South Africa Plans to Phase Out Trusted Tour Operator Scheme in Shift to Digital Visa Processing
South Africa's Department of Home Affairs is planning to phase out the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) as part of a broader move toward fully digital visa processing. Launched as a pilot in 2024, the TTOS was designed to streamline group visa applications from key markets such as China and India by allowing approved tour operators to submit applications on behalf of travelling groups - a targeted measure aimed at reducing long-standing visa barriers that have suppressed arrivals from Asia. Minister Leon Schreiber has indicated the scheme will be absorbed into the country's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which is being positioned as the single platform for all visa categories.
However, the planned transition has drawn concern from industry stakeholders who warn the shift is premature. Practical gaps in the ETA system have also been identified, including the inability to edit submitted applications, the absence of a clear support channel for resolving issues, and inadequate provisions for family and children's visas. For operators reliant on group travel, the concern is that removing the TTOS without a fully tested and fit-for-purpose alternative could undermine rather than accelerate growth in these critical source markets.
Source: The South African