u.s. travel restrictions south africa

South Africa Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to South Africa

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

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Can I travel to South Africa from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Africa.

Can I travel to South Africa if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter South Africa without restrictions.

Can I travel to South Africa without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter South Africa without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter South Africa?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering South Africa.

Can I travel to South Africa without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in South Africa?

Mask usage in South Africa is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in South Africa?

Restaurants in South Africa are open. Bars in South Africa are .

U.S. to restrict travel from South Africa, 7 other nations amid new Covid variant

The U.S. will restrict travel from South Africa and seven other countries, effective Monday — a response to the emerging and newly named "omicron" variant of the coronavirus, President Joe Biden said Friday.

The policy, senior administration officials said, "was implemented out of an abundance of caution" and after advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Biden's chief medical adviser, Dr. Anthony Fauci.

Other countries included in the restriction — which does not apply to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents — are Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi.

"As we move forward," Biden said in a statement, "we will continue to be guided by what the science and my medical team advises."

Addressing reporters later in Nantucket, Massachusetts, where he and his family are spending Thanksgiving weekend, Biden described the restrictions as proactive.

"We don’t know a lot about the variant except it is a great concern, seems to spread rapidly,” the president said.

Omicron, classified by the World Health Organization as a "variant of concern," is blamed for a surge of cases in South Africa and has sparked fears over its high number of mutations, which make it potentially more transmissible and resistant to vaccines.

Biden emphasized the importance of vaccines and booster shots, urging fully vaccinated Americans to receive their boosters as soon as they're eligible and making an urgent appeal to unvaccinated people.

"America is leading the world in vaccinating children ages 5-11, and has been vaccinating teens for many months now — but we need more Americans in all age groups to get this life-saving protection," he said in Friday's statement. "If you have not gotten vaccinated, or have not taken your children to get vaccinated, now is the time."

U.S. stocks fell Friday , with the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing its worst day of the year as news of the variant — first detected in South Africa, with cases also identified in Asia and Europe — prompted concerns about prolonged pandemic troubles.

The WHO convened for an emergency meeting Friday, and the United Kingdom, the European Union and other countries already had announced they were restricting travel from the African continent.

“We don't know very much about this yet,” Maria Van Kerkhove, an infectious disease epidemiologist and the WHO’s Covid-19 technical lead, said in a Thursday video . “What we do know is that this variant has a large number of mutations. The concern is that when you have so many mutations it can have an impact on how the virus behaves.”

Biden directed part of his Friday statement to the "world community," asserting that the pandemic will not end "until we have global vaccinations."

"The United States has already donated more vaccines to other countries than every other country combined," Biden added. "It is time for other countries to match America’s speed and generosity."

Henry J. Gomez is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.

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Travel between the U.S. and southern Africa will resume, the White House says.

Biden will end the ban at midnight on Dec. 31, reversing restrictions imposed last month. South Africa criticized the ban as discriminatory.

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By Glenn Thrush and Lynsey Chutel

• Dec. 24, 2021

President Biden will remove the ban on travel between the United States and countries in southern Africa at midnight on Dec. 31, a senior administration official said on Friday, reversing restrictions imposed last month to combat the spread of the Omicron variant.

The region’s leaders had denounced the ban as unfair, discriminatory and unnecessary.

Mr. Biden made the decision this week on the advice of his medical team based on findings that existing Covid vaccines are effective against severe disease with the highly contagious Omicron variant, especially among people who have received a booster shot of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine, the senior official said in an email.

The decision followed the British government’s announcement on Tuesday that it was lifting its restrictions on travelers arriving from 11 African countries.

Officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also advised Mr. Biden and his team that Omicron, which has passed Delta as the dominant variant in the United States, was so widely present across the world that it no longer made sense to restrict travel to and from South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique and Namibia, the official said.

Coronavirus World Map: Tracking the Global Outbreak

The virus has infected and killed millions of people around the world. See detailed maps and charts for each country.

The ban was announced on Nov. 26, after officials in South Africa reported the emergence of the variant, which has a large number of mutations that allow it to evade the immune response of even vaccinated people. The ban went into effect at midnight on Nov. 29.

The countries in southern Africa will now be subject to the same protocols imposed on all nations, with a requirement that foreign incoming travelers be fully vaccinated and show proof of a negative coronavirus test within one day of their trips.

“We certainly welcome this development,” Clayson Monyela, head of public diplomacy in South Africa’s department of international relations, said on Friday. “We’ve always maintained that these travel bans were unscientific and discriminatory. They’ve had a devastating impact on our travel and tourism industry, on business and families.”

Lemogang Kwape, Botswana’s foreign minister, said officials there were delighted by the news. “We hope the world would come together as one to fight all the challenges that we are besieged with,” he added.

The restrictions drew immediate criticism from regional leaders, critics from Mr. Biden’s own party and international health officials.

“Travel restrictions may play a role in slightly reducing the spread of Covid-19 but place a heavy burden on lives and livelihoods,” Matshidiso Moeti, the regional director for Africa for the World Health Organization, said at the time the ban was announced. “If restrictions are implemented, they should not be unnecessarily invasive or intrusive, and should be scientifically based.”

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The U.S. is lifting its omicron-linked travel ban on southern Africa

The Associated Press

President Biden shown at a signing ceremony in the South Court Auditorium on the White House campus in Washington, on Thursday. The White House said Friday said it was lifting COVID-related travel restrictions on southern Africa. Patrick Semansky/AP hide caption

President Biden shown at a signing ceremony in the South Court Auditorium on the White House campus in Washington, on Thursday. The White House said Friday said it was lifting COVID-related travel restrictions on southern Africa.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. will lift travel restrictions on eight southern African countries that it imposed to try to blunt the spread of the COVID omicron variant, the White House announced Friday.

The variant, which was first detected by scientists in South Africa, has since spread around the world. The World Health Organization and leaders in southern Africa criticized the travel ban as ineffective and unfairly damaging to local economies.

The Nov. 29 ban barred nearly all non-U.S. citizens who had recently been in South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Namibia, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The restrictions will be lifted on New Year's Eve.

White House spokesman Kevin Munoz said on Twitter that the decision was recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Munoz said the temporary travel bans bought scientists necessary time to study the new virus variant and conclude that the current vaccinations are effective in blunting its impact.

Omicron is now spreading rapidly throughout the U.S., including among the vaccinated, but a huge majority of those being hospitalized are unvaccinated.

"The restrictions gave us time to understand Omicron and we know our existing vaccines work against Omicron, esp boosted," Munoz tweeted.

Much about the omicron coronavirus variant remains unknown; scientists say omicron spreads even easier than other coronavirus strains, including delta. The government reports that 73% of new infections nationwide are from the omicron variant. But while breakthrough infections among vaccinated people have become common, they have rarely led to severe illness or hospitalization.

The rapid advance of omicron, along with more people gathering indoors during winter, has led to a major infection spike. The seven-day rolling average for U.S. COVID-19 cases climbed past 160,000 this week, according to data collected by Johns Hopkins University. That's more than double the average in late November.

The rapid spread of the new variant hasn't overwhelmed most domestic hospital systems yet, but it has roiled businesses, sports leagues and Christmas travel plans across the country. Multiple NBA and NFL games have been rescheduled due to COVID outbreaks, and the Hawaii Bowl, scheduled for Friday, was canceled outright after Hawaii was forced to withdraw. Three major airlines have canceled dozens of domestic and international flights, citing staffing shortages.

• omicron variant

Exclusive: U.S. to lift travel curbs on eight African countries

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Reporting by David Shepardson in Grand Rapids, Michigan; Editing by Nick Macfie

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Greece rules out air defence systems to Ukraine, prime minister says

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Greece can not offer air defence systems like 'Patriots' or S-300 to Ukraine responding to pressure from EU and NATO allies to send more military aid to Kyiv.

Spain will send a small number of Patriot missiles to Ukraine, El Pais newspaper reported on Friday, quoting unidentified sources.

Travel - Coronavirus COVID-19

Note: health minister, joe phaahla, on wednesday 22 june 2022  repealed the several covid19 regulations relating to the wearing of face masks, gatherings and persons entering the country., health regulations, adjusted alert level 1, adjusted alert level 3, alert level 1, alert level 2, alert level 3, alert level 4, alert level 5, health regulations (in place from 4 may 2022 to 22 jun 2022).

