South Africa has expanded its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, introducing new features to simplify travel planning for eligible visitors from India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The enhanced digital platform aims to make travel authorisation more accessible and convenient, encouraging international visitors to explore the country’s wildlife, landscapes, cities and cultural heritage.
The ETA allows eligible Indian passport holders to apply for travel authorisation entirely online, without visiting a visa processing centre or obtaining a traditional visa sticker. The latest enhancements include application facilities for minors, with biometric capture and enrolment on the Home Affairs National Identification System (HANIS) for children aged seven years and above. A multi-applicant feature has also been introduced, allowing families and groups to submit applications through a single portal.
The expansion is being implemented in phases, with additional country groups introduced during August and September 2026. The platform is now available across 53 countries, including all markets previously covered under South Africa’s eVisa programme, which has transitioned to the ETA system. The development forms part of the country’s broader efforts to modernise and digitise its immigration and travel authorisation processes.
The next phase of the expansion will focus on key growth markets ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027. South Africa aims to use the tournament as an opportunity to attract international visitors, including Indian cricket fans, who can combine the sporting event with safaris, cultural experiences and leisure travel across the country.
The transition to the ETA system will also involve decommissioning the existing eVisa platform on December 1, 2026. Authorities are monitoring the new system for stability and scalability, while communication and stakeholder onboarding initiatives are underway to familiarise travellers and industry partners with the updated process.
Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head MEISEA, South African Tourism, said the expansion would make travel planning simpler for eligible Indian visitors, including families and groups. She added that the organisation hopes more Indian travellers visiting for the ICC Cricket World Cup will explore South Africa’s wildlife, landscapes, cities and cultural offerings beyond the tournament. Travellers have been advised to check their eligibility and apply through the official South African Department of Home Affairs ETA portal before departure. The ETA serves as pre-authorisation to travel, while final admission remains subject to the decision of South African border authorities upon arrival.