Ramaphosa to Launch South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation System
Pretoria, The Gulf Observer: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to officially launch the country’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) next week, marking a major step in the government’s efforts to modernise the immigration system through digital technology.
The launch is scheduled to take place at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, following the successful pilot implementation of the system during South Africa’s G20 Presidency.
According to the Presidency, the ETA will serve as a cornerstone of the country’s modern digital immigration system and as a flagship reform under the Department of Home Affairs’ digital transformation programme.
The system combines advanced biometric verification, machine learning and the upgraded Electronic Movement Control System (eMCS 2.0) to create an integrated digital immigration ecosystem.
The Presidency said the technology is designed to strengthen border security while making travel to South Africa faster, simpler and more secure for legitimate travellers.
The new digital platform is also expected to enhance South Africa’s competitiveness as a destination for tourism, business and investment, while improving the efficiency and security of border management.
The government said the initiative represents a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority (BMA).
The Presidency noted that the reform demonstrates the government’s commitment to harnessing technology to improve public service delivery, strengthen national security and facilitate economic growth.
President Ramaphosa will formally unveil the Electronic Travel Authorisation alongside Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber.
The launch programme will also feature a live demonstration of the ETA system, followed by a guided tour led by Border Management Authority Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato.
The introduction of the ETA forms part of South Africa’s broader efforts to modernise immigration and border management by using digital technologies to improve security, efficiency and the overall experience of international travellers.
