BREAKING: South Africa Eases Visa Process for Nigerians, Drops Passport Requirement

South Africa Eases Visa Process for Nigerians, Drops Passport Requirement 

In a move aimed at strengthening ties and boosting economic collaboration, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a major change in visa requirements for Nigerian travelers.

Speaking at the opening of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town on Tuesday, Ramaphosa revealed that Nigerian tourists can now apply for South African visas without submitting their passports.

The event was attended by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, highlighting the importance of the relationship between the two African powerhouses. Ramaphosa stated that South Africa had simplified its visa processes to make travel easier for Nigerian businesspeople and tourists. One of the measures introduced includes a five-year multiple-entry visa, which is expected to promote seamless movement between the two nations.

The South African president emphasized his country’s commitment to fostering greater investment and addressing obstacles faced by businesses operating across the borders of both nations. “We are removing constraints to ensure more robust economic collaboration,” Ramaphosa said.

He also praised Nigeria’s efforts to create a more conducive environment for investors, noting recent reforms aimed at boosting confidence in the country’s economy. “These reforms are a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to fostering a vibrant business climate,” he added.

Additionally, Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of Africa’s collective development and pledged to bring the continent’s challenges, particularly those faced by countries in the Global South, to the forefront of the G20 agenda.

The changes to the visa policy are expected to enhance economic, cultural, and social exchanges between the two countries, further cementing their roles as leading voices in Africa’s integration and global representation.