South Africa to Roll Out New e-Visa System from Mid-October 2025
Department of Home Affairs introduces ETA for smoother international arrivals ahead of G20 summit
- South Africa launches ETA (electronic travel authorization) in mid-October
- System aimed at smoothing entry for international visitors
- Rollout timed ahead of South Africa’s hosting of G20 events
Under the new regulation, travellers from visa-exempt countries will obtain an ETA before arrival, replacing the existing in-port visa waiver system. Applicants will submit their details online, with most authorizations delivered electronically within hours.
For travellers currently subject to visa requirements, the ETA process will also streamline biometric data capture and reduce queue times at immigration counters.
Government officials say the ETA rollout is timed strategically ahead of the G20 summit hosted in South Africa, making entry more seamless for diplomats, global delegates, and observers.
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However, critics caution about implementation hiccups, digital divide concerns, and ensuring that the system is foolproof to avoid delays or rejections at border posts.
Opinion:If implemented well, the ETA system could mark a turning point in South Africa’s tourism recovery. But the success will lie in ensuring consistency across all ports of entry and protecting against fraud.
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