The Department of Home Affairs, South Africa, has officially launched Phase 2 of the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), with a call for domestic tour operators to submit their applications within the next 30 days via a dedicated online portal. The initiative, gazetted in Government Gazette No. 52460 on April 4, 2025, is part of South Africa’s broader effort to modernize visa processing and attract more international tourists.
Following the success of Phase 1—which saw over 2,000 new tourist applications from China and India—Phase 2 aims to significantly expand this momentum by replacing the traditional paper-based visa system with a secure, digital-first infrastructure. The scheme is expected to enhance operational efficiency, bolster tourism, and contribute to South Africa’s economic growth.
Applications will only be accepted through the Department of Home Affairs’ website, with no paper-based submissions permitted. An interdepartmental panel, supported by AI-powered assessment tools, will evaluate submissions to ensure transparency and efficiency in selecting qualified tour operators.
South Africa anticipates strong participation from tour operators across the country as it continues to position itself as a leading destination for global travelers through innovation and streamlined travel facilitation.
