WILL RELAXED VISA REGULATIONS BOOST TOURISM IN SOUTH AFRICA?

predictable, for a country that in recent times has seen millions of visitors from both traditional and emerging source markets descending on South Africa to experience a combination of man-made and natural wonders, dotting its length and breadth. Many outsiders arriving in the country on business trips, especially those unaware of the country’s infrastructural facilities and standards, comparable with the first world, returned to their homes with lasting impressions to tell remarkable stories of world class development. However, despite the reputation of its famed allure, South Africa’s tourism industry began to experience gloom. That reality left the tourism industry fraternity struggling with the situation. Industry business owners and executives who had become accustomed to brisk business and massive profits were experiencing sleepless nights.

UPDATE ON NEWLY RELAXED SA VISA REGULATIONS

The low tourism statistics were attributed to the visa regulation passed in 2015. It required parents to carry unabridged birth certificates for accompanying children, as well as letters of permission from parents that were not travelling. Concerns were ardently raised by most tourism industry players. They pointed out that the South African government’s decision to introduce unfriendly visa regulations was largely to blame for “hurting” tourism businesses. Amid loud outcries, the ruling hit the tourism industry hard, threatening its vibrancy and viability. The fact that global entertainer and British actor Idris Elba’s daughter was a victim of the new requirement further amplified the calls to revisit the entry prerequisite. To