Maseru – Basotho nationals will soon be able to enter South Africa using only their national identity cards, following a new agreement between the two neighbouring countries.
South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, and Lesotho’s Minister of Local Government, Home Affairs, Chieftainship, and Police, Lebona Lephema, reached the deal after adopting a new migration model designed to improve movement between the two countries.
As part of the agreement, a One Stop Border Post will be introduced to allow faster and more seamless travel between Lesotho and South Africa. 
The two ministers also plan to roll out an Electronic Travel Authorization system, which will digitalise the entry process and enable ID-based access at the border.
Under the new system, Basotho visiting South Africa will be able to apply for an extension of up to 180 days once their initial 90-day visa-free stay expires. Applications can be made online at www.eta.dha.gov.za.
Government officials from both countries will also pilot a Trusted Traveller Programme to further ease cross-border movement.
