Saturday, June 14th, 2025
India, China, Egypt, Colombia, Turkey, Thailand and Saudi Arabia are expected to significantly increase tourism in South Africa by accepting the new AI-powered electronic travel approval (ETA) system to be launched in September 2025. By providing a more seamless and mobile-friendly visa experience, the new ETA system will promote greater travel from these major countries, increase the overall efficiency of South Africa's immigration process and attract more international visitors. With promises of speed, security and convenience, the ETA system is poised to make South Africa an even more attractive destination for travelers in these countries.
South Africa launches digital ETA systems for tourists in 2025
South Africa plans to transform the tourism immigration process with the introduction of a fully digital digital travel certification (ETA) system for short-term tourists from countries that require visas. The AI-powered platform, scheduled for launch in September 2025, promises to enhance your travel experience, offering faster approvals, improved security and a seamless visa process that can be accessed via mobile devices.
A new era for tourism in South Africa
In a move to redefine travel to Rainbow Nation, South Africa will deploy cutting-edge ETA systems in September 2025. This innovative AI-powered system is designed to streamline the Visa application process, providing a fast, digitally-first experience for tourists in Visa Requear.
The new system is expected to significantly reduce waiting times at airports, minimize fraud and facilitate administrative liability related to international travel. Home Minister Leon Schreiber demonstrated the functionality of the ETA system to President Cyril Ramaphosa and provided a preview of the system's smartphone-friendly interface that travelers can use from the moment they begin planning their trip.
How will the new ETA system work?
The ETA system aims to provide a simpler, faster, and more efficient way for international visitors to secure travel approval for short stays in South Africa. Minister Schreiber emphasized that the AI-powered platform will allow tourists to apply for travel approval in seconds through their mobile phones. This means there are no time-consuming documents at the immigration counter, in-person appointments, or long lines.
South Africa is planning to launch a state-of-the-art electronic travel certification (ETA) system as part of its immigration process. This fully integrated system is scheduled to be in operation at major international airports by September 2025. According to Schreiber, the new ETA system is undergoing extensive testing to ensure preparation and efficiency to manage large amounts of applications and provide travelers with a seamless and quick entry process.
Which countries are affected?
The ETA applies to short-term visitors (less than 90 days) from countries that currently require a visa to enter South Africa. The official list of the country has not yet been confirmed, but the new ETA system is expected to almost replace existing e-VISA systems in the same country.
The countries that are likely to be included in the new system include:
Asia: India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iranafrica: Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Tunisia, Cameroon, MUAUSA: Colombia, Equadore, Perairstun Europe, Russia, Ukraine
These countries are currently eligible for South Africa's E-Visa, and ETAs are expected to be deployed for these travelers. The full list of eligible countries will be officially released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, near the start date of the system.
What about existing E-Visa systems?
To date, South Africa's existing e-Visa platform is still operational and continues to serve tourists in over 30 countries. However, there is no official announcement as to whether the ETA system will replace the E-VISA completely or integrate it with existing systems. The Home Office is advised to ensure travelers are kept informed of changes and stay up to date to avoid confusion.
Instant visa approval via mobile
The outstanding feature of the new ETA system is the fast and easy visa application process. Tourists can apply and receive travel approval almost instantly via their smartphones. Schreiber emphasized that AI-driven systems process visa applications in seconds, bypassing the need for physical documents or long processing times that are usually accompanied by conventional visa applications.
This digital-first approach makes it easier for visitors to get quick approval for their trip, allowing for a smoother and faster travel experience overall. The convenience of applying for a visa directly from a mobile device allows travelers to feel at ease knowing that visa status will be processed quickly and safely.
Expand your ETA system to other visa categories
Although the initial deployment of the ETA system will be limited to short-term tourist visas, the South African Home Ministry has ambitious plans to expand its platform to cover all visa types. After debuting in 2025, the ETA system will ultimately include work visas, learning permission and even residential applications. The goal is to create a completely digital immigration experience for all types of travelers.
Things tourists should expect in 2025
For travelers planning to visit South Africa from Visa Required countries, the upcoming ETA system promises to provide greater convenience, security and speed. It is essential to consider several important factors.
Migration from E-VISA: The main concern for travelers is how ETA systems interact with existing E-VISA platforms. It is still unclear whether the ETA will completely replace the E-VISA system or whether the two will coexist. Application Process: The new system promises a faster and easier application process, but travelers need to continue notifying you of updates regarding ETA Application Portal and specific steps. Start date for September 2025.
A new chapter for tourism in South Africa
With the ETA system, South Africa is taking a major leap towards digital and future immigration frameworks. The initiative is part of the government's broader efforts to strengthen the country's tourism infrastructure while improving border control efficiency.
For international travelers, the introduction of ETAs represents a major step forward in simplifying the visa application process. By reducing the burden on administrators and leveraging AI to enhance security, ETA systems are set up to provide a seamless and efficient immigration experience.
India, China, Egypt, Colombia, Turkey, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and others are set to boost tourism in South Africa with the introduction of AI-powered electronic travel certification (ETA) systems in 2025. This digital platform simplifies the visa process and provides faster approval and seamless experience.
As the release date approaches, tourists planning to visit South Africa will need to closely monitor the latest information from the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure that they are well prepared for the transition to the new system. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure or study, ETA opens up the path to a smoother, hassle-free journey to South Africa, making it an even more attractive destination for global travelers.