Clarification on valid vaccination certificate

The government will, with effect from 27 May 2022 recognise all verifiable vaccination proofs with QR Codes, either paper based or electronic.

The details on the certificate/card should correspond with the information of the traveller as they appear on the passport. However, in cases where the vaccination certificate or card is not verifiable, the Department officials have got the right to contact the relevant embassy or High Commission in South Africa to confirm a type proof of vaccination issued by respective countries.

Full statement

Regulation of persons entering the country to contain the spread of COVID-19

16C. (1) Subject to the provisions of subregulations (6) to (7), the measures stipulated in subregulations (2) to (5) must be adhered to.

(2) For purposes of this regulation, "vaccinated against COVID-19" means having received at least one dose of a vaccine approved for use in respect of COVID-19 by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority or listed for this purpose by the World Health Organization.

(3) All international travellers arriving at South African Ports of Entry must: (a) be vaccinated against COVID-19 and produce a valid vaccination certificate; or (b) produce a valid certificate of a negative PCR COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organization, which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of departure; or (c) produce a valid certificate of a negative antigen COVID-19 test performed by a medical practitioner, registered public health authority or accredited/approved laboratory which was obtained not more than 48 hours before the date of departure; or (d) produce a valid certificate of a positive PCR COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organization, for a test date less than 90 days prior to the date of arrival and more than 10 days prior to the date of arrival, together with a signed letter from a health care provider, registered in the country of origin, stating that the person has fully recovered from COVID-19, is not experiencing any new symptoms and is fit to travel.

(4) If an international traveller does not comply with subregulation (3): (a) the traveller must undergo antigen testing for COVID-19 at the Port of Entry; and (b) if the traveller tests positive for COVID-19 in the antigen test, the traveller will still be admitted into the Republic but, if the traveller is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, the traveller must self-isolate for ten days after admission into the Republic.

(5). Subregulations (3) and (4) do not apply to: (a) travellers who are under 12 years old; and (b) daily commuters from neighbouring countries.

(6) The measures in this Regulation shall come into operation upon publication of this regulation in the Government Gazette.

(7) The Minister of Health may: (a) determine that the measures in this Regulation, in part or in their entirety, are no longer necessary to contain the spread of COVID-19 and give notice of this determination in the Government Gazette, whereupon the measures concerned will no longer be in operation; and (b) at any time after having made such a determination, determine that the measures concerned are once again necessary to contain the spread of COVID-19 and give notice of this determination in the Government Gazette, whereupon the measures concerned will resume operation.

The 21 land borders which are fully operational will remain as such and the 32 land borders which were closed will remain closed except for the Telle Bridge Port of Entry which will reopen on the commencement of this amendment to the Regulations.

The Cabinet member responsible for Home Affairs may, from the date of commencement of this amendment to the Regulations, issue directions regarding the opening and closing of any further Ports of Entry. 

Note:   Updated information on curfew . (30 Dec 2021)

Daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend or teach at a school in the Republic, and who are allowed entry into and exit from the Republic, are subject to compliance with protocols relating to- (a) screening for COVID -19 and quarantine or isolation, where necessary; (b) the wearing of a face mask; (c) transportation; and (d) sanitisation and social distancing measures as per the relevant health protocols on safety and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

The following is an extraction from Gazette 44124, 29 January 2021 (as amended by Gazette 44208, 1 March 2021 and Gazette 45379 of 22 October 2021)

International and domestic flights

Updated regulations of 22 March 2022 (see https://www.gov.za/covid-19/about/coronavirus-covid-19-alert-level-1 ):

Traveling to and from the Republic from neighbouring countries is allowed: Provided that travellers who are- (a) fully vaccinated must upon arrival at the land border, produce, a valid vaccination certificate; and (b) unvaccinated must upon arrival at the land border, provide a valid certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organisation, which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel.

All international travellers arriving at the Ports of Entry who are- (i) fully vaccinated must upon arrival at the Port of Entry, produce a valid vaccination certificate; and (ii) unvaccinated must upon arrival at the Port of Entry, provide a valid certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organisation, which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel.

(1) International flights to and from the Republic, as well as domestic flights within the Republic, are permitted in terms of regulation 42, read with regulation 43(2)(a), of the Regulations.

(2) International passenger flights to and from the Republic are permitted, subject to the following conditions: (a) A traveler must provide a valid certificate with a negative COVID-19 test outcome, recognised by the World Health Organisation, or equivalent local accredited authority, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel. South African Authorities reserve the right to verify the authenticity of the presented certificate; (b) in the event of the traveller's failure, for whatever reason, to submit a valid negative test certificate in terms of paragraph (a), upon arrival in South Africa, the traveller shall be required to do an antigen test at his or her own costs; (c) in the event of the traveller testing positive for COVID -19, he or she shall be required to isolate him or herself, at his or her own cost, for 10 days; (d) a passenger is required to wear a face mask at all times, may only remove a face mask during an emergency or when instructed by cabin crew to take it off and must observe social distancing; (e) a foreign Operator is required to submit procedures that show the level of compliance with South African COVID-19 legislation for approval to the South African Civil Aviation Authority; (f) foreign Air Ambulance Services are permitted to transport COVID-19 positive patients: Provided that they obtain approval from the Department of Health, obtain a permit issued by the Department of Transport prior to departure, and comply with the Department of Health Protocols and the Air Ambulance Guidelines issued by the Minister; (g) a child under the age of six years may be exempted from wearing a face mask; (h) a passenger who is unable to wear a face mask due to an underlying medical condition, must submit a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner to the Operator prior to departure; (i) flight deck crew are required to wear face masks for the purpose of embarking and disembarking; (j) cabin crew members are required to wear face masks at all times, except when conducting a safety briefing or during an emergency; (k) an "immunity passport", "risk -free certificate" or "passport immunity" in respect of COVID -19 is not acceptable; (l) an Operator shall not board any passenger without a valid negative COVID-19 certificate; (m) crew members shall, upon arrival in South Africa, be subjected to health protocols as contemplated in Health Directions; (n) an Operator must ensure and follow the following risk mitigation measures for crew members: (i) Conduct risk assessments to ensure that crew members are fit and proper before they undertake their travel duties and mitigate the risk of COVID -19 crew infections; and (ii) ensure that crew members are protected whilst on duty; (o) an Operator  (i) is allowed to provide pre-packed catering on-board the aircraft and must take all risk mitigation, health and safety measures to contain the spread of COVID-19; and (ii) may make available self-service complimentary magazines which passengers may pick up as they enter the aircraft, such magazine must not be shared amongst the passengers and if left behind by passengers after each use, must be safely disposed. (p) a passenger in transit- (i) must be in possession of a valid negative COVID-19 certificate, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel, from an accredited laboratory

(3) (a) International scheduled operations and charter flights carrying passengers are allowed at the following airports: (i) OR Tambo International Airport; (ii) King Shaka International Airport;  (iii) Cape Town International Airport; (iv) Lanseria International Airport; and (v) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. (b) Long-haul flight departures and landings at the airports listed in paragraph (a) are permitted during the hours of curfew as provided for in regulation 67(1) of the Regulations. (c) Passengers affected by flights referred to in (b) are required to present evidence of a valid boarding pass or flight ticket when stopped by law enforcement officers during curfew hours.

(4) Charter Operators conducting cargo and passenger operations to and from the Republic are permitted to operate at the following airports with Port Health capacity: (a) Bram Fischer International Airport; (b) Cape Town International Airport; (c) King Shaka International Airport; (d) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (e) Lanseria International Airport; (f) OR Tambo International Airport; (g) Polokwane Airport; (h) Port Elizabeth International Airport; and (i) Upington International Airport.

(5) With regard to international outbound flights - (a) subject to the travel requirements of the country of destination, a passenger must provide the Operator with a valid negative PCR test certificate or a valid negative COVID -19 test certificate from an accredited laboratory, certified by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority ( "SAHPRA ") and South African National Accreditation System ( "SANAS "); (b) an Operator is responsible for ensuring that passengers comply with COVID-19 requirements of the country of destination; and (c) Operators must familiarise themselves with the public health measures, including testing requirements, at the destination airports prior to departure. (6) Domestic passenger flights are permitted at the following domestic airports, as approved: (a) Bram Fischer International Airport; (b) Cape Town International Airport; (c) East London; (d) George Airport; (e) Hoedspruit Airport; (f) Kimberly Airport; (g) King Shaka International Airport; (h) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (i) Lanseria International Airport; (j) Margate Airport; (k) Mthatha Airport; (I) OR Tambo International Airport; (m) Phalaborwa Airport; (n) Pietermaritzburg Airport; (o) Pilanesburg Airport; (p) Plettenberg Bay Airport; (q) Polokwane Airport; (r) Port Elizabeth International Airport; (s) Richards Bay Airport; (t) Sishen Airport; (u) Skukuza Airport; and (v) Upington International Airport.

