The Office of the President has revealed an update on the simplified visa application process for Nigerian nationals, following South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's remarks at the South Africa-Nigeria Bilateral Commission on 3 December.
As part of a broader effort to modernize and streamline visa procedures, the South African Mission in Nigeria has introduced changes to improve efficiency and accessibility for applicants. These reforms are aimed at supporting economic activity and promoting tourism while maintaining the security and integrity of the visa system.
Key changes to the visa process:
Submission Requirements: Applicants no longer need to submit their passport when applying for a visa. Instead, you will need to submit a certified copy of your passport's biography page during the application stage. Passport Verification: Applicants must physically present their passport for verification and confirmation during the process. Visa issuance: Once approved, you will need to submit your passport for the visa to be affixed.
These changes aim to improve the customer experience while maintaining the robustness of the visa system.
This development coincides with South Africa's broader visa reforms, which focus on balancing national security with achieving travel and economic growth.