south africa tourist visa uganda

South African Visa Application For Ugandan Citizens

South african visas for ugandan citizens.

Ugandans looking to travel to South Africa for a temporary stay may apply for a South African visa. A visa application must be submitted prior to travelling to South Africa. Start by selecting the visa option that most suits the reason for your visit and then submit a visa application to our team of immigration lawyers to process.

VISITOR VISA

A South African visitor visa allows a non-visa exempt foreign national to visit South Africa.

There are three different types of South African work visa; the General Work Visa, the Critical Skills Work Visa, and the Intra-Company Transfer Visa. See the requirements for each here.

BUSINESS VISA

A South African business visa affords a foreign national the right to reside and establish or invest in a business in South Africa

CORPORATE VISA

A South African corporate visa allows a corporate entity or farm the right to employ a prescribed amount of foreign nationals.

A South African study visa allows a foreign national to reside in the Republic whilst studying at a South African institution of primary, secondary or tertiary education.

LIFE PARTNER VISA

A South African life partner visa allows a foreign national to reside in South Africa with their South African citizen or permanent resident partner (boyfriend/girlfriend).

SPOUSE VISA

A South African spouse visa allows a foreign national to live in South Africa with a SA permanent resident wife or husband

RETIREMENT VISA

A South African retired person visa allows a foreign national to live and retire in South Africa.

EXCHANGE VISA

A South African exchange visa allows a foreign national who is participating in a programme of cultural, economic or social exchange to reside temporarily in South Africa.

TREATY VISA

A South African treaty visa gives foreigners permission to enter South Africa to participate in programmes that have been agreed upon by South Africa and their respective countries.

RELATIVE VISA

A South African relative's visa is available to the biological or adoptive children or biological or step parents of South African citizens or permanent residents.

MEDICAL TREATMENT VISA

A South African medical treatment visa allows a foreign national to undergo specialised medical care in South Africa.

VOLUNTEER VISA

A South African volunteer visa may be issued to a foreign national involved in unpaid volunteer or charity work within the country.

A South African crew visa may be issued to a member of the crew of any transport conveyance.

South African Permits For Ugandan Citizens

Ugandans looking to travel to South Africa for a permanant stay may apply for a South African permit. Start by selecting the permit option that most suites the reason for your stay and then submit a permit application to our team of immigation lawyers to process.

To qualify for permanent residence under this category an individual must have been a spouse of a South African citizen or permanent resident for five years.

To qualify for permanent residence under this category you must be the holder of 5 years worth of consecutively issued temporary general, quota or exceptional skills work visas.

To qualify for permanent residence under this category one must be the parent or the child of a South African citizen or permanent resident of South Africa.

To qualify for permanent residence under this category one needs an irrevocable annuity or retirement account which affords an income of at least R37,000 a month for the rest of their life.

To qualify for permanent residence under this category you must have a net worth of R12 million and be willing to pay the Department of Home Affairs' R120,000 application fee.

To qualify for permanent residence under this category one needs a passive income of R37 000 per month from savings, investments, annuities or pension funds.

A foreign national may apply for permanent residence under the refugee category if he or she has held refugee status for a continuous period of five years.

For more information about South African Permanent Residence see the Department of Home Affairs .

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Requirements For South African Visa In Uganda

o be eligible for the South African eVisa, Ugandans must be  visiting for tourism  or other approved activities.

South Africa’s new eVisa is  valid for short stays  in the country. It makes it easier for Ugandans to visit South Africa on holiday.

Ugandan citizens still need to get a visa from the South African embassy to work or stay long-term.

Documents to get a South African eVisa from Uganda

To get a South African visa online from Uganda, travellers must have:

• Ugandan passport  valid for a minimum of 30 days after the date they will leave South Africa
• Email address  to receive notification and the approved eVisa
• Debit or credit card  to pay the South Africa visa fees securely online

Further supporting documents could be requested in some cases.