All commercial seaports will remain open and small crafts will be allowed entry into seaports, in-line with all health and border law enforcement protocols.

Cargo transport

Rail, ocean, air and road transport is permitted for the movement of cargo to and from other countries and within the Republic, subject to national legislation and any directions issued in terms of subregulation (2), for the transportation of goods for export and for import.

The Cabinet member responsible for trade. industry and competition may, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for transport and finance, issue directions that provide for the management, administration and prioritisation of exports or imports, taking into account the need to prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19 and to deal with the destructive and other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Cabinet member responsible for transport may, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, trade, industry and competition, health, justice and correctional services, finance and public enterprises, issue directions relating to health

Public transport

For purposes of this regulation "long distance travel" is a trip of 200 km or more.

The Cabinet member responsible for transport must, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, health, police, trade, industry and competition, and justice and correctional services, issue directions for the resumption of different modes of public transport to cater for the gradual return to work of people, in respect of- (a) domestic air travel; (b) rail, bus services, taxi services; (c) e-hailing services; and (d) private vehicles.

Bus and taxi services - (a) may not carry more than 70% of the licensed capacity for long distance travel; and (b) may carry 100% of the licensed capacity for any trip not regarded as long distance travel in terms of subregulation (1).

A driver, owner or operator of public transport may not allow any member of the public who is not wearing a face mask, to board or be conveyed in a public transport owned or operated by him or her.

The directions to be issued by the Cabinet member responsible for transport must set out the health protocols that must be adhered to and the steps to be followed for the limitation of the exposure of members of the public using public transport to COVID-19.

Adjusted Alert level 3 [updated on 25 July 2021]

The nationwide curfew is extended from 22H00  until  04H00 . Apart from permitted workers and for medical and security emergencies, nobody is allowed outside their place of residence during curfew. 

Partial re-opening of borders

The 20 land borders which are fully operational, will remain as such and the 33 land borders which were closed, will remain closed.

Traveling to and from the Republic is allowed, subject to subregulation (3).

Daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend or teach at a school in the Republic, and who are allowed entry into and exit from the Republic, are subject to compliance with protocols relating to- (a) screening for COVID-19 and quarantine or isolation, where necessary; b) the wearing of a face mask; (c) transportation: and (d) sanitisation and social distancing measures as per the relevant health protocols on safety and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

International air travel is restricted to the following airports - (i) OR Tambo International Airport: (ii) King Shaka International Airport;  (iii) Cape Town International Airport;  (iv) Lanseria International Airport; and (v) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. Long-haul flight departures and landings at the airports listed in paragraph (a) are permitted during the hours of curfew as provided for in regulation 33(1). All international travellers arriving at the airports listed in paragraph (a) must provide a valid certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organisation, which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel. In the event of the traveller's failure to submit a certificate as proof of a negative COVID-19 test, the traveller will be required to do an antigen test on arrival at his or her own cost and in the event of a traveller testing positive for COVID-19, he or she will be required to isolate him or herself at his or her own cost, for a period of 10 days.

All commercial seaports will remain open and small crafts will be allowed entry into seaports, in-line with all health and border law enforcement protocols.

Air travel [ updated 29 January 2021 ]

International flights to and from the Republic, as well as domestic flights within the Republic, are permitted in terms of regulation 42, read with regulation 43(2)(a), of the Regulations.

International passenger flights to and from the Republic are permitted, subject to the following conditions: (a) A traveller must provide a valid negative Polymerase Chain Reaction ( "PCR ") test certificate, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel, from an accredited laboratory and, in line with World Health Organization requirements or equivalent local accreditation authority. South African Authorities reserve the right to verify the authenticity of the presented PCR negative test certificates; (b) in the event of the traveller's failure, for whatever reason, to submit a valid negative test certificate in terms of paragraph (a), upon arrival in South Africa, the traveller shall be required to do an antigen test at his or her own costs; (c) in the event of the traveller testing positive for COVID-19, he or she shall be required to isolate him or herself, at his or her own cost, for 10 days; (d) a passenger is required to wear a face mask at all times, may only remove a face mask during an emergency or when instructed by cabin crew to take it off and must observe social distancing; (e) a foreign Operator is required to submit procedures that show the level of compliance with South African COVID -19 legislation for approval to the South African Civil Aviation Authority; (f) foreign Air Ambulance Services are permitted to transport COVID-19 positive patients: Provided that they obtain approval from the Department of Health, obtain a permit issued by the Department of Transport prior to departure, and comply with the Department of Health Protocols and the Air Ambulance Guidelines issued by the Minister;  (g) a child under the age of six years may be exempted from wearing a face mask; (h) a passenger who is unable to wear a face mask due to an underlying medical condition, must submit a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner to the Operator prior to departure; (i) flight deck crew are required to wear face masks for the purpose of embarking and disembarking; (j) cabin crew members are required to wear face masks at all times, except when conducting a safety briefing or during an emergency; (k) an "immunity passport", "risk-free certificate" or "passport immunity" in respect of COVID -19 is not acceptable; (l) an Operator shall not board any passenger without a valid negative PCR or a valid negative COVID -19 test certificate; (m) crew members shall, upon arrival in South Africa, be subjected to health protocols as contemplated in Health Directions; (n) an Operator must ensure and follow the following risk mitigation measures for crew members: (i) Conduct risk assessments to ensure that crew members are fit and proper before they undertake their travel duties and mitigate the risk of COVID-19 crew infections; and (ii) ensure that crew members are protected whilst on duty; (o) an Operator is allowed to provide catering on -board the aircraft: Provided that it takes all risk mitigation and health and safety measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, which includes the provision of prepacked meals; (p) a passenger in transit - (i) must be in possession of a valid negative PCR test certificate or a valid negative COVID-19 test certificate, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel, from an accredited laboratory; (ii) who displays symptoms of COVID-19 must, upon arrival and under the direction of Port Health - (aa) be taken through primary and secondary screening, including COVID-19 testing, where applicable; (bb) if travelling with family, be quarantined, at own cost, with the whole family; and (cc) if a positive test result is obtained, be isolated, at own cost; and (iii) must follow all Department of Health protocols and guidelines, a child or a person with disabilities may be exempted from COVID-19 testing if testing will prove to be a challenge: Provided that Operators must consult local public health authorities to confirm the requirement prior to departure.

International scheduled operations and charter flights carrying passengers are allowed at the following airports:(i) OR Tambo International Airport: (ii) King Shaka International Airport;  (iii) Cape Town International Airport;  (iv) Lanseria International Airport; and (v) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.

Charter Operators conducting cargo and passenger operations to and from the Republic are permitted to operate at the following airports with Port Health capacity: (a) Bram Fischer International Airport; (b) Cape Town International Airport; (c) King Shaka International Airport; (d) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (e) Lanseria International Airport; (f) OR Tambo International Airport; (g) Polokwane Airport; (h) Port Elizabeth International Airport; and (i) Upington International Airport.

With regard to international outbound flights - (a) subject to the travel requirements of the country of destination, a passenger must provide the Operator with a valid negative PCR test certificate or a valid negative COVID-19 test certificate from an accredited laboratory, certified by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority ( "SAHPRA ") and South African National Accreditation System ( "SANAS "); (b) an Operator is responsible for ensuring that passengers comply with COVID-19 requirements of the country of destination; and (c) Operators must familiarise themselves with the public health measures, including testing requirements, at the destination airports prior to departure.

