Presidency Clarifies President Ramaphosa's Remarks On Simplified Visa Process For Nigerian Nationals

The presidency on Wednesday clarified a misunderstanding about President Cyril Ramaphosa's comments at the SA-Nigeria Bi-National Commission, explaining the changes to the visa application process for Nigerian nationals.

South Africa introduced updated and simplified visa procedures as part of ongoing reforms to boost economic activity, increase tourism and ensure national security. These changes are designed to make the process more efficient and convenient while maintaining the integrity of the visa system.

The presidency added that South African missions in Nigeria have put in place measures to make the visa application process easier for travelers. This is part of the global effort to modernize and streamline visa procedures, SA News reported.

Applicants no longer need to submit their physical passports when applying for a visa. Instead, they only need to provide certified copies of their passport's bio page for the initial processing. However, they must present their physical passports later for verification.

The presidency explained that travelers can apply for their visas without submitting their passports at first. They only need to submit certified copies of the bio page along with their application.

The actual passport should be available for verification during the application process. Once the visa is approved, applicants will need to submit their passports to have the visa affixed.

The presidency also stated that these changes have made the process easier for applicants while maintaining security and the integrity of the visa system.

Speaking during a roundtable discussion between South Africa and Nigeria held in Cape Town on Tuesday, Ramaphosa highlighted that both countries have great potential for collaboration due to their strategic positions in their regions.

He mentioned that Nigeria is the main destination for South African exports and investments in West Africa, but there is still work to be done to improve trade and business relations between the two nations.

Ramaphosa pointed out that South Africa has a large trade deficit with Nigeria, mainly because of its imports of Nigerian oil and gas. He emphasized the need to diversify trade to create a more balanced and mutually beneficial partnership.

He also expressed encouragement by the presence of South African companies in Nigeria and welcomed Nigerian companies in South Africa.

The president acknowledged that there are still challenges in both countries' business environments that can limit investment growth and affect company operations.