South Africa: Government Reverses Controversial Tourist Departure Directive
The South African Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has clarified that a controversial December memo directing tourists to leave South Africa by the end of February was only meant as internal guidance for border officials, not official policy.
Motsoaledi stated in Parliament yesterday that tourists who have already applied for visa extensions and hold valid receipts can disregard the memo. "We are happy the minister has rectified this," said Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille. "The aim is to streamline visa processes for more countries and diversify our tourism offering."
“This is incredibly good news,” says David Frost, CEO of SATSA.
As it stands, tourists from over 130 countries can visit South Africa visa-free. Standard visitors' and tourists' visas allow stays of 30 to 90 days, renewable for another 90 days up to a total of 180 days.
Motsoaledi conceded the December memo had caused widespread confusion and concern among 'swallows', seasonal European visitors who reside in South Africa for extended periods. He reassured that South Africa remains open to tourists but said clearer guidelines for officials had inadvertently been shared more widely than intended.
"The directive touched on issues that did not need guidance and ended up causing misunderstandings," Motsoaledi admitted. "South Africa welcomes tourists."
Source: South African Government