Domestic passenger flights are permitted at the following domestic airports, as approved: (a) Bram Fischer International Airport; (b) Cape Town International Airport; (c) East London; (d) George Airport; (e) Hoedspruit Airport; (f) Kimberly Airport; (g) King Shaka International Airport; (h) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (i) Lanseria International Airport; (j) Margate Airport; (k) Mthatha Airport; (I) OR Tambo International Airport; (m) Phalaborwa Airport; (n) Pietermaritzburg Airport; (o) Pilanesburg Airport; (p) Plettenberg Bay Airport; (q) Polokwane Airport; (r) Port Elizabeth International Airport; (s) Richards Bay Airport; (t) Sishen Airport; (u) Skukuza Airport; and (v) Upington International Airport.

General aviation [updated 29 January 2021]

General and recreational aviation and aerial work, consistent with the applicable COVID-19 Regulations and Directions, are permitted.

Air cargo [updated 29 January 2021]

The following International Airports, designated as Ports of Entry, have Port Health capability and will be ready to handle air cargo: (a) Bram Fischer International Airport; (b) Cape Town International Airport; (c) King Shaka International Airport; (d) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (e) Lanseria International Airport; (f) OR Tambo International Airport; (g) Pilanesberg Airport; (h) Polokwane Airport; (i) Port Elizabeth International Airport; and (j) Upington International Airport.

The loading and off-loading of air cargo in and out of International Airports, designated as Ports of Entry, are permitted.

Cargo transport [updated 25 July 2021]

Rail, ocean. air and road transport is permitted for the movement of cargo to and from other countries and within the Republic, subject to national legislation and any directions issued in terms of subregulation (2), for the transportation of goods for export and for import.

The Cabinet member responsible for trade, industry and competition may. after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for transport and finance, issue directions that provide for the management, administration and prioritisation of exports or imports, taking into account the need to prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19 and to deal with the destructive and other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Cabinet member responsible for transport may, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, trade, industry and competition, health, justice and correctional services, finance and public enterprises, issue directions relating to health protocols applicable to sea cargo operations and air freight operation.

Public transport [updated 25 July 2021]

The Cabinet member responsible for transport must, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, health, police, trade, industry and competition, and justice and correctional services. issue directions for the resumption of different modes of public transport to cater for the gradual return to work of people, in respect of- (a) domestic air travel; (b) rail, bus services, taxi services; (c) e-hailing services; and (d) private vehicles.

Bus and taxi services - (a) may not carry more than 70 percent of the licensed capacity for long distance travel; and (b) may carry 100 percent of the licensed capacity for any trip not regarded as long distance travel in terms of subregulation (1).

A driver, owner or operator of public transport may not allow any member of the public who is not wearing a face mask, to board or be conveyed in a public transport owned or operated by him or her.

Railway operations [ updated 29 January 2021 ]

Long distance by rail services, including public and private operations, is permitted.

PRASA may continue commuter services between- (a) Cape Town Southern line and Simonstown; (b) East London and Berlin; (c) Pienaarspoort and Pretoria Central; and (d) Port Elizabeth and Uitenhage.

PRASA will continue with the maintenance, servicing and testing of its fleet and further sanitise and disinfect its stations and hubs and, upon completion, must announce the resumption of any other commuter services.

Gautrain may continue commuter services between- (a) Park Station and Hatfield; and (b) Sandton and OR Tambo International Airport.

Cross-border road transport [ updated on 29 January 2021 ]

Cross-border road transport passenger services are not permitted to operate with effect from the date of publication of these directions, except when transporting passengers in line with the provisions of regulation 42(1) and 42(2) of the Regulations.

Cross-border freight transport and logistics in respect of specified cargo, and retail goods to neighbouring countries are permitted.

Sea ports [ updated on 10 February 2021 ]

Commercial seaports and foreign crew changes

All commercial sea ports remain open. 

Foreign crew changes are permitted at all nine commercial ports. (a) Signing-on crew must produce, at the first South African Port of Entry, a valid negative Polymerase Chain Reaction ( "PCR ") test certificate or a valid certificate of negative COVID-19 test results, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel, from an accredited laboratory and in line with World Health Organization requirements. (b) in the event of the crew member's failure, for whatever reason, to submit a valid negative test certificate in terms of paragraph (a), upon arrival in South Africa, the crew member shall be required to do an antigen test at his or her own costs; (c) The failure of a crew member to produce a valid negative PCR test certificate or a valid certificate of negative COVID -19 test results will warrant quarantine, at the crew member's or employer's own cost.

(a) Signing-off crews are not required to produce a valid negative PCR test certificate if the vessel has not had crew changes or has not visited a foreign port within 10 days before arrival at a South African sea port. (b) A crew member's failure to adhere to the requirement contemplated in paragraph (a) or (b), in instances where the vessel has had crew changes or has visited a foreign port within 10 days before arrival at a South African sea port, will warrant quarantine, at the crew member's or employer's own cost.

(a) Foreign crew may layover at a designated quarantine facility for a period not exceeding seven days, at their own cost, but must, immediately after this period has lapsed, proceed directly to the nearest Port of Entry and comply with South African immigration requirements and Port Health protocols. (b) Shore leave is allowed for foreign crew in line with South African immigration requirements and Port Health protocols.

Passenger ships visiting South African sea port

Passenger ships for international leisure purposes are prohibited from disembarking any international passengers at any South African sea port.

Passenger ships are allowed to call at any South African sea port only for the following purposes: (a) Disembarking returning South African citizens and holders of South African permanent residence permits; (b) replenishing fuel, stores and provisions; (c) medical evacuation; and (d) search and rescue.

Small craft to call at designated South African commercial ports

All small crafts are allowed to call at the following designated South African commercial ports: (a) Port of Cape Town; (b) Port of Durban; and (c) Port of Richards Bay.

All small crafts are allowed to call at the designated commercial ports referred to above for purposes of repairs, stores, provisions, refueling and leisure.

South African Sailing must, within 96 hours prior to arrival of a small craft at a designated South African commercial port, submit to the National Department of Transport a request or application for entry by a small craft to South African commercial ports, which request or application must- (a) be forwarded by electronic mail to [email protected] , with a copy forwarded to [email protected] ; and (b) contain the following information: (i) The name of the small craft; (ii) registration number of the small craft; (iii) last Port of Call and date of departure; (iv) South African first Port of Call; (v) South African second Port of Call; (vi) estimated date of arrival; and (vii) the total number of sailors on board, including the nationalities of such sailors.

The National Department of Transport will issue via emails a list of approved requests to all relevant stakeholders, upon receipt.

All sailors must comply with the South African immigration requirements and Port Health protocols.

Transportation of cargo

The transportation of cargo from the sea ports of entry to their final destination is permitted.

The transportation of cargo to the sea ports of entry for export is permitted.

The loading and off-loading of cargo in and out of commercial ports are permitted.

(1) Every person is confined to his or her place of residence from 22H00 until 04H00 daily, except where a person - (a) has been granted permission through directions by the relevant Cabinet member or a permit; or (b) is attending to a security or medical emergency. ( See Alert level 1 general regulations )

Re-opening of borders (As updated from Gazette 43897 of 11 November 2020)

The 18 land borders which were partially operational, will be fully operational, and the 34 land borders which were closed, will remain closed.

Traveling to and from the Republic is allowed, subject to subregulations (3).

All international travel will resume subject to- (a) the traveler providing a valid certificate of a negative test which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel; and (b) in the event of the traveler's failure to submit a certificate as proof of a negative test, the traveler will be required to quarantine him or herself at his or her own costs.

International air travel is restricted to the following airports- (a) OR Tambo International Airport; (b) King Shaka International Airport; and (c) Cape Town International Airport.

Daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend or teach at a school in the Republic, and who are allowed entry into and exit from the Republic, subject to compliance with protocols relating to- (a) screening for COVID-19 and quarantine or isolation, where necessary; (b) the wearing of a face mask; (c) transportation; and (d) sanitisation and social distancing measures as per the relevant health protocols on safety and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

All commercial seaports will be opened.

All small crafts are allowed to call at the following designated South African commercial ports:

(a) Port of Durban; (b) Port of Cape Town; and (c) Port of Richards Bay

(2) All small crafts are allowed to call at the designated commercial ports referred to in subdirection (1) for purposes of repairs, stores, provisions, refueling and leisure.

(3) South African Sailing must, within 96 hours prior to arrival of a small craft at a designated South African commercial port, submit to the National Department of Transport a request or application for entry by a small craft to South African commercial ports, which request or application must-

(a) be forwarded by electronic mail to mscc @dot.gov.za, with a copy forwarded to Nepfumbadam @dot.gov.za; and (b) contain the following information: (i) The name of the small craft; (ii) registration number of the small craft; (iii) last Port of Call and date of departure; (iv) South African first Port of Call; (v) South African second Port of Call; (vi) estimated date of arrival; and (vii) the total number of sailors on board, including the nationalities of such sailors.

