Just In: South Africa Unveils 2026 Visa-Free Entry List For Some African Countries
South Africa has officially released its updated 2026 visa-free entry list, identifying countries whose citizens can visit the country without obtaining a visa in advance for approved short-term stays.
The African countries on the visa-free list include:
The countries covered by the exemption are Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Eswatini, Tanzania, Tunisia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The permitted length of stay varies by country. Citizens of Botswana, Comoros, Mozambique, Tunisia and Zimbabwe, among others, can stay for up to 90 days, while nationals of several other countries are granted visa-free access for up to 30 days.
Tanzania is subject to a separate arrangement, allowing holders of ordinary passports to stay for up to 90 days, while diplomatic and service passport holders are permitted stays of up to 30 days.
South Africa also grants visa-free entry to holders of the African Union Laissez-Passer and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Laissez-Passer under its exemption policy.
The updated policy is expected to promote tourism, boost trade, encourage investment, and strengthen diplomatic ties across the African continent.
However, travelers should note that visa-free travel does not guarantee automatic entry. Visitors must still satisfy South Africa’s immigration requirements, including presenting a valid passport and complying with the approved purpose and duration of their stay.
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