How to obtain SAQA verification letters

If you are planning to study or work abroad, you may need to obtain a verification letter from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) to prove the authenticity and validity of your qualifications. SAQA is the official agency responsible for evaluating, recognizing, and verifying foreign qualifications in South Africa and assessing and certifying local qualifications for international recognition. In this article, we discuss the process for obtaining SAQA verification letters, the estimated timeline for issuing these documents, and a solution for South Africans that need their verification letters in the shortest time possible.

What are SAQA verification letters, and who needs them?

A SAQA verification letter is a document that confirms the level, type, and status of your qualifications, as well as any relevant details such as credit values, learning outcomes, and accreditation status. This letter can be useful for various purposes, such as:

• Applying for further education or training overseas
• Seeking employment or professional registration in another country
• Providing evidence of your qualifications for immigration or visa purposes
• Applying for recognition of prior learning (RPL) or credit transfer in South Africa or abroad.

How can I obtain a verification letter from SAQA?

To obtain a SAQA verification letter, you need to follow these steps:

#1 – Check if your qualifications are registered with SAQA.

Before you can apply for a verification letter, you need to make sure that your qualifications are registered with SAQA. SAQA maintains a database of all qualifications awarded in South Africa and evaluated from abroad, which is known as the National Learners’ Records Database (NLRD). You can search the NLRD online to see if your qualifications are listed, and if not, you may need to apply for recognition of your foreign qualifications or credit transfer.

#2 – Complete the SAQA verification request form.

Once you have confirmed that your qualifications are registered with SAQA, you can download and complete the SAQA verification request form. This form requires you to provide your personal details, the details of the qualifications you want to verify, and the purpose and destination of the verification letter. You also need to attach certified copies of your qualifications and identity documents with the request. Once submitted, you will receive a draft verification letter with a quotation and reference number. The fee payable must be paid to SAQA, after which the proof of payment (containing your quote reference number) must be forwarded to SAQA.

#3 – Submit the form and supporting documents to SAQA.

It is best to submit the completed form and supporting documents to SAQA via email. SAQA recommends using the email option for faster processing. The email address for verification requests is verifications@saqa.org.za. After SAQA receives your payment, you will receive an email with an electronic copy of your verification letter and supporting documents. Th email will also contain information on where and how the physical copies of your verification letters can be collected.

#4 – Wait for the verification letter.

Once SAQA receives your verification request and documents, it will process your application and issue a verification letter, subject to the availability and accuracy of the information. If there are any discrepancies or queries regarding your qualifications, SAQA may request additional information or clarification from you or the relevant institutions. According to SAQA, the processing time for verification letters is 25 days, but this is inaccurate. Most South Africans wait MONTHS for their letters to be issued, which can cause costly delays in official processes.

What is the fastest route to obtaining SAQA verification letters?

As a registered document concierge service provider, Apostil.co.za can apply for and obtain qualification verification letters on behalf of its clients in less than two weeks. We can also have your documents apostilled or authenticated for official use outside of SA.

How Apostil Can Help

Need your SAQA verification letter in the fastest time possible? Let Apostil.co.za handle it for you! Our team of experts will guide you through the process, ensure that all your documents are complete and accurate, and submit your request to SAQA on your behalf. We’ll also monitor the status of your application and follow up with SAQA if necessary to expedite the process.