‘No Ban On Nigerians’ — South Africa Dismisses Visa Stoppage Rumours

The South African Consulate in Lagos has debunked reports that it has stopped issuing visas to Nigerians amid anti-migrant protests in South Africa.

Speaking on the sidelines of a round-table by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, with the theme “South Africa’s Xenophobia in Comparative Perspective”, the Consul General, Prof. Bobby Moroe, said visa processing remains ongoing.

“Visas continue to be issued in spite of the ongoing protests and Nigerians are still visiting the country for tourism and other legitimate purposes,” Moroe said.

He added that Nigerians would “never be discriminated against” under the current circumstances.

“No basis will justify why your visa is rejected except that you, for one reason or another may not have qualified with the requirements of the visa,” he stated.

The Consul General also announced the introduction of South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation, ETA, a new digital system aimed at simplifying travel to the country.

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According to him, the ETA reduces documentation requirements and allows prospective travellers to apply via their mobile devices, making the process “faster, safer and more convenient.”

The assurance comes as concerns grew over possible restrictions following recent anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa.