25/08/2025
South Africa to Launch Digital ETA for Tourists in September 2025
Published by Road2Asia
South Africa is taking a big step toward modernising travel. Starting September 2025, the country will officially roll out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for certain visitors. This new system will make applying for a short-stay visa quicker, easier, and completely digital.
What Is the ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital visa designed for tourists who plan to stay in South Africa for 90 days or less. Instead of filling in forms and standing in queues, travelers will be able to apply online and receive approval almost instantly.
This is part of South Africa’s wider plan to move towards fully digital visas, as announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this year.
Who Will Need It?
The ETA will initially apply only to:
Travelers who currently require a visa to enter South Africa
Short-stay visits (90 days or less)
It will first launch at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport, with other entry points added later.
At this stage, visa-exempt travelers do not need an ETA—but this could change in future updates.
How Does It Work?
The ETA process is designed to be fast and secure:
Apply online through the new Home Affairs digital portal
Upload your documents and submit payment
Receive approval in seconds, delivered directly to your phone
Present your ETA QR code upon arrival
The system will also use biometric checks to enhance border security and prevent fraud.
Why It Matters for Travelers
The ETA will:
Save time by replacing paper-based applications
Improve convenience, with approval sent straight to your smartphone
Enhance security with AI-driven checks and digital records
Support tourism, making South Africa more attractive to international visitors
This is especially important as South Africa prepares to welcome world leaders and delegates during the September 2025 G20 Summit.
What’s Next for the ETA?
The government plans to expand the ETA step by step:
More visa types may be included in the system
Additional airports and land borders will be added
Authorities are considering whether visa-exempt travelers will also require an ETA in future
This gradual rollout ensures the system is tested and secure before it becomes fully nationwide.
Final Thoughts
South Africa’s move towards a digital ETA is a major step forward for travelers and for the country’s visa system. By introducing this technology, South Africa is aligning with global travel trends and making the visitor experience more efficient.
Road2Asia will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on how this system affects South African travelers heading abroad—and foreign visitors coming into South Africa.
