Travel authorization · checked 3 Nov 2026

South Africa ETA: who needs it and how to apply

The short answerSouth Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital pre-travel approval launched on August 12, 2026. Go to the official site.

The official link goes to eta.dha.gov.za. NUM isn’t a government agency or a visa service. Rules change, so confirm on the official site before you pay or travel.

At a glance

The South Africa ETA in brief.

Fee	See the official site

Who it’s for

Do you need it?

It’s being rolled out in phases, and travel sites report it opened first for China, India, Indonesia and Mexico. Check the official site for your passport before you plan around it.

Before you fly

Data the moment you land in South Africa

A NUM eSIM on Cell C 4G, MTN, Telkom 3G: install on wifi before you go, switch it on when you land, keep your own number. Your NUM concierge comes with it.

Get my South Africa eSIM All plans and networks

Prices on 4 Nov 2026; the shop shows today’s, and the price on the pay button is the price you pay. Full refund if we can’t issue it.

Before you start

What to have ready.

A valid passport.

Step by step

How to get the South Africa ETA.

Check it applies to you. It’s being rolled out in phases, and travel sites report it opened first for China, India, Indonesia and Mexico. Check the official site for your passport before you plan around it.
Get these ready. A valid passport.
Apply on the official site only. That’s eta.dha.gov.za.

Watch outDon’t assume you need it. UK travelers can still visit visa-free for up to 90 days.

Not sure your passport needs the South Africa ETA? See the full South Africa entry requirements for 33 passports, including passport validity and what to show at the border.

Questions

The short answers.

What is the best eVisa for South Africa?

South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital pre-travel approval launched on August 12, 2026. Apply on the official site, unless you want to pay a private service for help.

Who needs the South Africa ETA?

It’s being rolled out in phases, and travel sites report it opened first for China, India, Indonesia and Mexico. Check the official site for your passport before you plan around it.

How much does it cost?

We couldn’t confirm the fee on a government page, so we’re not quoting one. The official site shows the current price.

Is the South Africa ETA a visa?

No. It’s a travel authorization: permission to board and travel for people who don’t need a visa. If you need a visa, the South Africa ETA doesn’t replace it.

What do I need to apply?

A valid passport.

Does NUM issue the South Africa ETA?

No. NUM isn’t a government agency or a visa service, and we don’t decide applications. We explain what’s needed and link to the official site.

The rest of the trip

Land connected.

Get your data ready before you fly with a South Africa eSIM. Need anything else? Text NUM.

Sources