Rwanda and South Africa have agreed to restore visa issuance for holders of ordinary Rwandan passports within twelve months, marking a significant step toward normalizing relations after years of diplomatic strain between the two countries.
The agreement was reached during a working visit to Pretoria by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, where he met South Africa’s International Relations Minister, Ronald O. Lamola.
According to a statement issued by the High Commission of Rwanda in South Africa, the visit marked an important step in the continued normalization and strengthening of relations between both countries.
Before now, visa access for ordinary Rwandan passport holders to South Africa was more restricted, with tighter application requirements and less predictable approval processes, limiting ease of travel for tourism, business, and study purposes.
The statement said the ministers reviewed progress made through ongoing diplomatic engagements and reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening cooperation for mutual benefit.
