South Africa is gradually transitioning to an electronic travel authorization (ETA) system, which replaces traditional visa procedures for citizens of a number of countries. The new platform uses artificial intelligence and automated checkpoints to speed up the border crossing process. Learn more about the stages of ETA implementation, the conditions for obtaining a permit, and the checkpoints through which it will be valid in 2026

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South Africa is actively modernizing its immigration system by introducing an electronic travel authorization (ETA). According to Fragomen, the new system has already begun operating in pilot mode and will gradually expand its coverage. The ETA uses artificial intelligence and automation to simplify the entry procedure.

Who exactly is required to obtain an ETA, which border crossing points can be entered with an electronic authorization, and why you should choose an ETA instead of an eVisa — we will tell you more in this article.

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How ETA is being implemented in South Africa: launch stages

The launch of the electronic travel authorization for South Africa is taking place in stages, starting in October 2025. The first stage was limited in scope: the ETA requirement applied exclusively to diplomats from mainland China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico who were arriving for the G20 summit in Johannesburg. Entry points at this stage were limited to OR Tambo and Cape Town international airports. In November 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs added Lanseria International Airport to the list of available entry points.

The second phase began on February 12, 2026, and significantly expanded the range of people who can use the ETA. From now on, citizens of China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico with regular passports arriving through the three airports mentioned above (O. R. Tambo, Cape Town, and Lanseria) are eligible to apply for an ETA or eVisa online. At the same time, there is reason to believe that consular visas will no longer be issued to visitors from these countries. Citizens entering through other checkpoints must still apply for an electronic or consular visa.

We discussed the cost of living in South Africa in our previous article.

Problems with the eVisa platform and recommendations for applicants

As of February 13, 2026, there have been problems with the reliability of the eVisa platform. System updates and technical glitches are causing delays in the processing of applications, which creates risks for travelers with urgent trips. This situation directly affects citizens of mainland China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico, who are advised to give preference to ETA instead of online eVisa applications, especially in cases of urgent travel.

Citizens of other countries who are required to apply for an eVisa or consular visa should also be aware of possible platform failures. For urgent trips, such applicants should apply for a consular visa, bypassing the eVisa online system. It should be noted that the ETA portal operates in parallel with the eVisa system, but only citizens who are eligible according to the established criteria can apply through the ETA portal.

Expansion of ETA to new border crossing points: what the South African president announced

On February 13, 2026, the President of South Africa announced plans for a large-scale expansion of the ETA program in an address to the nation. Later in 2026, citizens who are eligible for an electronic permit will be able to enter through all international airports in the country. In addition, the ETA will be extended to the busiest land border crossings.

Among the land crossings that will be included in the program are Beitbridge (border with Zimbabwe), Lebombo (border with Mozambique), Kopfontein and Skilpadhek (border with Botswana), as well as the city of Maseru (border with Lesotho). After the successful completion of the pilot project (phases 1 and 2), the ETA system is planned to be extended to citizens of all countries arriving in South Africa for business or tourism purposes.

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ETA validity and conditions of stay in South Africa

The electronic travel authorization is multiple-entry, allowing for several entries into the country during its period of validity. Each visit can last up to 90 days, and if necessary, the stay can be extended once for another 90 days — the extension application is submitted online. This format is convenient for those planning long trips or business trips with multiple visits.

Important to know! Foreign citizens who already have a residence or work permit in South Africa are exempt from the requirement to apply for an ETA. The cost of the electronic permit has not been officially announced by the government — it is determined on the basis of mutual agreements on visa fees between South Africa and the applicant's country.

Advantages of ETA and consequences of not having a permit upon entry

Holders of an electronic travel permit receive a significant advantage when crossing the border. Accelerated entry is provided by automated immigration checkpoints that use a QR code linked to the ETA. This code is available on a smartphone or can be printed via an online platform. The technology significantly reduces the time spent passing through immigration control.

At the same time, travelers who require an ETA or eVisa but arrive in South Africa without a valid permit will not be able to obtain one on the spot. Such individuals will be denied entry into the country. That is why applying in advance is a prerequisite for smooth border crossing.

Why South Africa is introducing the ETA: the goal and global context

The introduction of an electronic travel authorization is a long-awaited step by the South African government. The main goal of the program is to attract more tourists and foreign investment, as well as to simplify the procedure for entering the country. The ETA provides significantly faster processing compared to the current eVisa procedure, making South Africa a more accessible destination for international travelers.

South Africa is joining a global trend in which more and more countries are introducing electronic entry permit systems. Similar systems are already in place in Kenya, the UK, and Israel. This approach allows countries to control migration flows more effectively while reducing barriers for bona fide travelers.

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Reminder! The South African Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) has launched a new online platform for business visas, which simplifies the application process. Who can get a South African business visa — find out at the link.

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