Visa woes no more: a guide to smooth travels for South Africans

AS SOUTH Africans eye international travel, particularly to the US, apprehensions about visa-related issues are mounting.

- ZAMANDOSI CELE

With diplomatic relations between the US and South Africa under strain, even valid visa holders are questioning their welcome in America.

Recent statistics from the US International Trade Administration further underline this anxiety, revealing a nearly 10% decline in international air visitors to the States in March alone, compared to last year.

Lynette Machiri, customer experience leader at Flight Centre South Africa, emphasises that “customs and Border Protection officers make the final call at the airport”.

Machiri says this assertion rings true not only for the US but for every global destination. She notes that the onus is on travellers to ensure that they meticulously prepare their documentation and understand travel requirements.

Here are essential dos and don'ts to navigate visa travel, according to Machiri.