Dear Ms de Lille

I am a dual Romanian / South African citizen and I would like to highlight an issue that prevents the development of tourism opportunities for South Africa. Romania is an European country which is member of the EU, NATO and the Schengen area having a reasonably high GDP per capita yet it is one of the very few countries that requires a visa to travel to South Africa for tourism. Since a few years ago South Africa closed its embassy and consulate in Romania the only remaining option being the SA consulate in Hungary which is out of the reach of many people. The e-visa option is available however most people having used it report that it is like dealing with a black hole and applications are being rejected for reasons such as not having bank statements stamped on every page which most banks in Europe do no do in any case. In conclusion a great opportunity is being lost here for no good reason at all. I am writing this in the hope that you would use your political influence with the relevant decision makers in the Home affairs department to engender a change of this situation.

Your sincerely