South Africa simplifies visa process for Nigerian tourists, business travelers

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a significant relaxation in visa application procedures for Nigerian travelers.

Speaking at the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, which President Bola Tinubu also attended, Ramaphosa revealed that Nigerian tourists and business people can now apply for visas without submitting their passports.

The move is part of South Africa’s efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and boost tourism and trade between the two nations. According to Ramaphosa, the country has also introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa to further ease travel for Nigerians.

“We have simplified the visa processes to facilitate travel for Nigerian business people and tourists,” he said, emphasizing that the changes are aimed at fostering economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people connections.

President Tinubu lauded the initiative, noting that it would encourage stronger collaboration between both countries in various sectors.

A statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy/ Coordinating Adviser, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, quoted the South African President as saying, “Our efforts to create a favourable environment include our simplified visa process for Nigerian business people to travel to South Africa. Qualifying Nigerian business people can be granted a five-year multiple entry visa.”

He pledged South Africa’s commitment to removing constraints on greater investment and addressing the challenges faced by companies in both countries.

“As we mark 30 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, we see a bright future for our relationship. Our strong bonds of friendship provide a firm foundation for more meaningful economic cooperation.

“Nigeria is host to a number of South African companies. South Africa has always been open to Nigerian business, reflected in the number of investments and operations established in this country.

“But there is much more we need to do. We need to remove the remaining constraints to greater investment, just as we need to address some of the challenges that companies have experienced.”

President Ramaphosa acknowledged the Nigerian government’s reforms to further strengthen and foster a business environment that offers assurances to investors, including from South Africa.

“Our government continues with its efforts to improve the ease of doing business in South Africa. We want to enable investors to operate, trade and pursue opportunities in various sectors.

“We look forward to seeing more Nigerian companies investing in South Africa,” he said.

The South African leader said Africa’s development and the challenges facing countries of the Global South would be firmly placed on the G20 agenda.