There are no plans for New Zealand to offer visa-free travel for South African tourists, despite the fact that the African country recently revised its entry requirements for Kiwis.

Immigration Minister Iain Lees-Galloway called the change "very welcome news", but says nothing will change for NZ-bound South Africans.



"While New Zealand does not typically offer visa-free access based on reciprocity, New Zealand has been working closely with South African officials on visa issues intending to improve the experience for New Zealanders and South Africans travelling in both directions," says Mr Lees-Galloway.



"The Government has no plans at this stage to review visitor visa requirements for South Africans coming to New Zealand."



South Africa's Department of Home Affairs announced on Wednesday (local time) that New Zealand tourists would soon be able to visit the country without needing a visa.



The country also waived visa regulations for citizens of Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Saudia Arabia, Cuba, Ghana and Sao Tome and Principe.



It is not yet clear exactly when the new regulations will come into effect for New Zealanders, with current visa rules continuing to apply in the meantime.



Newshub.







