South Africa clarifies visa process for Nigerian applicants amid reforms

SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa has announced new updates to its visa application process for Nigerian nationals, aiming to enhance efficiency and accessibility while safeguarding security.

These changes come after President Cyril Ramaphosa’s statements at the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission on December 3.

Under the revised procedure, Nigerian applicants are no longer required to submit their physical passports at the time of application.

Instead, they can provide certified copies of the biography page of their passports. However, applicants must present their original passports for verification during the process and submit them for visa issuance once approved.

“These reforms are intended to simplify the application process while maintaining the integrity of the visa system,” a government spokesperson stated.

The new process reflects South Africa’s commitment to improving services for travelers while supporting economic activity and tourism.

The reforms are part of a broader effort to modernize the visa system and strike a balance between national security and accessibility.

Meanwhile, South African Airways (SAA) is grappling with disruptions caused by a strike initiated by the South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA).

The strike, which began on December 5, stems from a pay dispute, with pilots demanding a 30% salary increase while SAA has proposed an 8.46% increment.

The strike has affected key routes, including flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban, Windhoek, Gqeberha, and Mauritius.

Travelers have faced significant delays and cancellations. SAA has assured customers that rebooking options will be provided, emphasizing that trade partners should communicate any changes promptly.

“Passengers will be accommodated on the next available flights. Alternatives such as rescheduling within the same cabin class are also available,” the airline said in a statement.

Euan McNeil, Managing Director of Flight Centre South Africa, urged travelers to remain flexible. “While some disruptions are inevitable, partner airline operations remain unaffected and continue to run on schedule,” he added.

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