PH
It will soon be possible for all Kenyans to visit South Africa without visas.
South Africa Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba said his country is considering removing the requirement for Kenyan nationals as a way of deepening bilateral ties between the two nations.
Speaking to News24 in Nairobi on Tuesday after meeting with Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery, Gigaba also announced new regulations that will make it easier for Kenyans to visit his country.
“ At the meeting, we addressed issues surrounding visas which have made it difficult for not only Kenyans but other Africans to visit South Africa. We are happy we reached an agreement and agreed on a number of issues that will make traveling easier,” he said.
“We are consulting deeply and strengthening our relationships. With time after assessing all the risks, we shall gradually scrap off the visa requirements for Kenyans,” he said.
Mr Gigabo explained that they have waived visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports who wish to tour the south African nation and also reduced the service fee for visa application from USD 71 to USD 49.
“Frequent travelers to our country from Kenya will now get a three year multiple entry visa. Business people and scholars will get a 10 year multiple entry visas, while that of students will be aligned to their course of study,” revealed the Minister.
He made the remarks at a press briefing in Nairobi. He was flanked by South African High Commissioner to Kenya, Ms Koleka Mqulwana.
