WHEN the new immigration regulations were implemented in 2014, they were met with near-universal condemnation. Parents were outraged at the requirements for travelling minors, the tourism sector was in a state of near-panic as arrivals dwindled, thanks to prohibitively onerous visa requirements, and investors and business people were unsure if their freedom of movement would be impeded. It was an untenable situation.In response, an interministerial committee was established to tackle some of the main issues. The immediate measures proposed by the committee included:Implementing systems to capture biometric data at key ports of entry, with pilot programmes at OR Tambo, King Shaka and Cape Town international airports;• Introducing an accreditation programme for tourism companies from fellow Brics countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China);• Considering a long-term multiple-entry visa for a period ranging from three months to three years to accommodate business travellers and academic...
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