South Africa to Launch the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) System in September 2025

Big news for travellers and visa applicants! South Africa is stepping into the digital age with the launch of its brand-new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Starting September 2025, tourists coming to South Africa for less than 90 days will be able to apply for their visas entirely online.

This is a major step forward in how the country processes visa applications and we’re here to break it all down for you.

What Is the ETA and Why It Matters?

The ETA (short for Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a fully digital visa system. That means no more paper forms or long consulate queues. Instead, travellers will apply online, submit their documents digitally, and receive a decision before they even board a plane.

Here’s why this matters:

• Faster turnaround: Applications will be processed in hours, not days or weeks.
  
  
• More secure: AI technology helps detect fraud and reduce risk.
  
  
• Easy travel: It will streamline entry at major airports like OR Tambo and Cape Town International.
  
  

The ETA is initially being rolled out for tourist visas under 90 days, but the plan is to eventually use this system for all visa types.

Key Dates and Rollout Information

Here’s what you need to know:

• Launch date: ETA goes live by end of September 2025
  
  
• Where it applies: Major international airports in South Africa
  
  
• Who it’s for (for now): Travellers applying for short-term tourist visas
  
  

The Department of Home Affairs has made it clear, this is just the beginning. Over time, the ETA will cover all visa types, making the entire visa system 100% digital.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you're planning to visit South Africa from late September onwards, and your stay is under 90 days, this new system will likely apply to you.

As more information becomes available, Intergate Immigration will be ready to help you navigate the ETA process, from preparing your application to ensuring all your documents are in order. 

Schreiber has confirmed that the list of eligible nationalities would be announced at the time of the official launch, and that the finer details will be revealed as they prepare to go live in September. We’ll continue to update you, also keeping you posted as more visa types are added to the system.

How We Can Help

Here’s how Intergate Immigration will support you:

• Application guidance: We’ll walk you through the online process, step by step
  
  
• Document checks: Ensure you’ve got everything you need before applying
  
  
• Ongoing updates: We’ll keep you informed as new visa categories move onto the ETA system
  
  
• One-on-one support: Book a consultation with our team for personalised advice

Ready to get started? Visit our Visa Services page or Contact Us to chat with one of our immigration experts.

Final Thoughts

This digital transformation is a huge leap forward for South Africa’s immigration system and a win for travellers and efficiency alike. Whether you're planning a holiday, scouting out business opportunities, or exploring a potential move, the ETA will make your visa experience faster, simpler and more secure. But for now, it’ll start with short-term tourist visas and eventually be rolled out for all visa categories.

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