South Africans have just gained another visa-free entry point into Europe: Estonia.
A new visa-waiver agreement between South Africa and the Baltic nation will allow citizens of both countries to visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, without the need for a visa.
The deal was finalised after diplomatic talks between Estonia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna, and South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber.
Estonia to welcome South Africans
Estonia’s ambassador to South Africa, Daniel Schaer, welcomed the move, saying it would make travel easier for both tourists and entrepreneurs.
He highlighted Estonia’s reputation as a digital powerhouse, also noting that the country offers fertile ground for South African start-ups and tech firms looking to expand into Europe.
Here’s a look at what South Africans can expect in Estonia:
Where else in Europe can South Africans visit without a visa?
Estonia joins a growing list of European countries that allow South Africans to travel visa-free for short stays. These include:
- Georgia
- Kosovo
- Russian Federation
While most European Union countries still require a Schengen visa, agreements like the one with Estonia are being hailed as small but significant steps in expanding South Africans’ travel freedom.
For business leaders and tourists, the new agreement makes the Baltic states more accessible, opening the door to new cultural as well as economic opportunities.
