The nation of South Africa is set to launch an entirely digital Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) platform intended for short-term visitors from countries requiring visas. Scheduled to debut in September 2025, this AI-enhanced system is designed to facilitate quicker approvals, minimize fraudulent activities, and provide a smooth visa process through mobile devices.
Prepare for an enhanced and expedited expedition to the Rainbow Nation! South Africa is on the brink of transforming its immigration procedures with the upcoming Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) set to roll out in September 2025.
This state-of-the-art, AI-fueled ETA aims to alleviate long waits at borders, counter fraudulent practices, and greatly improve administrative tasks for short-term visitors.
Launch of South Africa’s ETA on the Horizon
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber recently presented the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system to President Ramaphosa, who had first heard of it during the President’s SONA in February 2024. He displayed a functional, mobile-friendly iteration for travel use.
Schreiber detailed that the AI-integrated ETA will make visa applications easier, lessen airport wait times, and avert fraudulent activities. He assured that the system is fully functional and will be operational at major international airports by September 2025.
“This is an authentic ETA visa, held in my actual smartphone wallet. It was generated online in mere seconds,” stated Minister Schreiber on June 12, 2025.
This is not a mockup. This is a real ETA visa, stored in my real smartphone wallet. It was issued online by our new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, based on latest AI tech that eliminates fraud and queues. Going live 09/25.
Home Affairs is building the future 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/TCC2HVKTE6
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) June 12, 2025
Who Will Necessitate the New South African ETA?
Individuals from nations requiring visas will be mandated to have the ETA for brief visits to South Africa (under 90 days). While the formal list is awaiting confirmation, it’s anticipated that the ETA will succeed the current e-Visa system for these nations:
Countries Expected to Require South Africa ETA
- Asia (India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Iran)
- Africa (Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Tunisia, Cameroon)
- South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru)
- Eastern Europe (Russia, Ukraine)
✅ Note: These are the same nations that presently qualify for South Africa’s e-Visa, and are likely to be transitioned to the ETA framework. The Department of Home Affairs will soon release a comprehensive official list.
What Will Happen to the Current e-Visa Structure?
South Africa’s existing e-Visa portal (ehome.dha.gov.za) is still in operation and is utilized by tourists from more than 30 countries. Nevertheless, the government has not yet made clear if the ETA system will replace or merge with the present platform.
Travellers are encouraged to stay updated with information from the Department of Home Affairs to prevent any misunderstandings.
Apply for a Visa Instantly
One of the primary benefits of the new ETA system is the capability to apply for and obtain a visa right away using a mobile device. Schreiber mentioned that the system quickly processes applications for tourist visas, eliminating the necessity for documents, face-to-face meetings, or lengthy waits at border entry points.
ETA for All Visa Categories
The government intends to broaden the ETA system to include all types of visas, such as work, study, and residency permits, following its initial rollout for tourist visas. The Department of Home Affairs envisions a fully digital immigration process in the years ahead.
“Eventually, we plan to extend the ETA so that every visa submission is handled exclusively through this AI-driven system to completely eradicate fraud and inefficiency – indefinitely,” stated Schreiber.
What Travellers Should Be Aware Of
South Africa's ETA system marks a significant advancement for tech-savvy travellers, providing enhanced speed, security, and ease of use. As the country gears up for a September 2025 launch, visitors from visa-imposing countries should look for updates, especially concerning:
- How the ETA will function alongside the current e-Visa system
- Whether the application process will be modified
- The final roster of qualifying countries
Fonte: Travelo Biz