(4) The National Department of Transport will issue a list of approved requests to all relevant stakeholders, upon receipt.

(5) All sailors must comply with the South African Immigration requirements and Port Health protocols. ".

Travelling to South Africa

Travellers intending to visit the country will be expected to produce a PCR  (polymerase chain reaction) test that is not older than 72 hours from the time of departure from the country of origin to South Africa. This test must be conducted by a certified medical practitioner and should have the name and signature of the practitioner who conducted such test.

Upon arrival in the port of entry, the traveller will be screened for any COVID-19 symptoms or for contact with people who have been infected with the COVID-19 virus. 

Travellers will also need to provide proof of accommodation address should they need to  self-quarantine at the time of arrival in the country.

Should the traveller display any COVID-19–related symptoms or been in contact with an infected person(s), they will be expected to take a mandatory COVID-19 test.  This test will be at the traveller’s cost.  If the COVID-19 test comes back positive, the traveller will be subjected to a 10 day quarantine at a designated site.  The accommodation at a quarantine site will be at the traveller’s cost.

( Gazette 43954 of 3 December 2020 )

The following category of persons are exempted from provisions of subparagraph (3)(b) but must comply with applicable entry requirements set out by the Department of Home Affairs; (a) Daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend or teach at a school in the Republic; (b) Children below the age of five years; (c) cross border freight operators; (d) Airline crew who upon arrival in the Republic do not disembark and; (e) Medical evacuation crew undertaking medical evacuations subject to having medical surveillance plans stipulating routine screening and testing of crew.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on 11 November 2020 that "we are also opening up international travel to all countries subject to the necessary health protocols and the presentation of a negative Covid-19 certificate".

Any person from a country listed as having a high COVID-19 infection and transmission rate, who wish to undertake a business travel into South Africa, may with effect from 01 October 2020, in writing, apply to the Minister of Home Affairs and demonstrate reasons for their request to enter the Republic for business purposes during the period of the national state of disaster.

Such applications must be directed to email [email protected] (link sends e-mail) and supported by— (a) a copy of passport and/or temporary residence visa; (b) proof of business activities to be undertaken in the Republic;   (c) proof of travel itinerary; and (d) proof of address or accommodation in the Republic.

People who are not allowed from high risk countries are leisure travellers only. List of high risk countries : (as of 19 October 2020 ).

• Bangladesh     
• Italy 
• Netherlands
• Philippines
• United Kingdom

AIR SERVICES

Gazette 43752 of 1 October 2020  as amended by Gazette 43956 of 3 December 2020

International flights and domestic flights

International flights to and from the Republic, as well as domestic flights within the Republic, are permitted in terms of regulation 75, read with regulation 76(2)(a) of the Regulations.

With effect from the date of publication of these Directions [3 December 2020], international passenger flights to and from the Republic shall be permitted, subject to the following conditions:

(a) A traveller must provide a valid negative Polymerase Chain Reaction ( "PCR ") test certificate, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel from an accredited laboratory and in line with World Health Organization requirements or equivalent local accreditation authority, South African Authorities reserve the right to verify the authenticity of the presented PCR or COVID-19 test certificates; (b) in the event of the traveller's failure, for whatever reason, to submit a valid test certificate in terms of paragraph (a), as proof of a negative PCR test or a valid COVID-19 negative test status upon arrival in South Africa, the traveller shall be subjected to a compulsory quarantine or undergo COVID-19 testing in line with the National Health Regiments; (c) a passenger is required to wear a face mask at all times, may only remove a face mask during an emergency or when instructed by cabin crew to take it off and must observe social distancing, hand washing and sanitize regularly; (d) a foreign Operator is required to submit procedures that show the level of compliance with South African COVID-19 legislation for approval to the South African Civil Aviation Authority; (e) foreign Air Ambulance Services are permitted to transport COVID-19 positive patients: Provided that they obtain an approval from the Department of Health, obtain a permit issued by the Department of Transport prior to departure, and comply with the Department of Health Protocols and the Air Ambulance Guidelines issued by the Minister; (f)  child under the age of five years may be exempted from wearing a face mask; (g) a passenger who is unable to wear a face mask due to an underlying medical condition, must submit a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner to the Operator prior to departure; (h) light deck crew are required to wear masks for the purpose of embarking and disembarking; (i) cabin crew members are required to wear masks at all times, except when conducting a safety briefing or during an emergency; (j) an "immunity passport", "risk-free certificate" or "passport immunity" in respect of COVID-19 is not acceptable; (k) an Operator shall not board any passenger without a valid negative PCR or a valid COVID-19 negative test certificate; (l) crew members shall, upon arrival in South Africa, be subjected to health protocols as contemplated in Health Directions; (m) an Operator must ensure and follow the following risk mitigation measures for crew members: (i) Conduct risk assessments to ensure that crew members are fit and proper before they undertake their travel duties and mitigate the risk of COVID-19 crew infections; and (ii) ensure that crew members are protected whilst on duty; (n) an Operator is allowed to provide catering on-board aircraft: Provided that they take all risk mitigation, health and safety measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, including the provision of pre-packed meals; (o) a passenger in transit - (i) must be in possession of a negative PCR test certificate or a valid COVID-19 negative test certificate, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel, from an accredited laboratory; (ii) who displays symptoms of COVID-19 must, upon arrival and under the direction of Port Health- (aa) be taken through primary and secondary screening, including COVID-19 testing, where applicable; (bb) be quarantined, at own cost, if a positive test result is obtained; and (cc) if travelling with family, be quarantined, at own cost, with the whole family; (p) a child or a person with disabilities may be exempted from COVID-19 testing if testing will prove to be a challenge: Provided that Operators must consult local public health authorities to confirm the requirement prior to departure; (q) international scheduled operations and Charter flights carrying passengers are allowed at the following airports: (i) OR Tambo International Airport; (ii) King Shaka International Airport; and (iii) Cape Town International Airport; and (r) Charter Operators conducting cargo and passenger operations to and from the Republic are permitted to operate at the following airports with Ports Health capacity: (i) Bram Fischer International Airport; (ii) Cape Town International Airport; (iii) King Shaka International Airport; (iv) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (v) Lanseria International Airport; (vi) OR Tambo International Airport; (vii) Polokwane Airport; (viii) Port Elizabeth International Airport; and (ix) Upington International Airport.

With regard to international outbound flights- (a) subject to the travel requirements of a country of destination, a passenger must provide the Operator with a valid negative PCR test certificate or a valid COVID-19 negative test certificate from an accredited laboratory certified by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority ( "SAHPRA ") and South African National Accreditation System ( "SANAS "); (b) an Operator is responsible for ensuring that passengers comply with COVID-19 requirements of the country of destination; and (c) Operators must familiarise themselves with the public health measures, including testing requirements, at the destination airport prior to departure.

Domestic passenger flights are permitted at the following domestic airports, as approved: (a) Bram Fischer International Airport; (b) Cape Town International Airport; (c) East London; (d) George Airport; (e) Hoedspruit Airport; (f) Kimberly Airport; (g) King Shaka International Airport; (h) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (i) Lanseria International Airport; (j) Margate Airport; (k) Mthatha Airport; (I) OR Tambo International Airport; (m) Phalaborwa Airport; (n) Pietermaritzburg Airport; (o) Pilanesburg Airport; (p) Plettenberg Bay Airport; (q) Polokwane Airport; (r) Port Elizabeth International Airport; (s) Richards Bay Airport; (t) Sishen Airport; (u) Skukuza Airport; and (v) Upington International Airport.

The loading and off-loading of air cargo in and out of International Airports, Designated as Ports of Entry, is permitted. 

Gazette 43753 of 1 October 2020 , as updated with Gazette 43957 of 3 December 2020

Foreign crew changes and prohibition of cruise ships calling at sea ports

Foreign crew changes are permitted at all nine commercial ports.

Signing-on crew must produce a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction ( "PCR ") test certificate or a valid certificate of COVID -19 negative test results, obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel, from an accredited laboratory and in line with World Health Organization requirements at the first South African Port of Entry.

