South Africa expands Electronic Travel Authorisation to 53 countries, including Uganda and Colombia
South Africa is expanding its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to cover 53 countries, according to recent statements attributed to Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber. The ETA platform, launched on 12 August 2026, now allows more international travellers to apply for short-stay travel authorisation online instead of using the traditional visa process. The latest rollout includes Ugandan and Colombian passport holders, as confirmed by South African diplomatic missions in both countries.
The ETA system is designed for short-stay visitors whose nationalities require a visa to enter South Africa. Eligible travellers can now complete the process online, using biometric checks, passport verification and automated risk assessments. According to the Minister, most applications are processed within 24 hours. However, not all travellers from the 53 countries are required to use the ETA. Visa-exempt nationals—such as those from Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States—may use the ETA voluntarily for faster arrival processing or to extend their stay, but can still enter under existing visa-free arrangements.
To apply, travellers must use the official ETA portal, create an account, scan their passport, complete the application form and submit a live photograph for biometric verification. The processing fee is R500, effective since 17 August 2026. The ETA is linked to the applicant’s passport and may allow multiple entries during its validity, but does not guarantee admission or permit employment in South Africa. Travellers should always check the portal for the latest requirements and fees for their nationality before applying.
The ETA system is currently operational at four international airports: OR Tambo (Johannesburg), Cape Town, King Shaka (Durban) and Lanseria (Johannesburg). The government has announced plans to expand the system to land and sea borders and to include study and work visa categories during 2027. These future developments are not yet in effect and should not be confused with the current arrangements.
For the African travel trade, this expansion may simplify visa processing for clients from the newly included countries, especially for business, leisure and group travel. However, as no official list of eligible nationalities has been published on the public ETA portal, agencies should confirm eligibility and requirements directly with the South African authorities before booking. The impact on connectivity from African hubs and the uptake of the ETA system will become clearer as more travellers use the platform and as further ports of entry are addedfied, unattributed).
