South Africa Visa & Entry Requirements
Last checked 15 October 2026
Many visitors can come to South Africa for a holiday without applying for a visa in advance, and a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is being rolled out for those who do need permission to visit. Here is what to check before you book flights. Rules change, so always confirm with the Department of Home Affairs or your nearest South African embassy.
Who can visit without a visa?
Citizens of many countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and most European Union countries, can visit South Africa as tourists without a visa for up to 90 days. Some countries are allowed shorter visa-free stays, and others need a visa before travelling. Check the Home Affairs list for your passport before you book.
The new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
South Africa officially launched its online Electronic Travel Authorisation in August 2026, after a pilot that began in late 2025. You apply online, verify your phone and email, scan your passport and upload a selfie, and approvals are usually issued within a day. It started with travellers from China, India, Indonesia and Mexico and is being opened to more countries. A processing fee of R500 applies. For visa-exempt travellers the ETA is currently optional; for travellers from countries that need a visa it is gradually becoming the way to apply. Apply only through the official portal, eta.dha.gov.za.
Passport rules
Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days after the date you plan to leave South Africa and have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Airlines may refuse boarding if it doesn't, so check well before you fly.
Travelling with children
Rules for minors have been relaxed in recent years, but if you are travelling with children, carry each child's birth certificate. If a child is travelling with only one parent or with another adult, also carry a signed consent letter from the absent parent or parents. Check current Home Affairs guidance before you travel.
Yellow fever certificate
If you are travelling from, or have recently passed through, a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, you'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter South Africa. Your travel clinic can confirm whether this applies to your route.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
Not if you hold a passport from a visa-exempt country such as the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or most EU countries, for tourist stays of up to 90 days. Other nationalities may need a visa or an ETA, so check the Home Affairs list for your passport.
Do I need the South African ETA?
If your country is visa-exempt, the ETA is currently optional. If your country needs a visa, the ETA is being rolled out as the way to apply for short tourist stays. Use only the official portal at eta.dha.gov.za.
How much does the South African ETA cost?
A R500 electronic processing fee applies to ETA applications. Travellers who need a visa may pay a separate visa fee as well.
How long can I stay in South Africa as a tourist?
Visa-exempt visitors are usually allowed up to 90 days, although some nationalities get 30 days. Your permitted stay is confirmed by the entry stamp in your passport.
Official sources
Rules and advice change. Always confirm with the official source before you travel.