South Africa to Launch AI-Powered ETA System in 2025

South Africa is set to revolutionise its immigration processes with the September 2025 launch of a cutting-edge Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), the new scheme is designed for tourists visiting for stays of less than 90 days.

Interior Minister Leon Schreiber presented the plan to President Cyril Ramaphosa, highlighting how it would deliver a secure and fully digital visa application process. Speaking during the State of the Nation Address in February, President Ramaphosa had already flagged the digital overhaul of immigration services as a cornerstone of the government’s wider digital public services transformation.

https://twitter.com/Leon_Schreib/status/1933086558304776232

Near-instant travel clearance?

The new ETA system promises a frictionless and rapid user experience, enabling travellers to apply for and receive travel authorisation within seconds on a smartphone. Leon Schreiber went so far as to showcase the functionality by displaying his own digital ETA visa stored in his smartphone wallet. No physical paperwork, in-person appointments or prolonged waits at entry points will be required.

Applicants will need to supply biometric data during the application process, and upon arrival will scan their ETA code and submit fresh biometric scans for verification.

Gradual expansion to all visa types

Initially, the ETA will come online at the end of September 2025 at South Africa’s main international airports for short-term tourist visas under 90 days. The Department of Home Affairs, however, plans to gradually extend the system so that it eventually handles every type of visa application—work visas, study permits and permanent residency—as part of a broader shift towards an entirely digital, AI-driven immigration framework aimed at eradicating fraud and inefficiency.

How will the new ETA coexist with the existing e-Visa?

South Africa’s current eVisa portal—used by visitors from more than 30 countries—will remain open for now. The government expects the new ETA to largely replace the existing e-Visa for the same set of countries, though no official announcement has been made on whether the old platform will be phased out or merged, meaning further clarity is still needed to avoid complicating travel for visitors.

South Africa’s current eVisa system

The countries most likely to transition to the new ETA are those that currently require a visa to enter South Africa and are eligible for the e-Visa programme. The list is expected to include:

• Asia: India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran.

• Africa: Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Tunisia, Cameroon.

• South America: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru.

• Eastern Europe: Russia, Ukraine.

The Department of Home Affairs will publish a complete list of eligible countries ahead of the September 2025 rollout; no application fees have been announced.