The South African government has dismissed reports that it has suspended visa issuance to Nigerian citizens, assuring Nigerians that its consular services remain operational despite renewed tensions over xenophobic attacks and anti-migrant protests.
The clarification was issued by the South African Consulate in Lagos, following reports circulating online that Pretoria had stopped processing Nigerian visa applications amid growing anti-foreigner sentiment in parts of South Africa.
South Africa’s Consul General in Lagos, Prof. Bobby Moroe, reportedly said there was no blanket suspension targeting Nigerians. He explained that Nigerians who meet the requirements set by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs can continue to apply for and receive the relevant travel documents.
The clarification is significant because the reports emerged against the backdrop of renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where Nigerian nationals and other foreign nationals have previously been targets of anti-immigrant campaigns and attacks.
South Africa introduces electronic travel authorisation
Rather than suspending visas, the South African authorities are moving towards a more digital immigration process through an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.
The system is intended to simplify aspects of the travel-approval process and allow eligible travellers to submit information electronically. The consulate’s position is that the introduction of the system should not be interpreted as a restriction specifically directed at Nigerians.
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