On 18 September 2025, South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber, announced the launch of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system at the Tourism Business Council of South Africa’s Leadership Conference.1 The ETA is part of the department’s digital transition plan, intended to replace paper-based visa procedures with an online system.
WHY THIS MATTERS
The introduction of the ETA system has implications for stakeholders in tourism, immigration, and business. It is intended to streamline visa application procedures, enabling applicants to apply online, reduce processing times, and modify how travellers interact with entry requirements.
The ETA involves the automation of visa application and issuance. The move to replace paper-based visa procedures with digital/electronic ones may necessitate changes in companies’ and immigration advisers’ policies and procedures.
The advantages of this new system will become more widespread as more travellers from additional countries beyond just the initial four (People’s Republic of China (“China”), India, Indonesia, and Mexico) are permitted to avail of it.
Key Highlights
ETA Launch and Digital Transformation
The ETA system replaces paper-based visa processes with an online platform that uses machine learning and biometric technologies. It is intended to align with the Electronic Movement Control System (EMCS 2.0) to implement facial recognition at major airports for automated arrivals and identity verification. (For prior coverage, see GMS Flash Alert 2025-134, 22 July 2025.)
How Long Is It Valid?
The ETA will be valid for up to 90 days with a possibility of requesting a one-time 90-day extension.
Phased Rollout
- Phase 1: Limited to G20 delegates from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico.
- Phase 2: Opens ETA applications to all tourists from these four countries.
- Full rollout: Planned for all visa-required nationalities and expanded to other visa categories.
KPMG INSIGHTS
Timing of Phases of Rollout and Further Details Awaited
The second phase will be initiated after the November G20 leaders meeting. And the full rollout will happen at a date to be determined, contingent on assessments of phases 1 and 2 of the rollout.
We await further details from the government on the precise procedures to follow, cost, and the online portal to be used.
Steps to Consider
In the light of upcoming changes, individuals and organisations affected by the new system could consider taking the following steps:
- Organisations may wish to review and update visa application and travel policies, client advisories, and internal protocols to reflect the new digital visa application process.
- Travel industry stakeholders might consider preparing for increased demand and training staff.
If individuals travelling to South Africa and/or their global mobility managers responsible for their travel and travel document needs have questions or concerns about how the new systems will work, timing, and appropriate next steps, they should consult with their qualified immigration professional or a member of the immigration team with KPMG in South Africa (see the Contacts section).
FOOTNOTE:
1 South African Government, "Minister Leon Schreiber presents new Electronic Travel Authorisation to tourism industry" (18 Sep 2025): https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/minister-leon-schreiber-presents-new-electronic-travel-authorisation-tourism .
Contacts
Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in South Africa.
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