President Cyril Ramaphosa launched the system at OR Tambo International Airport, presenting the initiative as part of efforts to make travel, business and investment in South Africa more convenient.
Under the new system, eligible travellers can apply for travel authorisation online before leaving their home countries, with applications expected to be processed within hours.
The move replaces a more traditional, paperwork-heavy process with a digital pathway that allows visitors to complete their applications remotely.
Ramaphosa said the ease with which people can enter a country is becoming an important part of global competitiveness.
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Countries are increasingly competing not only through their economies and infrastructure, but also through how easily people can visit, invest, trade and study.
The ETA is part of South Africa’s broader push to modernise its immigration system and use digital technology to improve services for international travellers.
Officials expect the system to benefit tourism and business travel by reducing administrative delays and giving eligible visitors a faster way to secure the authorisation needed before travelling.
About the Author
Cecilia Attah is a tech analyst with a degree from Benue State University. She covers tech news and startups at TechRegard with a focus on how technology is transforming Africa and shaping the global landscape.
