Proposed R500 ETA fee: what African travellers need to know

South Africa has proposed a R500 processing fee for its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, according to draft regulations published by the Department of Home Affairs. The fee would apply to travellers required to obtain authorisation through the ETA platform as the department moves to digitise immigration services.

How the ETA fee would work

Under the draft regulations, applicants using the ETA platform would pay R500 as a processing fee. The ETA is described in the draft as a digital travel-authorisation system intended to replace much of the traditional paper-based visa application process by enabling eligible travellers to apply online before travel.

Who could be affected

The draft regulations state the charge would primarily apply to travellers required to obtain travel authorisation through the ETA. The department expects the platform to be rolled out in phases, with different nationalities joining the system over time. The draft says travellers from countries that currently enjoy visa-free access to South Africa are expected to continue using existing arrangements unless the final regulations specify otherwise.

Why the fee is proposed

The Department of Home Affairs says the proposed fee would help fund the operation and maintenance of the new digital platform and support the broader immigration modernisation programme. The department has described the ETA as part of its effort to digitise immigration services and improve border management, including speeding up processing, reducing document fraud and improving security through digital verification.

Potential impact on travellers

If the fee is approved, the R500 charge would increase the upfront cost of travelling to South Africa for those required to use the ETA. The draft notes the extra expense could affect a range of visitors, including tourists, business travellers, students and families visiting relatives, and could be significant for frequent travellers who make multiple trips each year.

Next steps and timing

The draft regulations were published for public comment and the consultation period is open until 11 August 2026. After that date, the government will consider submissions before deciding whether to implement the fee. The minister of home affairs may amend, approve or withdraw the proposal, and if approved the fee would come into effect on a date determined by the minister as the ETA system is rolled out.