SA border change: What’s the new Electronic Travel Authorisation?

President Cyril Ramaphosa has launched the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system at OR Tambo International Airport on 12 August 2026. What does this mean?

WHAT IS AN ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORISATION?

The ETA is a fully online travel authorisation system that allows eligible international travellers to apply for entry approval before setting foot into South Africa. This removes the need to visit a South African mission or visa processing centre. The intention is to eventually replace the existing e-Visa system entirely, using AI-powered processing, biometric verification and automated risk analysis to speed up approvals and strengten border security.

The system began as a pilot in October 2025 for G20 summit delegates from China, India, Indonesia and Mexico, using OR Tambo and Cape Town International Airport. By February 2026, it expanded into a second phase covering ordinary passport holders from those same four countries entering for business or tourism. Lanseria International Airport was later added as a supported port of entry.

As of August 2026, the platform’s nationality restrictions have loosened further, suggesting a broader rollout is already underway. The Department of Home Affairs advises travellers to confirm current eligibility directly through the official ETA portal.

WHAT TRAVELLERS NEED TO KNOW

An approved ETA permits multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days per visit. There is also the option of one additional 90-day extension applied for online. This cannot be used for work or study purposes, strictly business and tourism.

Since 17 August 2026, applicants must also pay a R500 processing fee. This was introduced through an amendment to the Immigration Act’s fee regulations. The ETA cannot be obtained on arrival: travellers who require one and land without it will be denied entry.

This system is likely to be more convenient. The system also reflects a broader government push to modernise the Department of Home Affairs and remove friction for tourism, trade and investment.

The long-term goal is believed to be for all visa-required travellers to eventually apply through a fully digital process, with tourist visa applications ultimately processed within 24 hours. New complementary visa categories are also in the pipeline, including schemes aimed at film production crews and international event participants.

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