South Africa ETA Is Live: How the New Travel Permit Works and What It Costs
South Africa now issues a digital travel permit before you fly. Here is who can use it, what it costs, how long approval takes, and the second form every traveller has to file. The post South Africa ETA Is Live: How the New Travel Permit Works and What It Costs appeared first on The Rio Times .
South Africa's new electronic travel authorization (ETA) went live on August 12th, 2026, at four major airports. The permit allows short-stay visitors to apply online and pay before boarding their flight. President Cyril Ramaphosa launched the initiative at OR Tambo International Airport. The permit covers stays of up to 90 days and can be extended by an additional 90 days under the Immigration Act.
The system was piloted during South Africa's G20 presidency, handling 216,204 applications by launch day. A processing fee of R500 (approximately $31) applies to each application, with a visa fee of R425 (approximately $26) for those requiring a visa. The total cost is R925 (around $57), with no refunds for rejected applications.
An online traveller declaration is also required by South Africa's tax and customs authority, SARS, within 24 hours of departure. The permit is integrated into the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) and is mandatory for nationals of certain countries. To apply, travelers must register a profile, verify their mobile number and email, scan their passport, upload a selfie, and pay the processing fee.
The system then performs an automated risk check, and approved applicants receive their authorization within 24 hours.
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