President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system at OR Tambo International Airport on 12 August 2026. The digital system allows eligible travellers to apply online without visiting a South African mission or visa-processing centre, while using biometric verification, identity management and risk assessment to improve both the efficiency and security of immigration processes. The system was initially introduced in four strategic source markets and is intended to expand to additional countries and other immigration services.

South Africa began rolling out the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), a digital system that enables eligible travellers to apply online and receive fast approvals. The platform streamlines visa processing, supports biometric verification, and allows travellers to be processed at airports in under 60 seconds

The Minister of Home Affairs presented the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), a digital platform that automates visa applications, biometric verification, and real-time approvals. The system replaces paper-based visa processes and will be rolled out in phases, beginning with G20 delegates and tourists from selected countries.