Eswatini to address eVisa system issues for improved visitor entry.

The Prime Minister acknowledged current eVisa system shortcomings at the Tourism Nkwe Indaba conference on 17 September 2026. These issues include delays in application processing, payment failures, and the absence of a manual backup, particularly affecting peak travel times. Industry representatives have reported visitors waiting up to five days for visas and some being stranded at the airport upon arrival. The government pledged to respond swiftly, acknowledging that a frustrating visa system contradicts tourism goals.

However, specific technical solutions or an implementation timeline for improvements were not provided. No plans to introduce a manual backup were announced, despite the current lack thereof. The changes do not affect eligibility criteria, visa fees, or the permitted duration of stay for any nationality, including those already visa-exempt.