If you have been planning to travel to South Africa but the lack of direct flights and long visa-processing time is discouraging you, then we have good news! As per reports, South Africa is in talks with the Indian government and three major airlines to start direct flights between the two countries. That’s not all, they are also trying to expedite visas for Indian tourists. Scroll on to know more about this.
South Africa Plans Faster Visa Process For Indian Tourists
With the aim to boost tourism, South Africa is taking steps to simplify travel for Indians. While talking to CNBC TV18, Patricia de Lille, the Minister of Tourism for the Republic of South Africa mentioned that they are planning to replace the existing e-visa system with a new electronic travel agreement. With this new system, they will be able to complete visa processing within two to three days, when applied through accredited tour operators.
South Africa aims to use tourism as a major contributor to their economic growth. So, keeping in mind the long cultural and historical ties between the two countries, they are working on a new visa process that will help them issue faster visas for Indian travellers. More details about this are awaited.
Also Read: South Africa To Launch A 90-Day Visa Waiver For Indians; Here’s All About The Visa-Free Access
Talks About Direct Flights Also Underway
Currently, there are no direct flights from India to South Africa. According to The Financial Express, international airlines like Emirates, Kenya Airways, Air Mauritius, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Air Seychelles, RwandAir, and Qatar Airways are currently operating limited layover flights between the two countries.
However, Patricia de Lille has mentioned that they are now trying to establish direct flights between South Africa and India. They are pursuing Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet to commence direct flights between the two countries. With direct flights from Mumbai or Delhi, travel time between these two destinations will be reduced to just 8-9 hours, which currently takes a minimum of 18 hours!
Also Read: AB de Villiers Thinks Ranveer Singh Will Enjoy South Africa; Shares Experiences Of Meeting Him
What are your thoughts on this development? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)