South Africa's New ETA System to Streamline Entry for Visa-Required and Exempt Visitors
South Africa is set to introduce an electronic travel authorization (ETA) system in 2025, aiming to streamline entry for both visa-required and visa-exempt visitors. The initial phase will cater to G20 attendees from specific countries, with a full rollout planned for 2026.
The ETA system will debut at Johannesburg's OR Tambo and Cape Town international airports, with further expansion to other entry points in the pipeline. Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber has promised faster processing times, with ETA applications being processed within 24 hours.
The government is also considering how to efficiently capture biometric data from visa-exempt passengers for the ETA system. The ETA itself will be valid for up to 90 days, with an option for a one-time 90-day extension, totalling 180 days. While visa-exempt travelers, such as those from Europe, the US, and Canada, can apply for an ETA, it will not be mandatory for them.
The ETA system is expected to benefit both visa-required and visa-exempt travelers, offering faster processing times and enhanced security. The initial rollout in 2025 will cover G20 attendees from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico, with a full rollout planned for 2026. South African officials are committed to ensuring a smooth transition to this new system.
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