Ramaphosa Launches South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorisation

President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially unveil South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) at OR Tambo International Airport on 12 August 2026. The ceremony follows a successful pilot run during the country's G20 Presidency and will be attended by Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber and Border Management Authority Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato.

The ETA integrates biometric verification, machine‑learning checks and an upgraded Electronic Movement Control System (eMCS 2.0) to streamline border processing, enhance security and improve the country's appeal for tourism, business and investment. The launch is presented as a cornerstone of the Department of Home Affairs' digital transformation programme and a step toward a modern, efficient immigration ecosystem.