South Africa relaxes visa rules for Nigerian tourists and business people

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that Nigerian tourists can now apply for a visa without the need to submit a passport. 

Ramaphosa made the announcement on Tuesday, December 3, during the opening of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, which was attended by President Bola Tinubu.

He explained that South Africa had simplified its visa processes to make travel easier for Nigerian business people and tourists, introducing measures such as five-year multiple-entry visas.

“Our efforts to create a favourable environment included simplifying the visa process for Nigerian business people travelling to South Africa. Qualifying Nigerian business people were granted a five-year multiple-entry visa,” he said.

The President also reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to removing barriers to increased investment and addressing the challenges faced by companies in both nations.

“As we marked 30 years of diplomatic relations, we saw a bright future for our relationship. Our strong bonds of friendship provided a solid foundation for more meaningful economic cooperation,” Ramaphosa said.