Understanding the UK’s new ETA visa rule: What South Africans need to know

While many countries will soon require Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), this new requirement doesn’t affect South African passport holders visiting the United Kingdom.

Lynette Machiri, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa, helps navigate these changes that have sparked considerable discussion in travel circles.

Who does it impact?

“It’s crucial to understand that South African passport holders are not affected by the new ETA system,” explains Machiri. “The ETA is specifically designed for nationals from visa-exempt countries. South Africans must continue following the existing visa application process for UK travel.”

However, understanding the new system remains relevant as it impacts the broader travel ecosystem, including:

• Business professionals working with international partners

• Those coordinating travel for overseas visitors

• South African residents holding passports from visa-exempt countries

• Dual citizens who may be eligible to use the ETA with their other passport

• Travel agents and business travel coordinators managing diverse traveller needs

Understanding the ETA rollout

The UK government is implementing this significant change to their border control system in phases:

• November 27, 2024: Initial introduction

• January 8, 2025: Non-European countries

• April 2, 2025: European countries

This new system aligns the UK with similar protocols used in the U.S. and EU, affecting travellers from visa-free countries. The ETA aims to enhance border security while streamlining the entry process for eligible travellers, creating a more efficient travel environment for all visitors to the UK.

What to do if you need an ETA? (i.e. you don’t currently need a visa to enter the UK)

The ETA is mandatory for all non-visa overseas visitors to the UK, except for Irish nationals.

“All visa-exempt foreign nationals visiting the UK will need to obtain the ETA,” emphasises Machiri. “It doesn’t matter where you are departing from or country of origin – it’s your nationality that counts.”

The important details (like how much does it cost?)

• £10 per application
• Valid for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
• Everyone travelling will need an ETA, including infants and children

What can you do with an ETA?

• Stay up to six months for tourism, visiting friends and family, business or short-term study
• Spend up to three months in the UK on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Transit through the UK, even when you’re not going through border control
• Make multiple visits within the validity period

How to apply

• Use the UK ETA app or visit www.gov.uk
• You can apply on behalf of others
• Standard processing time is three working days
• ETA is electronically linked to your passport
• Successful applicants receive email confirmation

Important notes:

• During the initial rollout, please chat to your travel expert about the most current and up-to-date requirements (including pending applications)
• Once fully implemented, you must have approval before travel
• If your ETA is refused, you’ll need to apply for an appropriate visa instead
• If you apply for – and receive – a new passport, you will need to get a new ETA
• The granting of an ETA does not mean automatic entry into the UK, it allows you to travel to the UK

You may be refused if you:

• Have a current UK deportation or exclusion order
• Have a significant criminal history
• Have previously overstayed in the UK
• Have outstanding debts to the UK

What to do if you need a visa still? (i.e. the majority of South African passport holders)

For South African passport holders planning UK trips, Machiri recommends:

• Maintaining the standard visa application timeline of at least 6-8 weeks before travel
• Ensuring all documentation meets current UK visa requirements
• Consulting with travel experts for the latest updates and requirements
• Being aware that visa requirements and processing times may vary based on the purpose of visit

UK TRAVEL CHECKLIST

□ Check passport validity (minimum 6 months)

□ Start visa application process (as early as 12 weeks before travel, but at least 6-8 weeks in advance, especially as delays can be experienced over peak holiday seasons)

□ Gather required documentation

□ Consult travel expert for the latest requirements

□ Verify visa requirements match travel purpose

□ Book travel insurance

□ Keep copies of all travel documents

The future of travel

As global systems increasingly embrace digital authorisation, South African travellers can anticipate potential benefits such as shorter queues and smoother processes at UK borders, even while maintaining traditional visa requirements.

“The modernisation of border control systems worldwide indicates a trend toward more efficient, secure travel processes that will ultimately benefit all international travellers,” notes Machiri.

Whether planning business trips or holiday getaways to the UK, South African passport holders can proceed with their usual visa application processes, knowing that the new ETA system is separate from existing requirements. As always, consulting with travel experts remains the best way to ensure all documentation is in order for a smooth journey to the United Kingdom.

AT A GLANCE

Key points for UK travel 2025

• WHO NEEDS AN ETA: Visa-exempt nationals only

• WHO NEEDS A VISA: South African passport holders

• TIMELINE: Allow at least 6-8 weeks for visa processing

• ROLLOUT DATES:

• November 27, 2024: Initial ETA introduction
• January 8, 2025: Non-European countries
• April 2, 2025: European countries

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