Visa Reform Order (South Sea Islands)
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| Original Title: | Visa Reform Order (South Sea Islands) |
| Jurisdiction: | South Sea Islands |
| Ratified: | February 10th 1691 |
| Date effective: | February 10th 1691 |
| Purpose: | Human Rights declaration. |
| Amendments: | Superseded by the Visa Reform Act 1691. |
The Visa Reform Order (South Sea Islands) was an Executive order enacted by the Lieutenant Governor of the South Sea Islands on February 10th 1691. While the order was signed issued to expedite a change in the visa system of the territory, it was superseded the following day by Visa Reform Act (1691). The Act uses the same wording as the order that preceded it.
Context
During negotiations with the Kingdom of Byalia regarding the exchange of ambassadors, a disagreement arose regarding visa arrangements for tourists. While Byalia was able to offer a visa on arrival scheme for tourists from the South Sea Islands, the absence of such a visa scheme in the Commonwealth meant that a reciprocal offer could not be made. Recognising that the tourist visa scheme of the South Sea Islands was out of step with international norms, and believing it to be discourteous not to make a reciprocal offer to Byalia, the Lieutenant Governor issued the Order after consultation with members of the Legislative Assembly.
The following day, after negotiations with Byalia were concluded, the Legislative Assembly formally endorsed the decision by issuing a legislative act.
Text of the Act
Preamble
Whereas, the people and government of the South Sea Islands value the friendship of both the Kingdom of Byalia and other international partners.
Acknowledging, that visa upon arrival schemes have become the norm amongst the friendly and outward-looking nations of Micras.
Believing, that the introduction of such a scheme would be beneficial and without detriment to the South Sea Islands.
Understanding, that time considerations necessitate the exercise of Executive authority.
Resolving, to introduce immediately a visa upon arrival scheme for tourists from friendly nations.
Resolving, to seek the support of the Legislative Assembly for these measures at the earliest opportunity.
Article one: definition of visa upon arrival
Citizens and permanent residents of nations given "visa upon arrival" status will be exempt from the requirement to apply for a tourist visa in advance of their arrival in the South Sea Islands. Instead, a fast-tracked visa application process will take place at the port or airport of entry, allowing for easier tourist access to the Commonwealth. The fast-tracked process shall, nevertheless, include accelerated criminal record investigations to safeguard the well being of the Commonwealth.
Article two: duration and conditions of stay
Recipients of a visa upon arrival may stay in the South Sea Islands for a maximum of 90 days in any calendar year. The visa is issued for tourism purposes; recipients may not seek or be granted employment, or purchase immovable property during their stay.
Article three: eligibility
Citizens and permanent residents of nations with a Diplomatic Mission in the South Sea Islands are eligible to apply for and be granted a visa upon arrived, with the exception of those with serious criminal records or those who are deemed to pose a threat to the peace and security of the Commonwealth.
Article four: practical implementation
A secure visa is to be affixed in the passport of the recipient. The recipient may be asked by police of border security to present the visa as proof of legal entry into the Commonwealth.
Ratification
This Executive Order is hereby enacted upon the affixing of the Lieutenant Governor's signature on behalf of His Royal Majesty the King.
G.Middlemore, February 10th 1691
