South Africa's New ETA System: Digital Visa Launching Soon
South Africa is set to launch an electronic travel authorization (ETA) system, a digital visa aimed at modernizing entry into the country. The Ministry of the Interior has revealed the first images of the upcoming ETA portal, which is expected to simplify travel for visitors. The system is scheduled to be activated by the end of September and officially launched next month.
The ETA will initially be available for visa-exempt travelers who can request it to enter South Africa. It will be linked to the passport and remain valid for multiple entries, but cannot be used to indefinitely extend a stay or engage in professional activity. The first phase will focus on delegates attending G20 meetings from visa-required G20 member countries arriving at OR Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport.
The second phase will open applications to all tourists from the same four countries after the conclusion of the G20 leaders' summit at the end of November. In the future, the ETA will be expanded to other visa categories, with automated entry and exit based on facial recognition at all entry points. The official platform for applying for a South African e-visa is developed and published by the South African Department of Home Affairs.
The ETA system is expected to streamline the entry process for visitors to South Africa, starting with G20 delegates and then opening to all tourists from the four initial countries. The system is set to be fully operational by mid-October, in time for the G20 summit.
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