Ugandans complete the eVisa form online and  submit all documents electronically . Applicants do not need to present paperwork in person at the South African High Commission in Kampala.

South Africa eVisa application from Uganda

Ugandans who meet all  South Africa’s eVisa requirements  can now apply online in 3 steps:

• Complete the South Africa eVisa form
• Pay South Africa visa fees online
• Receive the approved South Africa visa by email

Ugandan citizens can fill out the application form in minutes. South Africa’s  visa processing is fast , applicants receive the approved visa by email.

Information required to apply for a South African eVisa from Uganda

Ugandan travellers need to complete the South African eVisa form with basic  personal information  and  passport details .

Required details include:

• Full name, date of birth, and nationality
• Passport number, issue date, and expiry date
• Date of arrival in South Africa and purpose of the visit

Additional health and security information could be requested.

Ugandans should revise their application carefully before submitting the form. The information provided must  match the Ugandan passport  exactly. Missing data or mistakes could result in processing delays.

Travelling to South Africa from Uganda: entry requirements

Ugandan citizens must present the following documents to South African immigration officials.

• Valid Ugandan passport
• South African visa
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Enough funds to cover the trip
• COVID-19 health documents

Visitors must check the latest COVID-19 entry restrictions in South Africa. Currently, international travellers need to fill out a  health declaration form  and take a pre-departure  COVID-19 test .

A yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from a high-risk area.

Ugandans who have  dual nationality  must get a visa and travel to South Africa using the same passport.

Travelling from Uganda to South Africa with children

Ugandans travelling to South Africa with children under the age of 18 may be asked to present the  child’s birth certificate .

If going to South Africa from Uganda with  just one parent , an affidavit from the other parent, granting their consent for the minor to travel, is required.

South African Embassy in Uganda

Ugandan citizens no longer need to visit a South African embassy to get a visa. Passport holders who meet the eVisa requirements can get their visa for South Africa  100% online .

With the new electronic visa system, Ugandans can submit the visa request from a smartphone, laptop, or another electronic device.

Ugandans who are  not eligible to apply online  need to get a South African consulate visa. The South Africa High Commission in Uganda is at the following address:

15A Nakasero Road,

PO Box 22667

This is the only South African representation in Uganda.

• Uganda visa requirements for South African citizens

If you are a South African traveler planning to visit Uganda, it is important to note that you must obtain a tourist e-visa and meet specific requirements. Firstly, you must have a valid South African passport that will still be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Uganda. Provide a recent passport-sized photograph with a white background. You must also present a flight ticket confirming compliance with your permitted stay in Uganda. Additionally, you must provide proof of accommodation in Uganda, such as hotel reservations or invitation letters from your hosts. Lastly, you will need a Yellow Fever certification, which is mandatory to gain entry into Uganda. For more information on Uganda visa requirements, please continue reading.

South African travelers intending to visit Uganda must get a tourist e-visa. The Ugandan Tourist Visa allows travelers to enter the country for tourism, medical treatment, and family visits. This visa type is for a single entry and remains valid for a maximum duration of three months.((Ministry of Internal Affairs. (2021). East African Tourist Visa. Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda. DCIC Immigration.go.ug. Retrieved March 8, 2024. < https://www.immigration.go.ug/services/tourist-visa >))

Eligible Criteria:

• You must have a valid South African passport that will still be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Uganda. 
• You must also provide a recent passport-sized photograph taken against a white background. 
• You must have a flight ticket to show that you will stay within your permitted stay in Uganda.
• You must provide proof of accommodation in Uganda, such as hotel reservations or host invitation letters.
• It is important to note that Yellow Fever certification is mandatory to gain entry into Uganda.

