As the world slowly returns to normal, the travel bug that has been munching away at people throughout each lockdown is biting once again. 

With its abundance of natural beauty, and a harmonious blend of rural meets urban almost everywhere you go, South Africa is at the top of many a travel bucket list. Is it at the very top of yours? 

If you’re planning on visiting this stunning country, you’ll need to know what the international entry requirements into South Africa are as well as where you can and can’t go while you’re in the country. 

What Are the International Entry Requirements into South Africa? 

Under the rules of adjusted alert level 2, there are only a handful of international entry requirements into South Africa that visitors must be aware of. South Africa is completely open to travellers from all parts of the world and for all purposes—business or leisure.

Before entering South Africa, you must ensure that you are aware of and prepared for the following: 

• You must present a negative PCR test that is not more than 72 hours old 
• As far as possible, make sure that you arrive before the current curfew kicks in (11 pm to 4 am) 
• You will need to fill in a Traveller Health Questionnaire at the airport 
• You will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms at the airport (if you have symptoms, you will be tested and sent into self-quarantine or self-isolation) 

During your visit to South Africa, you will need to wear a face mask in public at all times and adhere to the proper social distancing guidelines. All guidelines, though a bit of a nuisance, are in place for your safety and the safety of South Africa’s people.    

When Are Inter-Provincial Travel Permits Needed in South Africa? 

At the time of writing, once you’re in South Africa, you are free to explore this beautiful country and all its provinces. Under the rules of adjusted alert level 2, all inter-provincial travel is permitted. This means that you can leave one province and enter another without fear of repercussion. 

If you arrive at OR Tambo, Lanseria, or King Shaka airports, you can easily make your way to the Mother City and won’t be breaking any rules when doing so. 

Should the alert level change, you may need to obtain an inter-provincial travel permit. The specific inter-provincial travel permit you need will depend on your circumstances (for example, Form 7 is a Permit to Travel to Perform a Service while Form 4 is a Permit to Travel for a Funeral). 

No matter which inter-provincial travel permit form you fill in, it will need to be affirmed at a police station or a magistrate’s court.  

Conclusion 

South Africa is a country that truly has something to offer everyone. And because, at the time of writing, all inter provincial travel is allowed, visitors can explore every inch of this beautiful country. When will you be booking your ticket?