In the event of a crew member's failure to produce a valid PCR test certificate, this will warrant quarantine, at the crew member's own cost.

Signing -off crews are not required to produce a valid PCR test certificate if the vessel has not had crew changes or has not visited a foreign port within 10 days before arrival at a South African sea port.

A crew member's failure to adhere to the requirement contemplated in paragraph (a), will warrant quarantine, at the crew member's own cost.

Foreign crew may layover at a designated quarantine facility for a period not exceeding seven days, at their own cost, but must, immediately after this period has lapsed, proceed directly to Ports of Entry and comply with South African Immigration requirements and Port Health protocols.

Shore leave is allowed for Foreign Crew in line with South African Immigration requirements and Port Health protocols.

Cruise ships are prohibited from calling at any of the South African sea ports, except for the disembarkation of returning- (a) South African crew; (b) South African citizens; or (c) holders of South African permanent residence permits.

All passenger ships for international leisure purposes are prohibited from disembarking any international passengers at any South African sea port.

Passenger ships are allowed to call at any South African sea port only for the following purposes: (a) Disembarking returning South African citizens and holders of South African permanent residence permits; (b) replenishing fuel, stores and provisions; (c) medical evacuation; and (d) search and rescue.

Registered research foreign vessels and marine safety tugs are allowed to dock at sea ports, subject to mandatory quarantine laws, as may be applicable.

All other cargo vessels must be allowed to dock at sea ports for purposes of cargo works, repairs, replenishing fuel and provisions.

CROSS-BORDER ROAD TRANSPORT

Gazette 43754 of 1 October 2020

Cross-border road transport passenger services are permitted to operate from 1 October 2020.

Cross-border freight transport and logistics in respect of specified cargo and permitted retail goods to neighbouring countries, which include goods imported through the South African Ports of Entry for re- export to neighbouring countries, is permitted.

Provision of improved access to hygiene and disinfection control at cross-border public transport facilities

All owners of cross-border road transport facilities must, at regular intervals, for the duration of the national state of disaster, sanitise their facilities, and provide adequate sanitisers or other hygiene dispensers for washing of hands and disinfection equipment for users of public transport services.

Owners of cross -border road transport facilities must put measures in place to adhere to social distancing to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Embarkation of cross-border road transport vehicles

All cross -border road transport operators must - (a) ensure that cross -border road transport passenger vehicles are sanitised before picking up and after dropping off passengers; (b) ensure that all cross- border road transport vehicles are clean and tidy; (c) ensure that all cross -border road transport vehicles' doors and window handles, arm rests and hand rails are sanitised after every load; (d) encourage cross -border road transport passengers to sanitise after entering the vehicle and after getting off the vehicle; (e) put measures in place to adhere to social distancing to curb the spread of COVID-19; and (f) provide disinfection information materials and procedures.

All drivers of cross-border transport vehicles must wear a cloth face mask or a homemade item that covers the nose and mouth.

Any marshal or security officer who interacts with members of the public in a cross -border road transport facility must wear a cloth face mask or a homemade item that covers the nose and mouth.

The sanitisers used to sanitise all cross- border road transport vehicles must have a minimum of 70% alcohol content.

No person will be allowed to use any form of cross -border road transport or enter a cross -border road transport facility, building, place or premises if they do not wear a cloth face mask or a homemade item that covers the nose and mouth.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Bus and taxi services - (a) may not carry more than 70% of the licensed capacity for long distance travel; and (b) may carry 100% of the licensed capacity for any trip not regarded as long distance travel in terms of subregulation (1). [ See Alert level 1 general regulations  ]

Public transport services, private vehicles and loading capacity of public transport vehicles

All long distance intra-provincial and inter-provincial travel by private vehicles and public transport services are permitted.

For purpose of long distance travel,

(a) minibus, midibus or minibus taxi-type services are permitted to carry not more than 70% of their maximum licensed passenger carrying capacity for long distance intra-provincial travel and inter-provincial travel and are subject to the following limitations: (i) A minibus licensed to carry 10 passengers, is limited to carry a maximum of 7 passengers; (ii) a minibus licensed to carry 15 passengers, is limited to carry the maximum of 10 passengers; and (iii) a midibus licensed to carry 22 passengers, is limited to carry a maximum of 15 passengers; and

(b) bus services are permitted to carry not more than 70% of their licensed passenger carrying capacity for long distance intra-provincial and inter-provincial travel.

For purpose of any trip not regarded as long distance travel -

(a) bus, minibus, midibus, minibus taxi-type services, e-hailing services, meter taxis, shuttle services, chauffer driven vehicles and scholar transport vehicles are permitted to carry 100% of their maximum licensed passenger capacity; and

(b) rail operations are permitted to carry not more than 70% of their licensed passenger capacity.

Private vehicle are permitted to carry their maximum licensed passenger capacity.

Tourist transport services is permitted.

All international flights are prohibited, except those conducted for- (i) the transportation of fuel, cargo and goods; (ii) humanitarian operations; (iii) the evacuation of a South African national or permanent resident to the Republic; (iv) the repatriation of a foreign national to their country of nationality or permanent residence; (v) medical emergencies in respect of a life-threatening condition; (vi) the movement of staff of diplomatic and international organisations; (vii) the return of a South African national or permanent resident to their place of employment, study or residence, outside the Republic; or (viii) other categories, as authorised by the Minister of Transport, but excluding international passenger air travel for leisure purposes.

The following International Airports designated as Ports of Entry have port health capability and are permitted to handle air cargo: (a) Bram Fischer International Airport; (b) Cape Town International Airport; (c) King Shaka International Airport; (d) Kruger Mpumaianga International Airport; (e) Lanseria International Airport; (f) OR Tambo International Airport; (g) Pilanesberg Airport; (h) Polokwane Airport; (i) Port Elizabeth international Airport; and (j) Upington International Airport.  

Domestic passenger flights are permitted.

Domestic passenger flights are permitted at the following domestic airports: (i) Bram Fischer International Airport; (ii) Cape Town International Airport; (iii) East London Airport; (iv) George Airport; (v) Hoedspruit Airport; (vi) Kimberly Airport; (vii) King Shaka International Airport; (viii) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport; (ix) Lanseria International Airport; (x) Margate Airport; (xi) Mthatha Airport; (xii) OR Tambo International Airport; (xiii) Phalaborwa Airport; (xiv) Pietermaritzburg Airport; (xv) Port Elizabeth International Airport; (xvi) Richards Bay Airport; (xvii) Skukuza Airport; and (xviii) Upington International Airport.

General Aviation

(1) Aerial work is permitted. (2) General aviation is permitted. (3) Recreational aviation is permitted.

Maritime transport

Foreign crew changes may only take place at the port of Cape Town and at the port of Durban, under the following conditions: (a) A request for crew changes must be completed by a shipping company or its representative on a form which corresponds substantially with Form A and submitted, at least 96 hours (four days) prior to the crew change, to the Department of Transport; (b) the form referred to in paragraph (a) must be accompanied by a detailed crew list, which also specifies the signing-on crew and signing-off crew. (c) the crew must comply with all the travel requirements and health protocols at ports of entry; (d) crew changes may take place at port and off port limits; (e) signing-on crew may directly transit from the airport to board the vessel: Provided that, if a layover is necessary, the crew must be quarantined as per the Port Health Protocol at the employer's costs and the name of the quarantine facility must be specified in the form referred to in paragraph (a); and (f) signing-on and signing-off crew may only in exceptional circumstances be permitted to layover.

Cruise ships are prohibited from calling at any of the South African ports, except for the disembarkation of returning - (a) South African crew; or (b) South African citizens or holders of permanent residence permits.

South African citizens and holders of permanent residence permits are advised to refrain from making use of international maritime transport or cruise ships.

All passenger vessels are prohibited from- (i) disembarking any passengers at any South African port; (ii) calling at any of the ports, except for the disembarkation of returning South African crew, South African citizens and holders of permanent residence permits. Signing-off crew of a passenger vessel may - (i) disembark from a passenger vessel at the port of Cape Town and at the port of Durban; and (ii) directly transit to the airport

Railway operations

Long-distance rail services (1) All long- distance rail services, both public and private operations, are permitted. (2) Shosholoza Meyl, Premier Classe, Blue Train and private rail operators, such as Rovos Rail, may resume domestic services.