To obtain a Uganda Tourist Visa, the required documents vary based on the purpose of your visit:

• Passport copy (bio-data page) with at least six months validity
• Travel itinerary/booking
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
• Hotel booking or reservation (if using different accommodation, provide an address)

Business (meetings, conferences):

• Letter of invitation with a clear address and business purpose in Uganda
• Recent passport-size photograph (taken in the last six months)
• The immigration status of the host and individual
• Letter of invitation from the school
• Admission letter from the school
• Status of the host in Uganda

Family Visit:

• Letter of invitation
• Immigration host

If you’re looking for online services to get your Uganda tourist e-visa, check out Visas for Future’s processing service. We make the entire process easy and stress-free with expert assistance. From filling out the form to submission, we guarantee accuracy and compliance with Ugandan immigration rules.

What We’re Offering

If you’re a South African intending to travel to Vietnam, you need an e-visa.((Uganda E-Immigration System. (2024). Visa Exempt Countries. DCIC Immigration.go.ug. Retrieved March 8, 2024. <  https://www.immigration.go.ug/services/visa-exempt-countries >)). Our Vietnam e-visa processing service ensures you will receive your e-visa within three days.

• Multiple-entry fee: $90.14
• Single-entry fee: $84.14
• Duration: 90 days((Uganda E-Immigration System. (2024). Uganda E-Visa . Immigration.go.ug. Retrieved March 8, 2024. < https://visas.immigration.go.ug/#/help/visa >))

Why choose us

Our order forms are easy and simple., we validate your application., we answer your questions..

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Other types of uganda visas available for south africans and their corresponding requirements.

There are different types of e-visas available in Uganda:

Transit e-visa

• A Uganda Transit Visa allows travelers to pass through Uganda on their way to another country, but it is only valid for a maximum of 7 days and cannot be extended.((Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda. (2020). Transit Visa. Immigration.go.ug. Retrieved March 8, 2024.<https://immigration.go.ug/services/transit-visas>))

The documents required for an Uganda Transit Visa are as follows:

• Passport: Make certain that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months beyond your intended arrival date by submitting the bio-data page of the passport.
• Letter Detailing Transit Purpose and Destination Country: You may be required to submit a letter detailing the reasons for transit and specifying the country of destination. This letter should provide a brief and clear overview of your travel intentions.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: In many instances, having a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is obligatory. Confirm that you possess this certificate and that it’s current.
• Recent Passport-Sized Photo: Attach a recent passport-sized photo to your visa application, ensuring it meets the specified criteria of dimensions 2 inches x 2 inches and features a plain white or off-white background.
• NOTE: Accepted file formats include JPEG, PNG, BMP, and PDF.

East Africa e-visa

• The Joint Tourist Visa allows 90 days of travel to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. Visitors cannot work or do business and must follow each country’s laws. This visa is only for tourism and can’t be renewed.((Ministry of Internal Affairs. (2021). East African Tourist Visa. Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda. DCIC Immigration.go.ug. Retrieved March 8, 2024. < https://www.immigration.go.ug/services/east-african-tourist-visa >))

The documents required for an East African Tourist Visa are as follows:

• Travel Itinerary (Detailed tour plan): A comprehensive schedule outlining your travel plans, specifying the places to visit and the duration of your stay at each location.
• Return Ticket: A confirmed round-trip ticket demonstrating your planned journey and intention to depart the East African countries after your visit.
• Vaccination Certificate (Yellow fever): A valid and current certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever is a common requirement to prevent the spreading of the disease.
• Copy of Recent Passport Size Photograph: A clear and recent passport-size photograph meeting specified size and background color requirements.
• Copy of the Passport (Bio-data page): A copy of the bio-data page of your passport, which includes personal information, a photo, and passport details, is crucial for identification purposes.

