South Africa’s move to introduce an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system by September 2025 has been welcomed as a step towards modernising travel processes.
However, tourism leaders warn that applying the ETA requirement to visitors from visa-exempt countries could do more harm than good.
Industry Calls for Clarity and Collaboration
David Frost, CEO of SATSA, emphasised that while the ETA could strengthen security and streamline arrivals, its design must be “consultative, transparent and traveller-centric”. “There is no rationale for applying an ETA to countries that are already visa-free for short-term stays,” he said, warning that unnecessary red tape could dampen demand at a time when the sector should be focused on recovery.
Also read: Millionaire Migration Surges as South Africa Wealth Shifts
Tour operators cite Kenya’s recent experience with its digital travel system as a cautionary tale. System inefficiencies caused widespread delays, highlighting the need for a phased, tested rollout.
Risk to Spontaneous Travel
Sabine Blehle, CEO of GoVacation Africa, noted that if the ETA is clear, user-friendly and speeds up arrivals, it could improve the travel experience. But she added that extra administrative steps may discourage last-minute bookings and confuse older or less tech-savvy tourists. “Training videos, multilingual guides and a robust support channel will be critical,” she said.
Cost is another concern: “Travellers already face high airfares to South Africa. Adding fees could deter visitors,” Blehle warned.
Also read: South Africa Sees Sharp Rise in FDI in Q1 2025
Industry Wants Transparency
Onne Vegter, MD of Wild Wings Safaris, stressed that extending the ETA to visa-exempt travellers would effectively “introduce a visa process for countries that don’t need one”, creating confusion and risking rejected travellers.
Stakeholders are urging the Department of Home Affairs to consult widely, share clear timelines, and keep the private sector informed. “Digital modernisation must enhance, not hinder, South Africa’s global tourism competitiveness,” Frost concluded.
