Visa Process to South Africa now Seven Days for Nigerian Visitors
The Consul-General of South Africa to Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, has announced a dramatic reduction in the visa processing time for Nigerians, a significant development aimed at strengthening diplomatic and trade relations between South Africa and Nigeria.
Instead of the previous six-month waiting period, Nigerians can now receive their visas within seven days.
This announcement was made during the July Breakfast Meeting, sponsored by South African Airways, which focused on the theme “Diplomatic Relations Between South Africa and Nigeria-Prospects and Challenges.”
The event took place recently in Lagos, drawing attention from various stakeholders in the diplomatic and business communities.
Prof. Moroe explained that the new expedited visa process requires applicants to attach photocopies of their travel passports to their applications.
Applicants will then wait for a call to present the original document for visa issuance. This streamlined procedure is expected to enhance travel and economic engagements between the two nations.
Highlighting the robust trade relationship, Moroe provided statistics from 2022 showing that the trade volume was significantly in favour of Nigeria.
Nigeria’s exports to South Africa were valued at $72.1 billion, primarily comprising rubber, petroleum, and crude oil.
In contrast, South Africa’s exports to Nigeria amounted to $447 million, with significant contributions from magnetic rubber stoppers used in industrial applications, as well as pears and apples, which alone accounted for $43.2 million.
Moroe emphasised the high consumption of South African fruits in Nigeria, attributing the substantial trade volume to the larger Nigerian market.
He also underscored the potential for further growth, especially by increasing the presence of Nigerian companies in South Africa.
“Considering the population of Nigeria and South Africa, it makes sense that the trade balance is in your favor, but I think more can be done, especially in increasing the number of Nigerian companies in South Africa,” Moroe stated.
This initiative is expected to foster closer economic ties and enhance the mutual benefits arising from the bilateral relationship between South Africa and Nigeria.