Movement between provinces

Movement of persons between provinces is prohibited, except for-

(a) persons doing so in the course of carrying out work responsibilities or performing any service permitted under Alert Level 3, provided that such person is in possession of a permit issued by the employer; (b) persons travelling for purposes of- (i) moving to a new place of residence; or (ii) caring for an immediate family member: Provided that such person is in possession of an affidavit; (c) members of Parliament performing oversight responsibilities; (d) learners or students who have to commute to and from those schools or institutions of higher learning during periods when those schools or institutions are permitted to operate; (e) the attendance of funerals; (f) the transportation of mortal remains; (g) obtaining medical treatment; (h) persons who are returning to their place of residence from a quarantine or isolation facility; or (i) any movement permitted under regulation 41.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

(1) During the national state of disaster all borders of the Republic must be closed, except for ports of entry designated by the Cabinet member responsible for home affairs, for (a) the transportation of fuel, cargo and goods; and (b) humanitarian operations, repatriations, evacuations, medical emergencies, movement of staff of diplomatic and international organisations and other exceptions as may be determined by the relevant Cabinet member by directions.

(2) The Cabinet member responsible for home affairs, or a person designated by him or her, may allow entry into or exit from the Republic for- (a) emergency medical attention for a life-threatening condition; (b) the evacuation of a South African national or permanent resident to the Republic; (c) the repatriation of a foreign national to his or her country of nationality or permanent residence; (d) the return of a South African national or permanent resident to his or her place of employment, study or residence, outside the Republic; or (e) daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend school in the Republic, and who are allowed entry and exit into and from the Republic, subject to compliance with protocols relating to- (i) screening for COVID-19 and quarantine or isolation, where necessary; (ii) wearing of a cloth face mask or a homemade item that covers the nose and mouth when in a public place, or another appropriate item to cover the nose and mouth; (iii) transportation; and (iv) sanitisation and social distancing measures as per the relevant health protocols on safety and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

(3) (a) A foreign tourist who arrived in the Republic prior to the period of lockdown, which ended on 30 April 2020, and who remained in the Republic- (i) must remain in his or her place of temporary residence until otherwise determined by the Cabinet member responsible for international relations and cooperation; and (ii) may be subject to screening for COVID-19 and be quarantined or isolated, as required. (b) The evacuation of foreign tourists may be allowed where arrangements, including an arrangement for evacuation by air charter, have been made by the relevant embassy: Provided that a tourist who is escorted to the point of exit may be screened again.

MARITIME TRANSPORT

Movement of cargo from our sea-ports to its final destination is allowed.  Similarly, full operations for the port of Mossel Bay and port of Saldanha Bay for movement of Cargo will be permitted. Furthermore, allowance will be made for South African registered seafarers to embark and disembark ships with a mandatory quarantine for those returning. To this extent, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) shall be directed to issue a Marine Notice to this effect.

All international passenger flights are prohibited except those flights authorised by the Minister of Transport.

Limited domestic air travel for business purposes will be allowed, subject to restrictions on the number of flights per day and authorization based on the reason for travel.  The availability of port health services will also guide the scheduling of flights.  The resumption of domestic flights will be rolled out in three phases. 

Guided by these considerations, commercial aircraft movement will be allowed from these airports:

• OR Tambo International Airport
• Cape Town International Airport
• King Shaka International Airport, and
• Lanseria International Airport

Domestic passenger flights are permitted from these airports:

• Bram Fischer International Airport
• East London Airport
• George Airport
• Kimberley Airport
• King Shaka International Airport
• Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport
• Pietermaritzburg Airport
• Port Elizabeth International Airport
• Richardsbay Airport
• Skukuza Airport; and
• Upington International Airport.

All aerial work to conduct the following will be permitted from 01 July 2020:   (a) agricultural spraying, seeding and dusting; (b) cloud spraying, seeding and dusting; (c) culling; (d) construction; (e) aerial harvesting; (f) aerial patrol, observation and survey; (g) aerial advertisement, including banner towing and other towing of objects; (h) search and rescue; (i) parachuting; (j) aerial recording by photographic or electronic means; (k) fire spotting, control and fighting; and (l) spraying, seeding or dusting other than for agricultural purposes and clouds.

General Aviation is permitted for the following purposes: (a) Approved Regional re-positioning flights for all South African and foreign registered aircraft into and from South Africa for return after maintenance and repair, to perform maintenance and repair or to continue with contractual work within South Africa or foreign countries within the region; (b) Exchanging of crew members operating in foreign countries as and when required; and (c) Transporting of aviation technicians, mechanics and engineers internationally for essential support and assistance to aircraft. (d) Proficiency flights provided that the flight is authorised by the South African Civil Aviation Authority and remains within the general flying area, airfield or airport boundaries. (e) Recreational aviation is permitted for proficiency flights provided that the flight is authorised by the South African Civil Aviation Authority and remains within the general flying area, airfield or airport boundaries.

Limited domestic air travel also means that flights will only be allowed to depart and land at selected airports in a phased manner as earlier explained.

Only passengers will be allowed inside the terminal buildings.  Therefore, no accompanying members of the public will be allowed inside the terminal buildings.

Temperature screening will be conducted at the terminal building entrances, before any passenger is allowed entry.

No passengers will be allowed inside the terminal buildings without masks.

At boarding gates, boarding will be staggered and prioritized in terms of the number of passengers to board.  Sectional boarding will be implemented to avoid unnecessary contact inside the aircraft.  

Inside the cabin, full capacity will be allowed.  It must be noted that the risk of COVID-19 infection onboard a commercial passenger airliner is lower than in many other confined spaces.  All our commercial aircrafts are fitted with the High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters.  These are manufactured to the same standard as those used in hospital operating theatres and industrial clean rooms, with the same efficacy of 99.97% in removing viruses.  

While the total air supply inside the cabin is essentially sterile and particle free, the biggest risk is if someone enters or remains in that environment, while unwell with a viral infection.  This risk will be mitigated through the adoption of effective sanitization and personal hygiene protocols.

The following measures will apply inside the cabin of the aircraft:

• no catering will be allowed;
• no magazines on board;
• the last row will be reserved for isolation of suspected cases.

All aircrafts must be disinfected before entering into service and after each flight;

Loading capacity for all airport buses must be limited to 70%.  These buses must be disinfected after off-loading.  Drivers, baggage handlers and ground handlers must be fully equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

On arrival, all passengers must be screened as they enter the terminal building.  Suspected cases must be referred to Port Health.

When we presented Level 4 Directions, we indicated that commuter rail will resume operations gradually on an incremental basis, based on detailed plans submitted by operators.  Indeed, the Gautrain resumed its operations at the beginning of May 2020.  As on 1 June 2020, the Gautrain will resume the airport service.

We have concluded that PRASA is not ready to resume with the Metrorail commuter service. We have therefore revised our timelines in respect of the resumption of the Metrorail commuter service.  The revised target date is now 1 July 2020, on the following lines:

• Pretoria to Pienaarspoort;
• Cape Town to Simonstown;
• East London to Berlin; and
• Port Elizabeth to Uitenhage

Long distance trains remain prohibited.

Every person is confined to his or her place of residence from 21H00 until 04H00 daily, except where a person has been granted a permit, which corresponds with Form 2 of Annexure A, to perform a service permitted under Alert Level 3, or is attending to a security or medical emergency. ( Gazette 43521 of 12 July 2020)

With the increase in the number of people returning to work and learners and students returning to institutions of learning, long distance public transport crossing Provincial, Metropolitan or District boundaries is permitted to operate.  The condition for such operation is that public transport vehicles are only permitted to transport persons permitted to travel between Provinces in terms of the Regulations.  Such travel is only restricted to:

• Persons undertaking work responsibilities or performing a service permitted under Alert Level 3, provided they are in possession of the requisite permit.
• Persons moving to a new place of residence;
• Persons caring for an immediate family member;
• Learners or students who have to commute to and from those schools or institutions of higher learning during periods when those schools or institutions are permitted to operate.
• Attendance of funerals;
• Transportation of mortal remains;
• Obtaining medical treatment;
• Persons returning to their place of residence from a quarantine or isolation facility;
• Movement of children; and
• Members of Parliament performing oversight responsibilities.

