e-Visa System Expanded and Passport Processing Reforms Updated

What changed

The South African Department of Home Affairs is making major digital changes. They are expanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. It will cover more than just tourist visas, such as study visas. They are also expanding the Trusted Employer Scheme to include important parts of the economy. These changes aim to make services digital, reduce complex rules (red tape), and make things work better for South African citizens and people travelling to or investing in the country. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has been tested in four countries. It will become the main part of a full digital immigration system.

What changed

India has updated its official rules for e-Visa eligibility and fees. The government's fee tables, from 9 July 2026, set specific fees for the e-Tourist Visa. These fees vary by country and by the visa's length: 30 days, one year, or five years. For the 30-day visa, the fee also depends on the travel period. The current e-Visa system covers: e-Tourist Visa; e-Business Visa; e-Medical Visa; e-Medical Attendant Visa; e-Conference Visa.

What changed

The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advice for Nigeria. The advice remains 'Level 3: Reconsider Travel'. The summary now gives more details about the risks. These risks include violent crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and inadequate health care. This update tells U.S. citizens about the current dangers in Nigeria. It also confirms the existing 'Do Not Travel' advice for many states.

What changed

Japan has given more foreign people access to its JAPAN eVISA system. Eligible people living in more countries and regions can now apply online for a short-term tourist visa. As of 15 May 2026, the system works for eligible people living in Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It also works for eligible people living in China, the Philippines, Viet Nam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, South Korea, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Different application rules apply to these last countries. The electronic visa (eVISA) is currently for single-entry tourism trips that last up to 90 days. It does not cover work, study, family visits, or other long-term reasons to travel.