The Department of Home Affairs has announced a new rule to make applying for visas easier.
Story Summary:
- Home Affairs issued a new directive: It bans immigration officials from asking for extra documents when people apply for visas.
- Only three documents are required: Applicants need to provide their passport, return ticket, and bank statements.
- The goal is to simplify the process: Home Affairs wants to make the visa process faster and easier for travellers.
Home Affairs introduces simplified visa process
Issued on Wednesday, 8 October 2024, the directive prohibits immigration officials from requesting unauthorised documents, such as marriage certificates or death certificates, from visa applicants.
The move is expected to make the visa process more efficient and less burdensome for travellers.
The new directive, signed by Director-General Livhuwani Tommy Makhode, applies to all South African diplomatic missions abroad and the e-Visa platform, which processes Port of Entry visas.
This visa allows foreign visitors to stay in South Africa for up to 90 days.
The directive reiterates that only three types of documents are required for such visa applications:
- A statement detailing the purpose and duration of the visit.
- A valid return airline ticket or proof of reservation.
- Proof of sufficient financial means, provided via three months of certified bank statements.
According to the department, officials had added these unauthorised requirements, leading to delays in processing and confusion among applicants.
The directive instructs officials to immediately remove such requirements from application forms, websites, and communications with applicants.
Visa documentation agencies have also been advised to stop requiring these additional documents.
By limiting the required documentation, the Department hopes to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and simplify the visa process for travellers.