Applying for a visa can be a tedious and costly exercise and if your visa application is denied, it could be a frustrating one too.
Online booking platform Travelstart has identified a few ways you can ensure you’re all set for a stress-free trip.
Also read: US visa applicants required to share social media info
Tips for a smooth visa application process
1. Ensure that your passport is valid beyond your return date (at least three months) with enough empty pages for new visas and immigration stamps before beginning a visa application
2. Familiarise yourself with the visa regulations of the country you are applying to visit as they differ between countries
3. International flights that include a stopover are frequently cheaper than flying direct, multiple stops can present challenges such as transit visa requirements. Even if a passenger’s end point is visa-free, the rules governing stops in between must be checked to avoid delays and disappointment.
4. Emergency passports are risky travel documents and many countries do not accept them. The Department of Home Affairs recommends travellers check with the relevant authorities of the country they are visiting before applying for an emergency passport/travel document.
5. An individual’s online and social media presence is a decisive factor when it comes to job applications and the same applies to visas.
All of this admin aside, South African passport holders can visit 101 countries visa-free (68 visa-free entry, 33 visa on arrival). Among these destinations are Botswana, Brazil, Ethiopia, Hong Kong, Israel, Kenya, Mauritius, Qatar, Singapore, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
All these countries offer exceptional tourism opportunities and, depending on the airline you choose, are accessible on non-stop flights departing from at least one of SA’s three major airports.
Also read: Visa red tape frustrates SA travellers
Image: Brand South Africa
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