Importance of knowing the visa requirements

Knowing and following visa requirements is vital for several reasons:

• Smooth Travel Planning: Understanding visa requirements helps travelers plan their journeys effectively, ensuring all necessary documents are ready before departure.
• Legal Compliance: Adhering to visa regulations ensures compliance with the destination country’s laws. Failure to meet requirements may lead to denied entry, fines, or other legal consequences.
• Avoiding Delays and Rejections: Knowledge of visa requirements assists in preparing accurate applications, reducing the chance of delays or rejections due to missing or incorrect documentation.
• Preventing Travel Disruptions: Meeting visa requirements lowers the risk of travel disruptions, such as denial of boarding or challenges at immigration checkpoints.
• Enhanced Safety and Security: Complying with visa regulations contributes to safety and security, as travelers know and adhere to the destination country’s rules.
• Facilitating a Positive Travel Experience: Understanding visa requirements contributes to a positive travel experience, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their journey without unnecessary stress or complications.
• Saves Time and Money: Knowing visa requirements in advance helps avoid last-minute applications or additional fees associated with rushed processing.

Restrictions and limitations for South African citizens when applying for a Uganda visa

South African citizens seeking a Uganda visa may face specific restrictions. Key considerations include:

• Tourist Visa (Single Entry)
• Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry – East African Tourist Visa)
• Business Visa
• Validity and Duration: Understand the visa’s validity and stay duration; some, like the East African Tourist Visa, offer a one-year validity.
• Entebbe International Airport (EBB): Situated near Entebbe on Lake Victoria’s shores, this is Uganda’s largest and busiest airport. It serves as the primary entry point for most international travelers from South Africa.
• Other Airports: Besides Entebbe, there are smaller airports in Uganda that may handle international flights depending on the airline and route. These include Gulu Airport (ULU), Mbarara Airport (MBQ), and Arua Airport (ARU).
• Kenya-Uganda Border: Numerous border crossings exist between Kenya and Uganda, with popular ones including the Malaba Border Post (eastern Uganda) and the Busia Border Post (eastern Uganda).
• Rwanda-Uganda Border: The Gatuna Border Post is the main land border between Rwanda and Uganda.
• South Sudan-Uganda Border: Travelers from South Sudan typically enter Uganda through the Nimule Border Post.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)-Uganda Border: The Bunagana Border Post is the primary entry point from the DRC.
• Purpose Restrictions: Adhere to the specific purpose (tourism, business) and avoid unauthorized activities.
• Work Prohibitions: Some visas may restrict work or business activities; understand these limitations.
• Proof of Purpose: Demonstrate a valid reason for your visit, such as confirmed bookings or a business invitation letter.
• Financial Standing: Submit evidence of sufficient funds for your stay; this is crucial for a successful application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i get a uganda visa on arrival.

No, you cannot get a visa on arrival as a South African citizen entering Uganda.

How much is a South African visa for Ugandans?

1. Uganda Tourist EVisa = $116.63 fee 2. Uganda Transit Visa = $116.63 fee 3. East Africa Tourist Visa = $164.82 fee

How long does it take for a Uganda visa to be approved?

The typical processing time for a Ugandan e-visa is around three business days.

How do I know if my visa is ready for Uganda?

Once you’ve applied for a Uganda visa, you may receive notifications or updates on the status of your application.

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Written by Rosalie Santos

Rosalie is a content writer who loves to learn and share knowledge. She has a background in education and teaching, which helps her write clear, accurate, and engaging content. She writes about travel, culture, and education topics. She also handles Turkey and India visa applications, which she learned from Lei Achumbre, the COO of Visas for Future and a visa expert. She fulfills visa orders and answers customer service questions once a quarter.

Managed by Glen Vidania

Glen Vidania is the Content Manager at Visas for Future, a company that offers online visa services for eco-friendly travelers. He is a certified Content Marketer and an experienced academic writer. He writes and promotes content that is informative, engaging, and relevant to the readers. He had work experience and gained skills in writing articles, data entry, SEO email marketing, and guest posting. He is also an expert in applying for visas for Turkey and India.

Published by Visas for Future

Visas for Future strives to help you virtually, so that your research is complete in one visit. Our articles are informative, complete and to-the-point. We write in an accessible way, so that non-native English speakers will understand. Our website is accessible for the visually impaired. We have full oversight of our articles and are unbiased in writing. Check our editorial guidelines.

