Waisale Natuna is all packed up to be in France in time to watch his oldest child Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu, lead his combatants against Georgia in their third 2023 Rugby World Cup Pool C match on Sunday, October 1.

Initially, Natuna wanted to be in France before the Flying Fijians’ first game against Wales at Bordeaux on Sunday, September 10, which the Welsh won 32-26.

He also missed the RWC stunner when Nayacalevu skippered Fiji’s 22-15 win over Australia after 69 years.

That’s because he did not have his visa approved on time. He and his nephew, Avimeleki Qionitoga, had lodged their visa application with VFS Global Visa Application centre in Suva last month.

“When I followed up on our visa I was told that the system at their (French embassy) office in Singapore was down,” Natuna said.

“I then checked again last week and I was told that it would take three weeks. I am happy now that we have had our three-month visa approved.”

French Embassy media officer Vishaal Kumar, in a statement, said the delay was because Na tuna’s initial application on August 31 stated that his travel itinerary was to expire on September 4.

“Regarding recent concerns over visa processing times, the French Embassy would like to provide clarity: (Mr) Waisale Natuna collected his passport on 18th September 2023 from VFS Global in Suva, having first approached them on 31st August 2023,” the statement said.

“Due to that, he was advised of the processing timeline and the need for a new itinerary.

“(Mr) Natuna returned with the required document on 6th September, and his application was promptly forwarded to Singapore for processing.

“The French Embassy in Fiji wishes to emphasise our continued commitment to facilitating travel between Fiji and France.

Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu.

“Together with VFS Global and the French Embassy in Singapore, we strive for efficiency and clarity in all visa procedures.

“We encourage all Fijians to familiarise themselves with the necessary requirements and to plan ahead, ensuring a smooth and timely visa application process.”

Mr Natuna flies out to France early next week to be in time to cheer on the Flying Fijians against Georgia at the Stade de Bordeaux on Monday October 2 (Fiji time).

“I have a specially designed shirt, which I will wear whenever Fiji plays in this World Cup,” Natuna said from Sadro Village, Deuba, Serua, yesterday.

Feedback: karalaini.waqanidrola@fijisun.com.fj