Visa Information | Campfire

Immigration and visa guidelines

Some countries are visa-exempt for travel to South Africa, meaning their citizens may not need to apply for a visa. Please consult the Visa-exempt countries list Visa-exempt countries (DIRCO) to confirm the requirements for your nationality.

Delegates who need to apply may be able to use one of two electronic application routes: the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or the Electronic Visa (eVisa).

Please check which route applies to your circumstances. After submitting your application, you should receive a reference number and receipt. Please email a copy to our PCO at [email protected]. The PCO can use these details to liaise with the relevant South African authorities and support the process.

We have also prepared a summary of visa application guidelines for international guests travelling to South Africa to attend OB-PS 2027. Supporting information is available through the links provided.

All international delegates are encouraged to check their South African immigration requirements well in advance of travel to help avoid delays,

boarding difficulties, or possible refusal of entry.

ETA – Electronic Travel Authorisation

The ETA is South Africa's digital travel authorisation system, introduced by the Department of Home Affairs to simplify entry for eligible international visitors.

It is available to eligible travellers from visa-required countries.
Visa-exempt travellers may also be able to apply voluntarily for faster border processing. Visa-exempt countries (DIRCO)
It is intended for short visits, including tourism and eligible business or visitor purposes.
It is electronically linked to the traveller's passport.
It can allow multiple entries during its validity period, subject to the conditions issued.
It does not permit employment in South Africa.

Official application portal:

South African ETA Application Portal

2. eVisa – Electronic Visa

International guests who require a visa but are not eligible for the ETA must follow the applicable South African visa application process.

The eVisa is an electronic alternative to applying for a traditional visa through a South African embassy or consulate, where the relevant nationality and visa category are supported.

Typical supporting requirements include:

Valid passport.
Completed online application.
Passport photograph and other requested biometric information.
Invitation letter from the OB-PS 2027 organisers.
Proof of accommodation.
Return or onward flight ticket.
Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the visit.
Yellow fever vaccination certificate, where applicable.
Payment of the applicable visa fee.

Official eVisa portal:

South African eVisa Application Portal

Important: The ETA and eVisa are not interchangeable. Eligibility depends on nationality, passport type, purpose of travel and designated entry arrangements.

3. Important travel and application guidelines

All OB-PS 2027 international guests are advised to:

Confirm their visa or ETA eligibility based on their nationality.
Ensure their passport is valid for the intended travel period and has sufficient blank pages- more than 3 at least.
Apply well in advance of their departure. As a practical planning measure, allow at least 6–8 weeks, particularly where an embassy application or additional assessment is required.
Keep a copy of their approved ETA or eVisa.Carry their OB-PS 2027 invitation or registration confirmation.
Have proof of accommodation and return or onward travel available.
Ensure that their travel purpose is correctly declared as conference attendance or a business/visitor visit, as applicable.

For ETA applicants, the current portal identifies four enabled international airports: OR Tambo, Cape Town, King Shaka and Lanseria. Guests should verify the permitted entry airport before booking flights.

4. Official government resources

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