Travellers from across Africa could soon face an additional cost when visiting South Africa if the country’s proposed R500 Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) processing fee is approved.
The Department of Home Affairs recently published draft regulations proposing the new fee as part of South Africa’s transition to a digital immigration system aimed at modernising visa processing, improving border security and reducing fraud.
However, the proposal is not yet law.
The draft regulations are open for public comment until 11 August 2026, after which the government will consider submissions before deciding whether to implement the fee.
How South Africa’s proposed ETA fee would work
Under the draft regulations, travellers applying through South Africa’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) platform would pay a R500 processing fee.
The ETA is a digital travel authorisation system designed to replace much of the traditional paper-based visa application process. Instead of submitting applications manually, eligible travellers would apply online before travelling to South Africa.
According to the Department of Home Affairs, the proposed fee would help fund the operation and maintenance of the new digital platform while supporting the country’s broader immigration modernisation programme.
Which African travellers could be affected by South Africa’s proposed ETA fee?
Not every African traveller would automatically have to pay the proposed R500 fee.
The charge would primarily apply to travellers who are required to obtain travel authorisation through the ETA system.
South Africa is expected to roll out the platform in phases, with different nationalities joining the system over time.
Travellers from countries that currently enjoy visa-free access to South Africa are expected to continue using existing arrangements unless the final regulations specify otherwise.
Meanwhile, travellers from countries that require visas to enter South Africa could eventually use the ETA platform instead of the traditional visa application process once it is fully implemented.
How the proposed ETA fee could increase travel costs
If approved, the additional R500 processing fee would increase the upfront cost of travelling to South Africa for many visitors.
The extra expense could affect:
For frequent travellers, particularly those making multiple trips each year, the additional fee could become a significant travel expense.
Why South Africa is introducing the ETA
The Department of Home Affairs says the ETA forms part of its broader effort to digitise immigration services and improve border management.
Officials say the online system is expected to:
The department has described the ETA as a key part of South Africa’s long-term digital transformation of immigration services.
When South Africa’s proposed ETA fee could take effect
The proposed R500 fee remains subject to public consultation.
Interested individuals and organisations have until 11 August 2026 to submit comments on the draft regulations.
After reviewing public submissions, the Minister of Home Affairs may amend, approve or withdraw the proposal before publishing the final regulations.
If approved, the fee would come into effect on a date determined by the minister as South Africa continues rolling out its Electronic Travel Authorisation system.
