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South Africa Launches AI-Powered Travel Authorisation System

9/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

South Africa's Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, will launch the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system on September 18, 2025, at the TBCSA conference.
The ETA will digitize entry procedures and automate background checks using artificial intelligence.
Initially, it will handle tourist visa applications for stays up to 90 days at Johannesburg and Cape Town airports.
The system will expand to other ports and visa categories, aiming for digital visas for all entrants.
Experts highlight that improved cross-border movement could boost regional economies and support the AfCFTA.

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Story summary

South Africa's Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, will launch the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system on September 18, 2025, at the TBCSA conference.
The ETA will digitize entry procedures and automate background checks using artificial intelligence.
Initially, it will handle tourist visa applications for stays up to 90 days at Johannesburg and Cape Town airports.
The system will expand to other ports and visa categories, aiming for digital visas for all entrants.
Experts highlight that improved cross-border movement could boost regional economies and support the AfCFTA.