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Cite this article

Santos, Rosalie. "Uganda visa requirements for South African citizens." Visas For Future , https://www.visasforfuture.com/uganda-visa-requirements-for-south-african-citizens/. Accessed on 8 March 2024.

Chicago Style

Santos, Rosalie. "Uganda visa requirements for South African citizens." Visas For Future. March 8, 2024. https://www.visasforfuture.com/uganda-visa-requirements-for-south-african-citizens/.

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Table of Contents

You need a visa for Uganda if you have a South African passport

Visa options for uganda (2), east african visitor visa.

This visa is for travelers visiting Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for business or tourism during one trip. Travelers can travel freely between these three countries, entering and exiting each country multiple times. Travelers visiting Kenya must also obtain a Kenyan Electronic travel authorization. Travelers must start their trip in Uganda. The visa becomes invalid if traveling outside of these countries. An eVisa is the fastest and easiest way of obtaining a visa as you can submit an application and supporting documents online. If approved, travelers receive their eVisa confirmation electronically. When travelers arrive at immigration they will be asked for their passport and eVisa to ensure they have proper documentation.

This is not offered by sherpa°.

Apply on the government site.

Uganda eVisa

Entries   Single

Stay for   45 days

Use within   90 days

Purpose   Tourism

Approved by Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Learn more: Uganda eVisa for South African passport holders

Everything you need to know for south african citizens, how long does it take for the uganda evisa to be approved.

Most applications are approved within 6 days. Governments do not guarantee processing times, so be sure to submit your application as early as possible.

You’ll receive your Uganda eVisa as soon as it’s been approved, and we’ll immediately contact you if there are any issues.

How long can I stay in Uganda with my eVisa?

You are able to stay in Uganda for up to 45 days. If you wish to stay longer, please refer to the information at the top of this page to see if there are any long-stay visa options. If there are none, please contact your nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate for more information on how to extend your stay.

Quick Summary

• The Uganda eVisa can be used for Tourism
• The Uganda eVisa allows travellers to stay for up to 45 days
• Once approved, the the Uganda eVisa will be sent to your email
• You must submit the application for the Uganda eVisa at least 10 days before travelling

What do I need to apply?

• Headshot or a selfie
• Yellow fever vaccination card
• Return flight/cruise booking confirmation

How sherpa° works

Find the visa you need.

Government visa requirements depend on your destination and passport. We’ll help you find what you need before you go.

We’ll help you get prepared before you go.

Submit your application

Our easy-to-use forms guide you through the process. Then we review your application before it’s submitted⁠, maximizing your chances of approval.

Our easy-to-use forms guide you through the process.

Check your inbox

Once you’re approved, you’ll get an email with your eVisa and all the instructions you need. Now you’re free to travel with confidence.

Once you’re approved, you’ll get an email with your eVisa.

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Uganda visa requirements for other passport holders.

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Home » New visa scheme in South Africa for tourists from China and India

New visa scheme in South Africa for tourists from China and India

Starting in 2025, South Africa is set to launch a new visa program aimed at making it easier for tourists from India and China to visit.

South Africa will introduce a new visa scheme at the start of next year to facilitate travel for tourists from India and also China. The Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) will simplify visa processing for Chinese and Indian tourists.

New visa scheme for tourists from India and China

In the first three months of this year, 16 000 visitors from India visited South Africa , according to Visa Guide .

Tourism South Africa aims to significantly boost this number, targeting 100 000 tourists from India by the end of this year. Tourists from India comprise 3,9% of South Africa’s international visitors.

Markedly, tourists from China account for only 1,8% of South Africa’s international visitors.

What more tourists could mean for the economy

A 10% annual increase in tourism could boost South Africa’s economic growth by 0,6%, according to Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber. It could also generate tens of thousands of new jobs in South Africa.

