The Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has welcomed South Africa’s inclusion of Ugandan passport holders in its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, saying it will ease travel and strengthen bilateral ties.
In a post on X, Gen Kainerugaba said eligible Ugandans can now apply online for short visits of up to 90 days without visiting a South African diplomatic mission or visa centre.
“This process is faster, more convenient and reliable. This is a practical and welcome result of our strong bilateral cooperation,” he wrote.
He thanked the two countries’ foreign ministers for their efforts to secure the arrangement.
“Ugandan and South African friendship and co-operation remains strong,” he added.
According to South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, the ETA allows eligible travellers to visit for tourism or other visitor purposes without obtaining a traditional visitor’s visa. The authorisation links to the traveller’s passport and permits multiple trips during its validity. It does not permit employment or repeated extended stays for other purposes.
The department lists four airports through which applicants with valid ordinary passports can enter: O. R. Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, Lanseria International Airport and King Shaka International Airport.
Applicants must create an account, photograph their passport, answer questions about themselves and their trip, take a live photograph and pay the application fee before submitting. The portal says applicants should receive an instant outcome.
