Not long after President Ramaphosa announced visa reforms to revitalise tourism, South Africa has taken a major step in boosting tourism by introducing group visa applications for travelers from India and China, the Department of Home Affairs announced on Wednesday.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
According to SANews, the initiative, launched under the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), aims to simplify the visa process and attract more visitors from these key markets.
On Wednesday, 12 February, 65 selected tour operators gained access to the pilot program, allowing them to apply for group visas on behalf of Chinese and Indian nationals. Tourists no longer need to visit South Africa’s missions abroad or stand in long queues, making the process more efficient.
‘The fact that Home Affairs took the TTOS from conceptualization to implementation in less than six months demonstrates our commitment to embracing digital transformation and playing our role as an economic enabler to create jobs,’ said Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber. He added that for every 12 tourists attracted by the TTOS, one new job is created in South Africa.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille also praised the scheme, noting that the enhanced visa regime, including electronic travel authorizations and digital nomad visas, would help South Africa achieve its economic growth and job creation targets.
‘These visa regime enhancements will lead to increased arrivals to South Africa which will in turn assist government to achieve the goals of the GNU to drive inclusive economic growth and create jobs’
Currently, Chinese and Indian tourists represent just 1.8% and 3.9% of international arrivals, respectively. By improving accessibility, South Africa hopes to significantly increase these figures and strengthen its tourism sector.
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