South Africa recently implemented several measures to simplify visa procedures for Indian travelers, with the aim of boosting tourism and strengthening bilateral relations. In a recent national speech at Cape Town City Hall, Ramaphosa revealed that South Africa is anticipating an increase in tourism and business from India and China following the digitalization of the visa process. “As part of the reform agenda, we will continue to strengthen our visa system to facilitate the investment of skilled people in our country and growing tourism in South Africa,” Ramaphosa said.
Important changes include:
Electronic Travel Approval System: South Africa has announced an electronic travel approval system to enable a safe and complete digital visa application process. According to Ramaphosa, the system can use artificial intelligence and automation to reduce corruption and speed up the processing time of tourist visas.
Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS): The scheme, launched in January 2025, is now simplifying the entry process for tourists in India and China. The scheme aims to enhance tourism by making visas faster and easier. TTOS is an initiative by South Africa's Ministry of Home Affairs, which will promote travel for tourists from non-Visa-exempt countries such as India and China. “The scheme allows approved tour operators to register with the department, submit group visa applications to travelers, streamline the process and reduce red tape,” South Africa's Home Ministry said in a press release. I did.
“Indian tourists account for 3.9% of national visitors to South Africa and only 1.8% of China's. Research shows that even if tourism increases by just 10% per year, the annual economic growth rate increases by 0.6%, according to the survey. “It has been shown to create thousands of new jobs for South Africans,” the department said.
“We have cleared over 90% of our backlog of over 300,000 visa applications,” Ramaphosa said. The president added that these changes “send a strong message that South Africa is open for business and tourism.”
Delays in visa processing have been a long pending issue for Indian companies, with some considering redirect investments in other African countries. “There were challenges with both visas and direct flights. Mahesh Kumar, Indian Consul General in Johannesburg, told Reuters that it was easier for the Indian and South African governments to solve these problems and help people to work conveniently. We have seen them passionately working to create opportunities.
“This will be very encouraging and will effectively help guide the two societies closer together and promote more collaboration in business and tourism,” Kumar added.
