South Africa ETA Guide for Indians 2026: Requirements, Rules & Child Application Explained

South Africa ETA guide for Indian travelers 2026

South Africa ETA Guide for Indians 2026: Step-by-Step Process & Important Rules

South Africa has introduced a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, and many Indian travelers are still confused about who needs it, how to apply, and whether it is mandatory at immigration. This updated guide explains everything clearly—requirements, documents, child application rules, and 2026 changes—so you can travel without stress.

What Is the South Africa ETA?

The South Africa ETA is a digital travel authorization that must be approved before boarding your flight. It verifies your identity, screens security risks, and shares your approval directly with the airline and border control.

Who Needs the South Africa ETA in 2026?

South Africa rolled out the ETA system in multiple phases:

Phase 1 – Mid-October 2025

The ETA was first launched for G20 delegates from:

• India

• China

• Indonesia

• Mexico

It was valid only at three airports:

• OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)

• Cape Town International Airport

• Lanseria International Airport

Phase 2 – Late November 2025 (Current Stage)

The ETA is now required for all tourists and business travelers from the same four countries.

If you are Indian and flying to any of the above airports, you must apply online before departure.
There is no ETA on arrival. Without approval, entry will be denied.

2026 Update – Future Expansion

The South African government plans to extend:

• ETA eligibility to more nationalities

• Coverage to all ports of entry (land, sea, and air)

For now, all Indian travelers must complete the online ETA before traveling in 2026.

Documents Needed Before Applying (Checklist)

Prepare these items before starting the ETA application:

• Valid Indian passport

• Recent passport-style photo

• Basic travel information

• Active email address (for OTP and approval)

• For minors:

  • Unabridged birth certificate

  • Consent affidavit (if traveling with one parent)

  • Parent’s ID or passport

The ETA process is fully digital, secure, and provides real-time updates.

Important for Indians:
Currently, the portal does not show any fee for the ETA application.

South Africa ETA Validity & Stay Duration

• The ETA is valid for 12 months

• You may stay up to 90 days per visit

• Approval is automatically shared with your airline and local immigration system

How to Apply for the South Africa ETA (Step-by-Step)

1. Visit the official ETA portal.

2. Create your personal account.

3. Fill in passport and personal details.

4. Upload your photo and required documents.

5. Submit the application and wait for approval (24–48 hours).

6. Once approved, the system automatically updates airline and border control records.

Special Rules for Children (Very Important for Indian Travelers)

Minors cannot create their own login, but they still require an individual ETA.

How Parents Must Apply for a Child

1. Parent creates their own ETA profile.

2. Select “Apply on behalf of a minor.”

3. A separate application opens for the child.

Documents Required for Minors

• Child’s passport

• Unabridged birth certificate

• Consent affidavit (if only one parent is traveling)

• Parent’s ID or passport

• Child’s photo or live capture

These steps help prevent illegal travel and support child protection laws.

Quick Summary: South Africa ETA for Indians

• Indians must apply online before arrival

• Processing time: 24–48 hours

• No application fee currently

• Validity: 12 months

• Children require separate ETA through parent’s account

• Mandatory at Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Lanseria airports

Follow the process correctly to avoid immigration issues or denied boarding. 

Watch here on how to apply for South Africa ETA in 2026