Many countries will soon require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), but this new requirement will not affect South African passport holders visiting the UK.
Lynette Machili, Customer Experience Lead at Flight Center South Africa, helps navigate these changes that have sparked a huge debate in the travel world.
Who does it affect?
“It is important to understand that South African passport holders are not affected by the new ETA system,” explains Machili. “The ETA is specifically designed for nationals of visa-exempt countries. South Africans must follow the existing visa application process for travel to the UK.”
However, understanding the new system is still important as it impacts the broader travel ecosystem, including:
• Business professionals working with international partners.
・Those who coordinate trips for overseas travelers
• South African residents holding passports from visa-exempt countries;
• Dual nationals who can use ETA on the other passport
• Travel agents and business travel coordinators who manage the needs of diverse travellers.
Understand the ETA rollout
The UK Government is gradually implementing this important change to the border control system.
• November 27, 2024: First deployment
• January 8, 2025: Non-European countries
• April 2, 2025: European countries
The new system brings the UK into line with similar procedures used in the US and EU and affects travelers from visa-free countries. ETA aims to strengthen border security while streamlining the entry process for eligible travelers and creating a more efficient travel environment for all visitors to the UK.
What if I need an ETA? (i.e. I currently don't need a visa to enter the UK)
ETA is compulsory for all overseas visitors to the UK without a visa, except for Irish nationals.
“All visa-exempt foreign nationals visiting the UK will need to obtain an ETA,” Macili emphasizes. “It doesn't matter where you start or where you come from. What matters is your nationality.”
Important details (such as how much it costs)
£10 per application Valid for 2 years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first) An ETA is required for all travelers, including infants and children
What can I do with ETA?
Stay in the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting friends and family, business or short-term study stays in the UK for up to 3 months with creative worker visa benefits Travel through the UK even if you don't pass through a border checkpoint Create a visa and visit within the validity period
How to apply
Use the UK ETA app or visit www.gov.uk. You can also apply on behalf of someone else. Standard processing time is 3 business days. The ETA is electronically linked to your passport. Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email.
Important notes:
Chat with a travel expert about the latest requirements (including pending applications) during your initial rollout. Once fully implemented, approval will be required prior to travel. If your ETA is denied, you will need to apply. Obtain a suitable visa instead. If you have applied for and received a new passport, you will need to obtain a new ETA. Granting an ETA does not mean you will automatically be admitted to the UK, but will be able to travel to the UK.
We may refuse your request in the following cases.
Currently have a deportation or deportation order to the UK Have a serious criminal history Have been in the UK illegally in the past Have outstanding debts to the UK
What if I still need a visa? (i.e. the majority of South African passport holders)
For South African passport holders planning a trip to the UK, Mr Machili recommends:
Maintain a standard visa application schedule at least 6-8 weeks before travel Ensure all documents meet current UK visa requirements Consult a travel expert for the latest updates and requirements Recognize that visa requirements and processing times may vary depending on the purpose of your visit
UK travel checklist
□ Check the expiry date of your passport (minimum 6 months)
□ Start the visa application process (at least 12 weeks before your trip, but at least 6-8 weeks in advance as delays can occur, especially during peak holiday seasons)
□Collect the necessary documents
□ Consult a travel expert for the latest requirements
□ Ensure visa requirements match your travel purpose
□ Book travel insurance
□ Keep copies of all travel documents
the future of travel
As global systems increasingly adopt digital credentials, South African travelers can expect potential benefits such as shorter queues and smoother processing at UK borders, while maintaining traditional visa requirements. Now it looks like this.
“The modernization of border control systems around the world signals a trend toward more efficient and secure travel processes, which will ultimately benefit all international travelers,” Machili noted. Masu.
Whether planning a business trip or holiday to the UK, South African passport holders will be able to proceed with the normal visa application process, knowing that the new ETA system is separate from existing requirements. can. As always, consulting a travel expert is the best way to ensure you have all the documents in place for a smooth trip to the UK.
At a glance
UK travel tips for 2025
• Who needs an ETA: Only visa exempt nationals.
• Who needs a visa: South African passport holders.
• Timeline: Visa processing takes at least 6-8 weeks
• Publication date:
November 27, 2024: First ETA introduced January 8, 2025: Non-European countries April 2, 2025: European countries
Click here for more industry news.
