South Africa Introduces Electronic Travel Authorization System
South Africa will launch its electronic travel authorization system in September 2025, initially targeting G20 attendees from four countries before expanding to all visa-required markets by 2026.
Phased Rollout Begins with G20 Summit
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber unveiled the ETA system with online applications opening mid-October for China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico nationals attending the November G20 summit. The system will initially operate at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo and Cape Town international airports before expanding to secondary airports and land borders.
“The first taste of South Africa is when someone applies for a visa. It cannot be queues, inefficiencies and rudeness. With the ETA, outcomes can be delivered within 24 hours,” Schreiber stated. The authorization will remain valid for 90 days, with a possible one-time extension to 180 days total.
Optional System for Visa-Exempt Travelers
Visa-exempt travelers from Europe, the US, and Canada will have optional access to the ETA system without mandatory requirements. The digital platform aims to facilitate more efficient border processing while maintaining current entry conditions for these nationals.
“Visa-exempt travelers can also apply for an ETA that will facilitate more efficient processing at the border, enhancing the overall travel experience,” according to the upcoming portal presentation. The government must determine efficient biometric data collection methods for visa-exempt passengers, while ensuring the system remains user-friendly and encourages voluntary adoption.
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