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South Africa Expands ETA Implementation in 2026: New Entry Requirements

February 15, 2026 8:27 am

South Africa Expands ETA Implementation in 2026: New Entry Requirements

In 2026, South Africa will introduce a phased Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Starting in October 2025, travelers from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico must apply online before arriving in the country. Failure to do so could result in denied entry.

Overview of South Africa’s ETA

The ETA is an online travel authorization required before boarding a flight to South Africa. Unlike a visa issued at the airport, the ETA must be approved in advance. This system uses automation to streamline the immigration process upon arrival. Once approved, travelers receive a QR code to present at the airport, either digitally or printed. The primary objective of the ETA is to ensure quicker entry and simplify paperwork at the border.

Timing of ETA Implementation

The rollout commenced in October 2025. The first phase targeted diplomats from:

Mainland China
India
Indonesia
Mexico

These diplomats were attending the G20 Summit in Johannesburg and could only enter through:

OR Tambo International Airport
Cape Town International Airport
Soon after, Lanseria International Airport was included in the system.

Phase Two Expansion

In late November 2025, the ETA requirement expanded to all passport holders from the same four countries. Starting February 12, 2026, all travelers from these nations must apply for an ETA for tourism or business. Initially, the requirement applies only at selected airports.

Who Doesn’t Need an ETA?

Certain travelers are exempt from requiring an ETA. You do not need one if you:

Hold a South African permanent residency
Have valid South African residence rights
Possess a South African work permit
Anyone else from the specified countries must submit an application.

Duration and Cost of the ETA

An approved ETA enables:

Multiple entries
Stays of up to 90 days per visit
One additional 90-day extension, which can be requested online

This means you may stay up to 180 days if your extension is granted. The government has not announced a specific fee; instead, costs depend on reciprocal agreements with your country. Always check the official site for the latest fee information.

Key Differences: ETA vs. eVisa

South Africa already has an eVisa system. The ETA portal will operate alongside it. Only eligible travelers can use the ETA portal, while others will use the traditional eVisa system. The main distinction lies in processing speed; the ETA offers faster, more automated handling at the airport.

Purpose Behind Introducing the ETA

South Africa’s decision fits into a broader global trend. Many countries now implement electronic travel authorization systems to monitor entries before passengers board flights. Countries like Kenya, the UK, and Israel have adopted similar measures. The goals of the ETA include:

Enhancing border control
Quickening airport processing
Attracting tourists and investors
Reducing long immigration waits

This system allows authorities to screen travelers before they even arrive.

Consequences of Arriving Without an ETA

If you arrive in South Africa without an ETA and one is required, you will be denied entry. There are no options to apply at the airport. Travelers from Mainland China, India, Indonesia, or Mexico must secure an ETA before boarding.

Conclusion

If you plan to visit South Africa in 2026 and hold a passport from one of the affected countries, remember to include the ETA in your travel preparations. Apply early, verify airport eligibility, and keep your QR code handy. While the system aims to facilitate smoother entry, compliance with the rules is essential for a hassle-free experience. For regular travelers, this added step reflects the increasing digitalization in global border controls.