NPRA launches SMS visa service

Manama, Apr.25(BNA): Earlier this month, Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs (NPRA) launched SMS service for Visa Issuing System. This will be an addition to other NPRA SMS services. The new service informs applicant the status of his/her application for issuing or renewing all types of visas. This service spares the applicant the need to go to the NPRA headquarters for follow-up. An SMS is sent to the applicant immediately after receiving the application on the telephone number mentioned in the application form. Another SMS follows when the visa is issued or if there is need to go the concerned department. NPRA, however, stressed that to benefit from the service applicants should make sure to fill in correct telephone numbers on the application forms. The new SMS service is part of the NPRA e-services transformation plan commenced in earlier years with the launching of the e-visa through the website www.evisa.gov.bh. The services provided through the website have increased over the years. The new SMS Services for Visa Issuing System followed the implementation of the e-passport renewal system allowing applicants to track down the progress of application launched December last year.