South Africa and Holland have been recognised by the Rugby League European Federation following a board meeting in Leeds.
South African Rugby League, already full members of the Rugby League International Federation, were accepted at the same level by the RLEF.
'At SARL, we feel that there is more logic associating with our northern hemisphere partners,' said Kobus Botha, president of the SARL board
'Membership to the RLEF allows us to start playing against progressively stronger nations as we develop the sport in South Africa.'
RLEF chairman Richard Lewis said: 'Africa represents a strategic territory for our sport, more so now than ever before following our recognition by the Commonwealth Games Federation, and I look forward to working with SARL at both national and continental levels.'