Who Qualifies for South Africa’s New ETA and When It Start

South Africa will soon roll out its electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system. While designed primarily for travelers who are required to obtain a visa, it may eventually also be available to foreign nationals who are visa-exempt, though without being mandatory.

The first stage of the ETA rollout will take place between September and October 2025. Initially, only G20 attendees from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico will be able to use the ETA. Online applications will open in mid-October, just ahead of the leaders’ summit scheduled for November.

If the platform demonstrates stability, it will be expanded in 2026 to the general public in the four participating countries. According to a statement released today by the South African government, “The second phase will see the ETA extended next year to the general public of these countries.” This means that tourists from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico will be able to apply and pay for their Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before traveling, eliminating the need for traditional visa procedures.