South Africa eases visa rules for Nigerian tourists, business professionals

• South Africa introduces relaxed visa rules for Nigerian tourists and business travellers, eliminating passport submissions for tourist visa applications
• The announcement aligns with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa, emphasising economic collaboration
• South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirms commitment to removing barriers and enhancing the ease of doing business for Nigerian investors

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced new, relaxed visa requirements for Nigerian tourists and business travellers. 

This development is part of the growing bilateral collaboration between the two nations and was revealed at the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC), held in Cape Town. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu co-chaired the session alongside President Ramaphosa.

Simplified visa process for Nigerians

Under the new rules, Nigerian tourists no longer need to submit their passports when applying for a visa, making travel to South Africa more accessible and convenient. Additionally, eligible Nigerian business professionals can apply for five-year multiple-entry visas, reducing the barriers to frequent business trips.

“Our efforts to create a favourable environment include our simplified visa process for Nigerian business people to travel to South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said. “Qualifying Nigerian business people can be granted a five-year multiple-entry visa.”

30 years of diplomatic relations

The announcement coincides with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa. Both leaders highlighted the significance of deepening economic ties and fostering mutual growth.

President Ramaphosa acknowledged the vital role Nigerian businesses play in South Africa’s economy, noting the presence of several Nigerian investments and operations in the country.

“Nigeria is host to a number of South African companies,” he said. “South Africa has always been open to Nigerian business, reflected in the investments and operations established here.”

Removing investment barriers

While celebrating the strides made, Ramaphosa stressed the need to address lingering challenges to bilateral trade and investment. “There is much more we need to do. We need to remove the remaining constraints to greater investment, just as we need to address some of the challenges that companies have experienced,” he added.

He reiterated South Africa’s commitment to improving the business environment, aiming to attract more Nigerian investments across diverse sectors.

“Our government continues with its efforts to improve the ease of doing business in South Africa,” Ramaphosa said. “We want to enable investors to operate, trade, and pursue opportunities in various sectors. We look forward to seeing more Nigerian companies investing in South Africa.”

President Tinubu’s strategic engagements

President Bola Tinubu’s participation in the Bi-National Commission underscores his administration’s focus on strengthening international partnerships. Before he visited South Africa, Tinubu travelled to France, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron.

During his visit to France, Tinubu engaged in discussions centred on agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement, innovation, and energy transition. He also explored opportunities to enhance youth exchange programs and skill development in areas such as automation, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

Tinubu’s engagements in France and South Africa reflect his administration’s commitment to fostering robust global relationships and advancing Nigeria’s strategic interests.

Mixed reactions as UAE resumes visa issuance to Nigerians

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Federal Government had signed an agreement with the United Arab Emirates government to resume visa issuance to Nigerians who wished to travel to the Middle Eastern country. 

The Minister of Information and Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the development on his official page on X, which sparked numerous reactions from Nigerians on the platform.