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

As South Africans eye international travel, particularly to the United States, apprehensions about visa-related issues are mounting.

With diplomatic relations between the US and South Africa currently 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.

This cultural and economic shift has put traveller confidence in a precarious position, as having a visa does not guarantee entry.

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. 

Dos of visa travel

• Double-check personal information and ensure consistency across all documents.
• Select the right visa type and tailor the visa application to your purpose of travel to avoid complications.
• Prepare detailed documentation and have a clear record of your travel plans, including confirmed accommodation and return tickets when required.
• Provide proof of funds while being ready to show evidence of finances to support your stay.
• Allocate time for visa processing, including preparing ahead, taking into account varying processing times.
• Disclose previous visa refusals as transparency in your visa application may prevent future complications.
• Consider flexible travel fares and book flexible or unrestricted flights, accommodating potential visa delays.
• Invest in comprehensive travel insurance and make sure the policy covers various contingencies; read the terms carefully.
• Seek professional advice so a knowledgeable travel advisor can streamline the process and provide targeted support.
• Be prepared to explain your travel purpose, as providing clear and consistent communication with border officials is crucial.
• Keep hard and digital copies of documents and ensure easy access to important papers during travel.

Don’ts of visa travel

• Don’t apply for the wrong visa type, and avoid tourist visas if your visit involves work, study, or other business-related activities.
• Don’t assume a transit visa is unnecessary. Check if a visa is required, even for airport layovers.
• Avoid travelling with near-expiring documents. Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity beyond your departure date.
• Do not provide vague answers. Be specific and consistent in your explanations to border control.
• Don’t rush the visa application process. Patience can prevent errors that lead to denial.
• Don’t believe a visa guarantees entry. It only authorises you to apply for entry; the final decision rests with immigration officials.
• Don’t neglect the fine print of insurance. Understand what your travel insurance covers and excludes.
• Avoid last-minute visa appointments and plan accordingly to secure timely application submissions.
• Don’t travel without hard copies. Always have printed versions of relevant documents readily accessible.

Lastly, Machiri notes that being informed and prepared are essential steps to ensuring a smooth passage through immigration.

“The majority of international travellers navigate the process without incident, with the right precautions and diligent preparation playing pivotal roles,” she says.