By Wamala Sipirian
Published: October 1, 2026
Ugandan passport holders can now apply online for permission to travel to South Africa under the country’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, according to the South African High Commission in Kampala.
The mission said the South African Government has approved the inclusion of Ugandan passport holders in the ETA regime following an expansion of the electronic travel authorisation system.
Under the new arrangement, eligible Ugandans with valid passports can apply for an ETA before travelling to South Africa.
Travellers whose applications are approved and who satisfy the applicable immigration and entry requirements may use the authorisation for ordinary visits, including tourism, holidays and short-term business activities.
The High Commission said the ETA is issued subject to applicable terms and conditions, meaning approval does not by itself guarantee entry into South Africa.
Online Travel Process
The move allows eligible Ugandan travellers to complete the travel authorisation process electronically before their journey.
South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has been developing the ETA system as part of a broader digital transformation of its immigration services. The department says the system is intended to enable travellers to register online, submit applications electronically and receive a digital authorisation linked to their passport information.
The South African High Commission in Kampala has asked Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to circulate information about the new arrangement to government ministries, agencies, airlines operating in Uganda, other stakeholders and the public.
Travellers should continue to check the applicable requirements before travelling, including passport validity and any other conditions imposed by South African immigration authorities.
The South African High Commission’s immigration guidance lists requirements including a valid passport, two unused passport pages, a yellow fever certificate, a return or onward ticket and evidence of sufficient funds for relevant visa applications.
ETA Does Not Remove Entry Requirements
Approval of an electronic travel authorisation does not remove South Africa’s other immigration and border-control requirements.
Travellers may still be required to present their passports and other supporting documents at the point of entry and must comply with the conditions attached to their authorisation.
The South African Department of Home Affairs describes the ETA as part of its move toward automated digital processing of travel authorisations and visas.
The development is expected to give eligible Ugandan travellers an additional online route for arranging travel to South Africa before departure.