South Africa has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for eligible Indian passport holders, allowing them to apply for travel authorisation entirely online. This new system aims to process applications within 24 to 48 hours, significantly reducing the time and paperwork traditionally required for short leisure and work visits of up to 90 days.

The ETA, digitally linked to a traveller's passport, permits multiple entries during its validity period and eliminates the need for a traditional visa sticker. Travellers can apply by creating an account on the South African Department of Home Affairs ETA portal, uploading necessary documents, and verifying their identity using smartphone-based biometrics. The application status can be tracked online in real time.

Currently, the ETA is available for arrivals at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport, and Lanseria International Airport, with plans to expand to more entry points. This initiative is part of South Africa's efforts to enhance its immigration process, using secure biometric verification and automated processing to improve border security and visitor experience.

Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head MEISEA at South African Tourism, highlighted the convenience of the ETA, stating, "South Africa's new Electronic Travel Authorisation is an important step towards making travel planning simpler and faster for eligible visitors." The launch coincides with a digital campaign by South African Tourism to promote the ETA, as outbound travel from India continues to rise. Travellers are advised to check their eligibility and apply well in advance through the official portal

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