# South Africa Electronic Travel Authorisation implementation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-africa-electronic-travel-authorisation-implementation > Updated: 2026-08-12T17:04:48.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. South Africa has implemented a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to modernize its immigration process and facilitate easier access for international visitors. Initially, the system was highlighted for its ability to allow eligible Indian passport holders to apply online for short-stay visas for tourism or work, with processing times between 24 and 48 hours. The digital authorization is linked to the traveler’s passport and supports multiple entries for stays of up to 90 days. Following the rollout, President Cyril Ramaphosa inaugurated the system at O.R. Tambo International Airport, noting that the reform aims to make travel “faster, simpler, and more predictable” while enhancing border security. The digital platform utilizes biometric verification, facial recognition, and machine learning. While initially available to travelers from India, China, Indonesia, and Mexico, the government intends to expand the system to additional countries to support tourism, trade, and investment. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-12: South Africa launches digital Electronic Travel Authorisation system South Africa has launched a digital Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for travelers from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico to streamline immigration and enhance border security. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-africa-launches-digital-electronic-travel-authorisation-system ### 2026-07-25: South Africa Expands Tourism with New 48‑Hour ETA Visa for Indian Travelers South Africa’s new ETA lets Indian passport holders apply online for a 48‑hour visa, enabling multiple entries for up to 90 days and promoting tourism to sites like Cape Town and the Winelands. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-africa-expands-tourism-with-new-48hour-eta-visa-for-indian-travelers --- Cite as: South Africa Electronic Travel Authorisation implementation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-africa-electronic-travel-authorisation-implementation