Tourism Minister Applauds New Visa System Enhancements to Attract More Tourists from China and India

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has praised significant improvements to South Africa’s visa system, particularly focusing on the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme, Electronic Travel Authorisation, and Digital Nomad Visas. These updates, designed in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and Operation Vulindlela, aim to simplify the visa application process, specifically for tourists from China and India—two of the country’s key tourism markets.

“We’ve made notable progress in the past year, especially with the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme. This initiative will make it easier for travellers and tour operators from China and India to obtain visas,” De Lille said. She further mentioned the launch of the Electronic Travel Authorisation and the Digital Nomad Visas as other important steps toward improving the visa experience for international visitors.

[Media Statement] Minister of Tourism, @PatriciaDeLille welcomes and congratulates Department of Home Affairs for visa regime enhancements. https://t.co/a1eCx1uBDS @HomeAffairsSA #WeDoTourism pic.twitter.com/mimO4vnqJk

— Dept of Tourism (@Tourism_gov_za) February 12, 2025

With tourism playing a crucial role in South Africa’s economy, De Lille highlighted the sector’s contribution to job creation and economic growth. “We are expecting an increase in arrivals, with nearly 9 million visitors projected in 2024. This will not only support the economy but also enhance the tourism sector’s inclusivity,” she said.

The Trusted Tour Operator Scheme, which officially launched recently, now allows 65 approved tour operators from South Africa, China, and India to process visas digitally, making the process more efficient and convenient for travellers.

De Lille commended Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber and his team for their continued efforts to improve the system. She expressed confidence that these reforms would help increase tourist arrivals from both China and India, solidifying South Africa’s position as a top global tourist destination.

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