President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa is sending a strong message to the world with the launch of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system at OR Tambo International Airport.
Ramaphosa says the new digital system will make travel to South Africa easier, faster and more predictable, while strengthening border security.
Speaking at the launch on Wednesday, he described the ETA as more than a digital platform, saying it forms part of government’s broader efforts to make the country more open to opportunity and competitive in the global economy.
The system allows eligible travellers to apply online from anywhere in the world without visiting a South African mission or visa processing centre.
Ramaphosa says the initiative will encourage tourism, support trade and attract investment.
“Visa reform is therefore not simply an immigration reform. It is an economic reform. It is a jobs reform.”
The President says increased tourism and investment could translate into more hotel bookings, restaurant activity, flights, conferences and opportunities for South Africans.
The ETA was initially introduced in four strategic source markets — China, India, Indonesia and Mexico — to support South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Presidency.
Ramaphosa says government is preparing to expand the system to additional countries, with digital processing eventually extending to work visas, study visas and other immigration services.
He says the modernised system will also strengthen border management through improved biometric verification, identity management and risk assessment.
“A modern immigration system is not a weaker immigration system. It is a smarter immigration system,” Ramaphosa said.
The President says the launch forms part of the broader Operation Vulindlela reforms aimed at removing structural barriers to economic growth, investment and job creation.
He says the ETA marks another milestone in government’s efforts to build a modern, efficient and competitive South Africa.
