SA unfazed by US visa policies impacting Zimbabwe

THE South African government appears unmoved by the recent visa ban imposed by the US embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe, even as US President Donald Trump continues to disrupt global diplomacy with tariff increases and immigration policies seven months into his second term.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

The US has suspended all routine immigrant and non-immigrant visa services to Zimbabwe due to concerns about misuse and overstays.

However, the issuance of other visa types remains unaffected.

Although South Africa was exempt from new Trump visa restrictions on SADC countries, a new policy has been implemented for Malawi and Zambia.

Citizens of these nations are now required to pay a bond of $5 000 (R88 656) to $15 000 (R265 967) to travel to the US.

Additionally, the citizens are required to use one of three airports - Boston's Logan International, New York’s JFK International, or Dulles International near Washington D.C. - for both arrival and departure.

When asked whether South African citizens should be worried, Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) spokesperson Chrispin Phiri gave a brief response: