@tomsware
I found applying through online very convenient. I just stuck to thier instructions and requests to the letter. It basically gives a list of documentation you need to follow and I just did those that were requested online. I did not submit any extras. I got a reply in 10 days when i sent my enquiry in the 5th week. It depends from where you apply. I guess if you are in a place where processing times are faster, maybe you could look into paper application. However, this process was smooth.