South Africa’s AI-Driven Digital Visa (ETA) System Launches in September 2025
South Africa is set to transform its immigration process by launching a fully digital, AI-powered Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system in September 2025. The new platform will significantly streamline visa applications for short-term tourists from visa-required countries, enhancing speed, security, and convenience.
What Is the South African ETA System?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a modern, mobile-friendly visa solution designed to replace or complement the current South Africa e-Visa platform. Powered by artificial intelligence, the ETA will offer instant visa approvals, fraud prevention, and reduced airport delays—all accessible via smartphones.
Key Features of the AI-Driven ETA System
- Instant Visa Approvals: Tourist visa applications can be approved in seconds via mobile devices.
- Fully Paperless: No physical documents or in-person appointments required.
- AI Fraud Detection: Enhanced security and identity verification through AI algorithms.
- Airport Efficiency: Shorter border queues and reduced processing time at entry points.
- Seamless Integration: Future expansion is planned to include work, study, and residency permits.
When Will the ETA System Be Available?
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber confirmed that the ETA system is fully operational and will launch at key international airports in South Africa by September 2025.
“This is a real ETA visa, stored in my real smartphone wallet. It was issued online within seconds,” – Minister Schreiber, June 12, 2025.
Who Will Need the ETA for South Africa?
The ETA is required for short stays under 90 days by travellers from visa-required countries. While the final list is pending confirmation, countries expected to qualify include
Likely Eligible Countries
- Asia: India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Iran
- Africa: Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Tunisia, Cameroon
- South America: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
- Eastern Europe: Russia, Ukraine
These countries currently qualify for the South African e-Visa and are expected to transition to the ETA system after its official rollout.
ETA vs. e-Visa: What’s the Difference?
South Africa’s current e-Visa platform remains operational for over 30 countries. However, it is unclear whether the ETA will replace or be integrated with the existing e-Visa system. Travellers should monitor official updates from the Department of Home Affairs for changes to the application portal and eligible countries.
Future Plans: ETA Expansion Beyond Tourist Visas
The Department of Home Affairs plans to expand the ETA system to cover all visa categories, including
- Work permits
- Study visas
- Residency applications
“Over time, we will expand the ETA so that every visa application is processed only through this AI-based system to eliminate fraud and inefficiency forever.” – Minister Leon Schreiber
What Travellers Should Watch Out For
As the launch date approaches, travellers should stay informed about the following:
- Whether the ETA will replace the current e-Visa system
- New application procedures or portal changes
- The final list of ETA-eligible countries
South Africa’s upcoming AI-powered ETA system marks a major step forward in digitising immigration services. For travellers from visa-required nations, this means faster approvals, mobile convenience, and enhanced border security starting September 2025. Be sure to follow the Department of Home Affairs for the latest updates and application details.
