South Africa grants 90 day stays via AI powered ETA for 4 nations

South Africa now requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for ordinary passport holders from China (Mainland), India, Indonesia and Mexico who enter through select airports for tourism or business. The system is fully implemented for non-visa-exempt visitors, with Phase 2 live since Feb. 12, 2026.

The ETA is handled online and uses AI for pre-arrival screening. Approved travelers can make multiple entries for up to 90 days per visit and request one 90-day extension. It doesn't allow work or study. Foreign nationals with South African residence or work permits are exempt.

Who it affects now

The current rules mainly affect short-stay tourists and business travelers from the listed countries arriving at OR Tambo International, Cape Town International or Lanseria. Travelers who need a visa and don't have ETA approval can be turned away at the border. Visa-exempt nationals, including travelers from the U.S., EU and Brazil, aren't covered by the mandate.

Digital nomads need a separate visa, such as South Africa’s Remote Work Visa, because the ETA excludes employment. The country also has a eVisa for some short-term conference and digital nomad travel, but that's a separate route.

What travelers need to do

Applicants must apply online before departure with a valid ordinary passport, travel and accommodation details, document scans and payment. After approval, the system issues a QR code for automated gates. There is no on-arrival option.

Fees are set through reciprocal visa arrangements, but South Africa hasn't published the exact amounts. Travelers heading to covered airports should check the official portal early, since the eVisa alternative has had glitches and the ETA is the safer option for time-sensitive trips.

Read our full South Africa guide for the complete picture.