters outside of the traditional workweek.

Services available on Saturdays will include extensions to entry permits for workers and dependents, and extensions to landing permits for visitors. Customers must book appointments in advance and are reminded to arrive on time with the necessary documents and fees to avoid delays.

Acting Chief Immigration Officer Nadia Demming-Hodge said the introduction of Saturday appointments highlights the department’s focus on customer service and efficiency.

“We understand that many of our clients have demanding schedules and work in industries that require them to be away from the mainland during the week. By offering Saturday appointments, we aim to make it easier for residents and visitors to access our services in a way that fits their needs. This initiative underscores the Department’s commitment to enhancing service delivery and supporting the needs of the public we serve,” she stated.

The department said it remains committed to modernising operations through improved digital services, staff training, and more streamlined internal processes. These efforts are part of a broader plan to provide faster, more reliable service to the public.

The Department of Immigration, which operates under the Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Natural Resources, handles applications for residence, work permits, and visitor extensions. Over the past year, the department has been working to address delays and improve service delivery, with officials citing ongoing modernisation and digital transition initiatives.

For more information or to book a Saturday appointment, customers can contact the Department of Immigration at 284-494-4700, 4703, or 4705, or visit appointments.gov.vg.