TTOS’s impact has been so remarkable that a second phase has already been launched. Starting with 65 trusted operators at the outset, an additional 45 have now joined, bringing the total to 110 participants. This expansion aims to scale the system’s capacity and generate a multiplier effect on both tourism and the economy.
Since its implementation, the scheme has facilitated the arrival of 25,024 additional tourists to South Africa—travelers who otherwise might have been deterred by delays and the complexity of the traditional visa process. This increase has had a tangible impact on formal employment: according to projections from the Operation Vulindlela program, every 13 tourists translate into at least one new job. Based on this calculation, the first phase of TTOS has already helped create approximately 1,924 jobs.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber has emphasized that this progress is a concrete example of the transformative power of digitalization as a driver of economic growth. In his words, the system “demonstrates the strength of our digital transformation agenda to drive economic growth and create jobs.” Furthermore, TTOS’s success paves the way for new immigration reforms, including the introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and specialized visas for events or creative industries—measures that will further strengthen the country’s digital strategy.
The adoption of this 100% digital approach represents a qualitative leap in government management, replacing outdated procedures with secure, fast, and efficient online solutions. The positive effects extend beyond tourism and employment: they position South Africa as a regional leader in administrative innovation and offer a more attractive experience for international travelers.
The TTOS digital visa program has proven to be a catalyst for both tourism flows and the country’s economic revitalization. With more than 25,000 visitors welcomed in just six months, nearly 2,000 jobs generated, and significant expansion already underway, South Africa reaffirms its commitment to a digital agenda with real impact. This push to modernize immigration systems not only enhances the visitor experience but also lays the groundwork for a more dynamic and prosperous future for both its tourism industry and its economy.
