Johannesburg – South Africa’s immigration system is set for a major digital overhaul with the official launch of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) platform at OR Tambo International Airport on 12 August.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially unveil the new digital system, which government says will transform the way travellers enter the country by strengthening border security while simplifying immigration processes for legitimate visitors.
The Presidency announced on Thursday that the launch follows the successful pilot of the ETA during South Africa’s G20 Presidency and forms part of the Department of Home Affairs’ broader digital transformation programme.
According to the Presidency, the ETA is “the cornerstone of South Africa’s modern digital immigration system and the flagship reform of the Department of Home Affairs’ digital transformation programme.”
The platform combines advanced biometric verification, machine learning technology and the upgraded Electronic Movement Control System (eMCS 2.0) to create a modern digital immigration ecosystem.
Government said the system is designed to strengthen border security while making travel to South Africa “faster, simpler and more secure for legitimate travellers.”
Officials said the reform is expected to improve South Africa’s competitiveness as a destination for tourism, business and investment, while supporting more efficient and secure border management.
“The launch marks a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority (BMA), demonstrating Government’s commitment to harnessing technology to improve service delivery, safeguard national security and facilitate economic growth,” the Presidency said.
Ramaphosa will launch the ETA alongside Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber. Border Management Authority Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato will then lead a live demonstration of the new platform and guide delegates through the upgraded digital border management system.
The launch event will take place at OR Tambo International Airport from 2pm to 4pm on Wednesday, 12 August.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
