Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
SOUTH Africa is set to go high-tech with its visa system as it prepares to launch a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) platform later this month.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber will officially unveil the digital system on Thursday, in a move aimed at cutting red tape, fighting fraud, and making travel smoother for visitors.
The AI-powered platform will allow eligible travelers to apply online and get a digital code before their journey. Upon arrival, their documents will be verified using biometrics, reducing long queues and paperwork.
“The ETA is designed to automate and digitalise South Africa’s visa processes over time,” the Department of Home Affairs said in a statement. “This will make travel easier while boosting security at our borders.”
Visa applications are handled by South African embassies and consulates or through VFS Global service centers. The process involves filling out paper forms, submitting supporting documents, paying a non-refundable fee, and waiting for approval — often a slow and frustrating experience for many travelers.
The new system is expected to streamline this process, with the full list of eligible nationalities to be announced during Thursday’s launch.
Travel industry players and cross-border traders are eagerly awaiting the announcement, which could have a major impact on tourism and business travel between South Africa and its neighbors.
