South Africa Opens Second Round of Applications for Trusted Tour Operator Scheme to Boost Arrivals
South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has opened a second round of applications for its Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), following strong demand from the tourism sector. The expansion, gazetted by Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber on 4 April 2025, comes after successful digital visa processing for tourists from China and India was launched on 12 February. The scheme enables approved operators to fast-track visa applications through an entirely digital system, part of a broader effort to improve visitor access and support economic growth.
Tour operators have 30 days to apply via the online portal, with applications screened using AI tools and interdepartmental evaluation. Since its launch, TTOS has facilitated the entry of over 2,000 additional tourists from key Asian markets, with daily application volumes continuing to rise. The scheme’s expansion is part of Home Affairs’ ongoing effort to modernise South Africa's visa system and strengthen the role of tourism in job creation and economic development.
Source: Gov.za
