Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read | 24 September 2025 | 11:50 CAT

📸 South Africa rolls out its new ETA system – promising faster visas, smoother airport entry, and a boost to tourism and security.

South Africa is set to revolutionise its visa process with the introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, a move that government says will ease access for tourists and business travellers while tightening border security.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, Adriaan Roos, spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs, described the ETA as “a fundamental step into the digital era.” He explained that the system will be trialled between September and October 2025, initially with G20 delegates from China, India, Indonesia and Mexico, ahead of the Leaders’ Summit.

“The ETA will allow applicants to submit biometrics, receive a QR code, and enter the country seamlessly at OR Tambo or Cape Town International,” Roos said. “This eliminates the slow and often corrupt manual processes previously handled by South African missions abroad.”

The Department of Home Affairs argues the change will not only speed up applications but also drive tourism and economic growth. Roos highlighted that China and India are particularly important markets. “Australia receives about 1.4 million visitors from these countries annually, while South Africa only manages around 33,500. The potential upside for us is massive,” he said. He noted that for every 12 tourists, one job is created in South Africa, emphasising the broader economic benefits.

Security remains a major concern. Roos stressed that handwritten visas, which in the past enabled corruption and even security breaches, will no longer be possible. He pointed to an incident involving Libyan nationals entering the country on fraudulent visas as an example of why reform is crucial. “The ETA requires biometrics, a photo, and pre-screening before boarding. This strengthens security and cuts out opportunities for corrupt interactions,” he explained.

Beyond the G20 trial, government plans to expand the ETA to the general public of those countries in 2026, before extending it further. Roos described the system as part of a broader digital innovation strategy, which includes partnerships with banks. Citizens will soon be able to apply for documents through their banking apps, easing pressure on Home Affairs offices.

“The goal is to free up resources to focus on critical issues, such as late birth registrations and assisting undocumented South Africans,” Roos said.

For travellers, the change promises a smoother experience at ports of entry. “No more endless queues or unfriendly encounters,” Roos assured. Instead, visitors will present their QR code and move swiftly through immigration.

As Roos concluded, “We’re not just cutting queues, we’re opening doors for growth, security, and opportunity.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Annisa Essack and Adriaan Roos.