With the promise of faster visa processing and ongoing discussions on direct flight connectivity, Indian travelers and investors are optimistic about a new era of strengthened bilateral engagement between India and South Africa
Indian businesses and diplomats in South Africa have welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement to reform the country’s visa system, a move aimed at boosting tourism and investment from India and China, reported Mint with inputs from news agency PTI.
Speaking during his State of the Nation Address at Cape Town City Hall, Ramaphosa emphasized the government’s commitment to streamlining the visa process through digitalisation.
“As part of our reform agenda, we will continue to enhance our visa system to make it easier for skilled professionals to invest in our country and grow tourism in South Africa,” he stated. He further announced the upcoming launch of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which will provide a secure and fully digital visa application process.
“This system will leverage artificial intelligence and automation to reduce corruption risks and accelerate visa processing times. We have successfully cleared over 90% of the backlog of more than 300,000 visa applications,” Ramaphosa added, underscoring the government’s commitment to efficiency.
The initiative has been lauded by Indian companies operating in South Africa, which have long voiced concerns about visa delays, sometimes leading to investment redirections within the African continent.
Mahesh Kumar, Consul General of India in Johannesburg, expressed optimism about the new measures, stating, “There have been challenges related to both visas and direct flights. However, we appreciate the collaborative efforts between the governments of India and South Africa to resolve these issues. The South African government’s commitment at the highest level is commendable and will bring our two societies closer, fostering stronger business and tourism ties.”
Industry experts believe the visa reforms will significantly impact tourism and aviation connectivity between India and South Africa. Ashish Sharma, CEO of 24 By 7 Travel, a company specializing in travel between the two nations, highlighted the potential benefits of the updated visa system.
“The digitalisation of South Africa’s visa process is a much-needed step forward. It will not only speed up approvals but also improve accuracy and eliminate errors in visa issuance. This ensures that genuine applicants receive their visas on time, ultimately contributing to South Africa’s tourism economy.”
— Gourish Chakravorthy, President of the Bengali Association of South Africa
“This change will boost travel from a major market like India. South Africa offers immense tourism potential with its favorable climate, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural similarities. However, cumbersome visa procedures and the lack of direct flights have hindered its full potential. The visa reforms address a key barrier, and we are hopeful that direct flights between India and South Africa will follow soon,” Sharma said.
He added that major Indian airlines are set to receive new aircraft deliveries in 2026, which could pave the way for direct flight operations between the two countries.
Gourish Chakravorthy, President of the Bengali Association of South Africa and CEO of Ion Exchange Safic, a joint venture between India and South Africa, also welcomed the initiative, emphasizing its impact on tourism growth.
“The digitalisation of South Africa’s visa process is a much-needed step forward. It will not only speed up approvals but also improve accuracy and eliminate errors in visa issuance. This ensures that genuine applicants receive their visas on time, ultimately contributing to South Africa’s tourism economy,” Chakravorthy stated.
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