Lesotho, SA propose IDs for border crossing

Lesotho and South Africa are negotiating to allow citizens to cross the border using National Identity (ID) cards instead of passports.
There would also be an introduction of new electronic gates and an extended 180-day stay system for travellers between the two countries.
This was revealed by the Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Police and Home Affairs Minister, Lebona Lephema, during a press conference yesterday.
The proposals emerged from recent bilateral talks focused on easing movement while tightening cooperation at border posts.
Lephema said the ID-for-travel initiative aims to reduce barriers for thousands who cross into South Africa daily for work, trade, school, and healthcare.
He noted that the e-gates will let travelers scan IDs for quicker processing and reduced congestion.
Vehicles will be cleared through tollgate systems under a One-Stop Border Post model, where officials from both countries operate jointly.
The planned Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system will cover entry into South Africa and support study visas and stays beyond the current 90-day limit, up to 180 days.
Lephema stressed that the ETA is not a work permit and urged Basotho to respect South African laws.
He also encouraged Basotho who have overstayed in the neighbouring country to report to the Director of Immigration to register their cases for possible consideration, signaling a potential amnesty window.