South Africa Opens Electronic Travel Authorisation to Ugandans

KAMPALA — Ugandan nationals holding valid passports can now apply for South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travelling to the country, following the inclusion of Ugandan passport holders in the system.

The development was communicated by the South African High Commission in Kampala to Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a diplomatic note dated 29 September 2026.

According to the note, the Government of South Africa has approved the inclusion of holders of Ugandan passports in its eTA regime following the extension of the electronic travel authorisation system.

“Nationals of the Republic of Uganda who are holders of valid Ugandan passports may apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to undertaking travel to the Republic of South Africa,” the High Commission said.

The authorisation applies to travellers undertaking ordinary visits, including tourism, holidays and short-term business-related activities.

However, approval of an eTA does not by itself guarantee entry into South Africa. Travellers must also comply with all applicable immigration and entry requirements, with admission remaining subject to the terms and conditions applicable to the approved authorisation.

The High Commission requested Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to bring the information to the attention of government ministries, departments and agencies, airlines operating in Uganda, relevant stakeholders and the general public.

How Ugandans can apply

Applications for the South African eTA can be submitted through the official South African Government website identified in the diplomatic note: South Africa eTA application portal.

For technical assistance and enquiries, the High Commission provided the email address ETAenquiries@dha.gov.za. The South African High Commission in Kampala can also be contacted through Kampala.Sahc@dirco.gov.za.

South Africa launched its eTA system as part of a broader digital transformation of immigration services. The system uses digital and biometric technologies to facilitate travel authorisation and strengthen border management.

The South African Government has said the rollout of the ETA is intended to make travel processing faster and more secure while supporting tourism, business and investment.

For Ugandan travellers, the new arrangement means that eligible visitors can seek travel authorisation electronically before departure rather than relying solely on traditional visa-processing procedures.

The diplomatic communication does not, however, specify in the note the cost of the eTA, processing time, validity period or any additional documentation required for Ugandan applicants. Travellers should therefore consult the official application portal for the applicable requirements before making travel arrangements.