Ministers to probe impact of new visa regulations

President Jacob Zuma made the announcement in Pretoria earlier today.

Among the new immigration rules is a requirement for parents and guardians travelling in or out of the country with children under 17 to carry an unabridged birth certificate. 

Foreigners planning to visit the country now also need to apply for visas in person at South African embassies abroad. 

There has been a drop in tourist numbers this year which tourism officials have blamed on the new regulations. 

Zuma says the new committee will look into this.

''The IMC will address the unintended consequences of the new immigration regulations on various sectors including tourism and investment. The team is chaired by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa,'' he said.

The committee will comprise Ministers of Tourism, Home Affairs, Trade and Industry, Social Development and Small Business Development.

(File photo: Gallo Images)