South Africa has launched a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for inbound visitors. This is a fully digital system for eligible travellers to get cleared for a visit to South Africa before they fly, with no paperwork or in-person appointments necessary and decisions typically instant.

Piloted from October 2025 with G20 delegates from China, India, Indonesia and Mexico, the ETA was officially launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa at OR Tambo International Airport on 12 August 2026, alongside Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber. By this date, over 216,000 applications had already been processed.

The ETA offering is being rolled out gradually and in time will be compulsory for travellers to South Africa who require visas, optional for visa-exempt visitors wanting faster processing, and initially available at OR Tambo, Cape Town, King Shaka and Lanseria international airports.

Here is the official guideline from the Department of Home Affairs on what the ETA is, who can apply, and how the process works, reproduced in part from their website below. Visitors can register and login at https://eta.dha.gov.za/.

South African ETA

Welcome to the Government of South Africa’s official website to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Register your account or log in to start an application.

What is an ETA?

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital authorisation that allows prospective travellers from eligible visa required countries to travel to South Africa for tourism or visitor purposes, without the need for a traditional visitor’s visa. Visa-exempt travellers can also apply for an ETA that will facilitate more efficient processing at the border, enhancing the overall travel experience.

The ETA is linked to your passport and allows eligible holders to travel multiple times within the duration of the validity of the ETA. ETAs are not designed to allow repeated extended stays in South Africa for other purposes. Work in South Africa is also not permitted on an ETA.

Who can apply?

Applicants who hold valid ordinary passports may apply for an e-Visa online provided they will land at OR Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport or Lanseria International Airport

How to apply

1. Passport: Take a photo of the passport you will use to travel to South Africa
2. Application form: Answer some questions about yourself and your trip
3. Biometrics: Take a live picture of yourself
4. Payment: Pay the relevant application fee

Submit: Submit your application and wait for an instant outcome

Apply now for your ETA

You will need to create an account before you can start an application. If you have an account, you can login and start the application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers about frequently asked questions about the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) here.

Applicants are encouraged to:

• Ensure all information provided is accurate
• Confirm passport validity before applying
• Submit applications within required timelines

Failure to comply may result in delays, refusals, or withdrawal of approvals.