Visa for Ika in Sanur Bali

Ika, Jevon and I went down to the British Consulate in Sanur today, to clarify the procedure for getting her a visa to visit the UK. Britain specializes in bureaucracy and the immigration is no different.

The British Consulate is in an unmarked building on Jl. Tirta Nadi in Sanur. You can just show up, and the office is open from 9am-12pm. The desk staff, Mary from Sulawesi is super helpful and friendly. She is a shining star among a sea of paperwork.

The British immigration treats Ika like a tourist, and the several page app, asks scanty info about her connection with me. “If I could just get in front of a British official and tell him my situation, we’re married, we live here, I have a job etc. we’d be cool.” I said. “That’s what everyone says,” said Mary, “but you cannot talk directly, only your wife can do that.” Mary told me I could write a letter, to supplement the app, detailing everything about myself, convincing them I actually do exist and have a role in Ika’s life.

I have to get photocopy’s of my passport, rental agreement, bank statements, marriage license and send them with the app, to an agent in Jakarta, appointed by the British Embassy.

British Consulate
Jl. Tirta Nadi
Sanur