Visa challenges paint SA as an unwelcoming destination

FOLLOWING Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi’s statement on the leaking of the department’s internal circular on visas, the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (FEDHASA) has said that although the circular was intended for internal use, it has had severe consequences for travel to South Africa.

FEDHASA Chairperson Rosemary Anderson, the statement caused jitters among the so-called “swallows”, tourists who migrate seasonally in search of warmer climates, and dented the image of South Africa’s tourism sector.

The minister came out in defence of his department and said that Home Affairs would never do anything to jeopardise or risk the tourism industry in the country.

He said that that circular shouldn’t have been issued, as the matters it was trying to clarify could’ve easily been addressed in the normal course of operations.

Anderson said that the delay in addressing and retracting the circular allowed for widespread dissemination of negative experiences, solidifying a perception of South Africa as unwelcoming.

She said the incident may not only have affected the immediate plans of international visitors but has also sown seeds of doubt about South Africa’s openness as a tourist destination.

“This underscores a recurrent theme in our visa regime history – well-meaning policies that inadvertently deter tourism and tarnish our reputation on the global stage,” said Anderson.

She said that the specific targeting of “swallows” who contribute significantly to the country’s economy through extended stays, highlights a missed opportunity in the country’s visa policies.