Tourism plays a key role in driving economic growth. It helps create jobs, encourages new businesses, brings in money, and has a positive impact on other industries. In 2021, tourism made up 3.2% of South Africa’s GDP, as reported by bizcommunity .

How will the TTOS work?

The TTOS will aim to improve efficiency for tourists from non-visa exempt countries like China and India. Under the TTOS, tour operators can register with the Department of Home Affairs and submit group visa applications.

A specialised team of adjudicators will manage applications through the TTOS, ensuring faster and more efficient processing. It will also eliminate the bureaucratic obstacles that have historically impacted South Africa’s tourism sector.

It is important to note that TTOS is only an interim measure to boost tourism while the Department of Home Affairs aim to move quickly to digitally transform Home Affairs. Ultimately, their vision is for a fully automated process that delivers secure tourist visa outcomes digitally and within seconds to tourists from around the world.

“It sends a powerful message that the Government of National Unity is serious about unlocking our country’s vast tourism and economic potential.” Minister Leon Schreiber

The regulations for the TTOS will be published shortly by the Department of Home Affairs, as well as information on how tour operators can apply ahead of the scheme’s rollout in January 2025. 

Do you think it is beneficial for South Africa to get more visitors from India and China?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article. You can also email  [email protected]  or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Follow  @TheSAnews on X  and  The South African on Facebook  for the latest news.

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Uganda Travel Advisory

Travel advisory december 28, 2023, uganda - level 3: reconsider travel.

Uganda Level 3 – Reconsider Travel C T O

Reissued with updates to terrorism information.

Reconsider travel to Uganda due to  crime, terrorism , and  anti-LGBTQI+ legislation . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country summary:  There remains a threat of  terrorist attacks  in Uganda and throughout the region. Numerous terrorist attacks have occurred in Uganda, to include religious venues, schools, and areas frequented by tourists, resulting in the deaths of Ugandans as well as foreign visitors.  U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. In October 2023, ISIS-Central Africa claimed responsibility for killing two international tourists and a Ugandan driver within Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Violent crime , such as armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, presents a serious threat to those visiting and residing in Uganda and can occur at any time, especially in larger cities, including Kampala, Jinja and Entebbe, in the Karamoja region, and along Uganda’s western and northern borders. Local police may lack appropriate resources to respond effectively to serious crime in most areas.

The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act raises the  risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death based on provisions in the law , and may be subject to mandatory reporting to the police if they are suspected of committing or intending to commit acts in violation of the law, and could face harassment or attacks by vigilantes. Those perceived to support the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons (including those of youth under the age of 18) could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentences.   Even an unsubstantiated accusation of supporting the LGBTQI+ community can create risks from police and vigilantes.  Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Uganda.

If you decide to travel to Uganda:

• Remain alert and avoid large public gatherings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Remain with a group of friends in public.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not open your door for people at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
• Do not leave food and drinks unattended in public, especially in local clubs.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and secure originals in your hotel safe.
• Provide your itinerary to a family member or friend.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Be mindful that any public identification with the LGBTQI+ community, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, and that even private consensual same-sex relations are illegal.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Uganda.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the  CDC page  for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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South Africa to soon implement a new visa scheme for Indians; all details here

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , SOUTH AFRICA / Created : Sep 10, 2024, 13:54 IST

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Reportedly, the TTOS has been designed to address issues that have been creating roadblocks for South Africa’s tourism sector and hampering its growth in becoming a top tourism destination. If one goes by the records, currently, I … Read more

Reportedly, the TTOS has been designed to address issues that have been creating roadblocks for South Africa’s tourism sector and hampering its growth in becoming a top tourism destination. If one goes by the records, currently, Indian tourists make up just 3.9% of international visitors to South Africa, which is deemed as an insignificant number. Read less

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Reportedly, the TTOS has been designed to address issues that have been creating roadblocks for South Africa’s tourism sector and hampering its growth in becoming a top tourism destination. If one goe...