This new directive does however only apply to travellers who are passport holders of African countries. This special visa extension allows foreign nationals to enter and exit the country an unlimited number of times in a ten year period, subject certain conditions – one of which is that the holder’s visit should not be less than 90 days per entry.

In an effort to regulate this process, Minister Malusi Gigaba has indicated that the concession will not apply to first-time applicants. Other applicants will be required to substantiate their claims of being bona fide frequent business travellers or established academics as their applications will be heavily scrutinised.

The terms of this extended visa are similar to those that have been granted to foreign nationals of non-African countries. However foreign nationals from countries outside Africa are need only stay for 30 days at a time.

“This will facilitate better business relations by easing the burden off of business travellers who were, historically, required to obtain visitor visas prior to travelling to South Africa. These changes aim to strengthen economic and diplomatic relations on the African continent while ultimately aiding the development of each state,” said the Department of Home Affairs in a statement.

The Department also commented that the extended long term visitor’s visa for will be strictly regulated to maintain its integrity.

Applicants will be required to submit relevant supporting documentation with their application. Here your immigration expert will be able to advise you on what documents will be needed and will complete your application on your behalf.

Applicants may expect to furnish documents serving as proof of their business interest or academic qualifications.