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A video circulating on social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Facebook, claims that Europe has banned South African citizens from entering the continent.
- Tunachokijua
- There are claims and videos circulating on social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Facebook, alleging that Europe has banned South African citizens from entering the continent following the resurgence of xenophobic tensions in South Africa in 2026.
Background
In 2026, some South African citizens called for people they considered foreigners to return to their countries of origin. At some points, these anti-migrant sentiments escalated into violence. The protests were largely driven by claims that foreigners were responsible for unemployment and rising crime rates in South Africa.
Verdict: False
An online investigation found no credible evidence that the European Union (EU) or any European government has announced or implemented a ban preventing South African citizens from entering Europe.
Searches of official statements from the European Union and European governments found no announcement imposing a blanket travel prohibition on South African nationals.
Similarly, no reputable international or South African media organisation has reported that Europe has banned South Africans from entering the continent.
Therefore, the claim that Europe has banned South African citizens due to renewed xenophobic tensions is false.
