By John Ikani
In a move designed to boost trade and travel between Nigeria and South Africa, South African authorities have unveiled a new visa program specifically for Nigerian business travellers.
Consul-General Bobby Moroe announced the five-year multiple-entry visa during the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce July Breakfast Meeting 2024.
“We now have a five-year multiple entry visa for business people,” Moroe declared, describing the program as a “special provision” aimed at addressing past concerns and easing visa hurdles for frequent business travel between the two nations.
Faster Processing and Group Applications
Moroe acknowledged previous frustrations with visa applications, particularly extended processing times. He emphasized improvements implemented since the 2023 immigration forum.
“Our turnaround has been cut short,” Moroe said. “In the past, people complained that we were keeping their passports for too long. Our turnaround time now is a maximum of seven to eight days.”
The consulate has also introduced a convenient option for group travel. Businesses can now arrange group visa applications through VFS Global, a visa outsourcing service.
This streamlines the process by allowing companies to submit a single application with a travel date and list of applicants. Moroe explained, “As groups, we set up appointments on your behalf with VFS, you give us a date and submit a list, to make a request for VFS to allow you to submit with your group.”
Enhanced Flexibility and Regional Travel Support
Moroe highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the visa experience. Applicants can now submit certified copies of their passport data page when applying for visas while travelling in other countries. Once approved, the consulate will notify them via SMS for collection upon their return home.
For travellers transiting through South Africa en route to Zimbabwe or Namibia, the consulate offers assistance with passage arrangements.
Moroe also clarified visa requirements for regional travel. South African nationals generally don’t require visas for specific West African regions, while West African nationals can utilize their ECOWAS passports for stays not exceeding 90 days.
Trade Imbalance and Increased Flights
Moroe acknowledged the trade imbalance between Nigeria and South Africa, with Nigeria exporting significantly more ($72.1 billion) than South Africa ($447 million) according to 2022 statistics.
He highlighted key Nigerian exports like rubber, petroleum, and crude oil, alongside South Africa’s pear and apple exports valued at $43.2 million.
Kemi Leke-Bamtefa, Country Manager of South African Airways, announced a positive development for frequent travellers. Starting in late October 2024, the airline will increase flight frequency from Lagos, offering five weekly flights instead of the current three.
Leke-Bamtefa also disclosed the airline’s expansion with new destinations in Perth, Australia, and Sao Paulo, Brazil.
She emphasized South African Airways’ role as a network carrier, connecting travellers to various destinations across Southern Africa.
