My mum-in-law was so worried that I can't attend my brother-in-law's wedding in South Africa this December because it might complicate my ILR application. She is still positive though that the whole family can go and even adviced me to ask people here in forum on what's the best way to do it. Here's my case:

- FLR M expires Nov 27, 2013
- I'm planning to apply for ILR Oct 27, probably go to Settlement Checking Service so I don't miss any paperworks
- Brother-in-Law's wedding on Dec 17, but will fly there on the 10th
- I still have to apply for African visit visa, book flights and hotels. But good thing the family are willing to pay some of the expenses going there because they know we are saving up to apply for ILR.

My questions are:
1. I heard that some people got their ILR after 2 weeks of submitting it, did it arrive before the FLR_M expiration date?

2. Is there a way to make the UKBA process the ILR faster, maybe show some proof like wedding invitation, flight tickets or hotels?

3. Lastly, where can I apply for South African tourist visa?

I tried and researched about it too, but would love to know what your thoughts are. Thanks so much