(a) The type of automated online tourism visa application system the Department has launched is the electronic-visa (e-Visa) system which is similar to the ones many other countries have implemented. The e-Visa platform is designed to accept tourism visas. This is a fully automated system whereby clients apply for their tourist visas online, pay online as well as upload their supporting documents for adjudication at the hub in Pretoria.
(b)(i – iv) The e-Visa is a fully automated system that was launched to allow clients to apply for their tourist visas from the convenience of their homes.
(c) The e-Visa system was piloted in 2022, enhanced in April 2023 and expanded to 20 additional non-visa exempted countries. In total there are 34 countries who are utilising this system.
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