The information provided so far indicates that it is indeed absurd bureaucratic red-tape. Stuff any sensible individual could probably resolve in a day - or less.
I have recent experience dealing with government - specifically around specifics of access to a building. The bureaucrats in charge did not understand the layout of the (small) building, despite it being literally 30ft from their office. Took 6 months to resolve!!
If all you know is pushing paper, then that is what you’ll do, I suppose.