In January 2025, South Africa plans to completely transform its approach to tourism by introducing the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS). The Department of Home Affairs announced this initiative which aims to make the visa process easier for Indian and Chinese tourists traveling in organized groups.
The TTOS is part of a more global approach to boosting the tourism sector in South Africa, with a particular focus on two of the world's largest tourist-sending markets.
How TTOS works
Criteria for selecting tourism companies
TTOS is based on a stricttour operator accreditation. To qualify as a trusted operator, companies must meet stringent criteria, such as :
- Solid expertise in group travel planning in South Africa.
- Proof of financial strength
- An exemplary record of compliance with immigration laws
- Methods for checking traveler histories.
Simplified visa application process.
Once they have obtained membership, operators will be able to submit grouped visa applications for their customers. The process will be greatly simplified:
- Fewer documents needed
- Priority in processing requests
- Online submission option
Visa deadlines and requirements
Visas granted at the TTOS will be valid for a period of 30 days and will be single use. It is imperative that travelers enter and leave the country in the company of their group.
Expected impact on tourism in South Africa
Increased number of visitors
According to the South African government, TTOS is forecasting a sharp rise in arrivals from China and India. Projections for the first three years following the introduction of the program are shown in the table below:
| Year | Chinese arrivals | Indian arrivals | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 100 000 | 200 000 | 300 000 |
| 2026 | 250 000 | 350 000 | 600 000 |
| 2027 | 500 000 | 500 000 | 1 000 000 |
According to the Department of Tourism, around 1,500 USD are spent by each Indian or Chinese tourist during their stay in South Africa. Based on estimated arrivals, the direct economic impact could reach 1.5 billion dollars by 2027.
I am particularly pleased that we are able to make this announcement during the President's state visit to China, as it sends a strong message that the government of national unity is serious about unlocking our country's vast tourism and economic potential.
South Africa's Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber
Intergovernmental cooperation and industry support
The TTOS is the result of close collaboration between several South African government departments. The Department of Home Affairs collaborates with the Department of Tourism, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, and the Department of Trade and Industry.
This initiative was welcomed by the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (FEDHASA)who described it as an "upheaval" in the country's tourism sector. According to the national president of FEDHASA, Rosemary AndersonTTOS is a crucial step in overcoming the obstacles that have been in our way. By making the visa process easier, South Africa is now much more accessible and attractive to these major growth markets, which we know have a preference for group travel.
Additional actions to increase tourist appeal
Language and culture training
To support the TTOS, the South African government decided to set up a program of language and cultural training for tourism industry experts. The aim of this program is to improve the reception of Chinese and Indian tourists by raising awareness among hotel staff, tour guides and tourist site employees of the cultural and linguistic particularities of these markets.
Adjusting the tourism offer
Industry players are also collaborating with the Tourism Department to tailor the tourism offering to the preferences of Chinese and Indian visitors. This includes creation of dedicated circuitsthe introduction of personalized menus in restaurants and the introduction ofshopping experiences specially designed.
If the program proves successful for Indian and Chinese tourists, the South African government is already planning to extend TTOS to other major issuing markets. Russia, Brazil (BRICS+ countries) and some Middle Eastern countries may also be involved.
As part of the TTOS, the Department of Tourism is also planning to create " tourist circuits" with neighbouring countriesallowing visitors to combine several Southern African destinations in a single trip.
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