Bus and taxi services may operate under the following conditions: (a) May not carry more than 70% of the licensed capacity for long distance intra-provincial and permitted inter-provincial travel; and (b) may carry 100% of the licensed capacity for any trip not regarded as long distance travel.

Capacity restrictions:

• eHailing and Metred Taxis remain at 50% loading capacity
• Shuttle, Chauffer and Charter services remain at 50% loading capacity.

Adjusted alert level 4 is in place from 28 June 2021. Alert level 4 was in place from 1 to 31 May 2020.

Amendments will be published as soon as possible.

Movement of persons (as updated on 27 June 2021)

17. (1) Every person is confined to his or her place of residence from 21H00 until 04H00 daily, unless a person- (a) has been granted permission through directions issued by the relevant Cabinet member or a permit, which corresponds with Form 7 of Annexure A, to perform a service other than a service related to an activity listed under Table 1; (b) is attending to a security or medical emergency; or (c) arrives on a flight or is travelling to or from an airport which necessitates travelling during restricted hours of movement: Provided that the person traveling is in possession of a valid boarding pass as proof of flight or a copy of the airline ticket.

(2) Any person who fails to abide by the curfew referred to in subregulation (1) commits an offence and is, on conviction, liable to a fine or a period of imprisonment not exceeding six months, or to both such fine and imprisonment.

(3) Closing time for the places permitted to remain open is 20H00.

(4)(a) lnterprovincial travel for leisure to and from Gauteng is prohibited. (b) Travel to and from Gauteng is permitted - (i) for persons doing so in the course of carrying out work responsibilities or performing any service permitted under Adjusted Alert Level 4, provided that such person is in possession of a permit issued by the employer which corresponds with Form 7 of Annexure A; (ii) for the attendance of a funeral in or out of Gauteng: Provided that the person wishing to travel to or from Gauteng must obtain a permit which corresponds substantially with Form 4 of Annexure A. from his or her nearest magistrate's office or police station to travel to the funeral and back; (iii) for persons transiting through Gauteng; (iv) for the transportation of mortal remains; and (v) for learners who have to commute to and from school or higher education institutions on a daily basis during periods when those institutions are permitted to operate. (c) Travelling for purposes of- (i) moving to a new place of residence; (ii) caring for an immediate family member: Provided that such person is in possession of an affidavit which corresponds with Form 6 of Annexure A. (iii) oversight responsibilities by members of Parliament; (iv) obtaining medical treatment; and (v) returning to their place of residence from a quarantine or isolation facility, is allowed.

(5) The head of court, or a person designated by him or her, or a station commander of a police station or a person designated by him or her, may issue the permit to travel to a funeral, as contemplated in subregulation 4{b)(ii).

(6) Any person who was not at their place of residence, or work before the lockdown period and who could not travel between other provinces to or from Gauteng with the coming into operation of these regulations, will be permitted, on a once-off basis, to return to their places of residence or work, where after, the prohibition on travel to and from Gauteng will continue to apply.

Partial re-opening of borders (as updated on 27 June 2021)

26. (1) The 20 land borders which are fully operational, will remain as such and the 33 land borders which were closed, will remain closed.

(2) Traveling to and from the Republic is allowed, subject to subregulation (3).

(3) Daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend or teach at a school in the Republic, and who are allowed entry into and exit from the Republic, are subject to compliance with protocols relating to- (a) screening for COVI D-19 and quarantine or isolation, where necessary; (b) the wearing of a face mask; (c) transportation; and (d) sanitisation and social distancing measures as per the relevant health protocols on safety and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

(4) (a) International air travel is restricted to the following airports- (i) OR Tambo International Airport; (ii) King Shaka International Airport; (iii) Cape Town International Airport; (iv) Lanseria International Airport; and (v) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. (b) Long-haul flight departures and landings at the airports listed in paragraph (a) are permitted during the hours of curfew as provided for in regulation 17(1). (c) All international travellers arriving at the airports listed in paragraph (a) must provide a valid certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organisation, which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel. (d) In the event of the traveller's failure to submit a certificate as proof of a negative COVID-19 test, the traveller will be required to do an antigen test on arrival at his or her own cost and in the event of a traveller testing positive for COVID-19, he or she will be required to isolate him or herself at his or her own cost, for a period of 10 days. (5) All commercial seaports will remain open and small crafts will be allowed entry into seaports, in-line with all health and border law enforcement protocols.

Transportation of cargo (as updated on 27 June 2021)

27. (1) Rail, ocean, air and road transport is permitted for the movement of cargo to and from other countries and within the Republic, subject to national legislation and any directions issued in terms of subregulation (2), for the transportation of goods for export and for import.

(2) The Cabinet member responsible for trade, industry and competition may, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for transport and finance, issue directions that provide for the management, administration and prioritisation of exports or imports, taking into account the need to prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19 and to deal with the destructive and other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

(3) The Cabinet member responsible for transport may, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, trade, industry and competition, health, justice and correctional services, finance and public enterprises, issue directions relating to health protocols applicable to sea cargo operations and air freight operation.

Public transport (as updated on 27 June 2021)

28. (1 ) For purposes of this regulation "long distance travel" is a trip of 200 km or more.

(2) The Cabinet member responsible for transport must, after consultation with the Cabinet members responsible for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, health, police, trade, industry and competition, and justice and correctional services, issue directions for the resumption of different modes of public transport to cater for the gradual return to work of people, in respect of- (a) domestic air travel; (b) rail, bus services, taxi services; (c) e-hailing services; and (d) private vehicles.

(3) Bus and taxi services- (a) may not carry more than 70 percent of the licensed capacity for long distance travel; and (b) may carry 100 percent of the licensed capacity for any trip not regarded as long distance travel in terms of subregulation (1).

(4) A driver, owner or operator of public transport may not allow any member of the public who is not wearing a face mask, to board or be conveyed in a public transport owned or operated by him or her.

(5) The directions to be issued by the Cabinet member responsible for transport must set out the health protocols that must be adhered to and the steps to be followed for the lim itation of the exposure of members of the public using public transport to COVID-19.

Sale, dispensing or transportation of liquor (as updated on 27 June 2021)

29. (1) The sale, dispensing and distribution of liquor is prohibited.

(2) The transportation of liquor is prohibited, except where alcohol is required for industries producing hand sanitizers, disinfectants, soap, alcohol for industrial use and household cleaning products.

(3) The transportation of liquor for export purposes is permitted.

(4) No special or events liquor licenses may be considered for approval during the duration of the national state of disaster.

The nation-wide lockdown will be enacted in terms of the Disaster Management Act and will entail the following:

• From midnight on Thursday 26 March until the end of April all South Africans will have to stay at home.
• The categories of people who will be exempted from this lockdown are the following: health workers in the public and private sectors, emergency personnel, those in security services – such as the police, traffic officers, military medical personnel, soldiers – and other persons necessary for our response to the pandemic.

It will also include those involved in the production, distribution and supply of food and basic goods, essential banking services, the maintenance of power, water and telecommunications services, laboratory services, and the provision of medical and hygiene products. A full list of essential personnel will be published.

• Individuals will not be allowed to leave their homes except under strictly controlled circumstances, such as to seek medical care, buy food, medicine and other supplies or collect a social grant.
• Temporary shelters that meet the necessary hygiene standards will be identified for homeless people. Sites are also being identified for quarantine and self-isolation for people who cannot self-isolate at home.
• All shops and businesses will be closed, except for pharmacies, laboratories, banks, essential financial and payment services, including the JSE, supermarkets, petrol stations and health care providers.

Ceasing of passenger and commuter Rail Operations ( Gazette 43159 of 26 March 2020 )

(1) All long- distance rail services, both public and private, must stop operations for the duration of the lockdown. (2) Services of Shosholoza Meyl, Premier Class and Blue Train operated by PRASA and Transnet have been suspended . (3) The private rail operators such as Rovos Rail must cease operation. (4) All commuter rail services must stop operations for the duration of the lockdown including all Metrorail and Gautrain.

rohibition of International and Domestic Flights ( Gazette 43189 of 31 March 2020 )

(1) All international and domestic passenger flights are prohibited irrespective of the risk category of the country of origin except those flights especially authorised by the Minister of Transport for the evacuation of South African Nationals in foreign countries.

Repatriation ( Gazette 43189 of 31 March 2020 )

(2) (a) Repatriation of foreign national from South Africa back to their respective countries is allowed provided the following conditions are adhered to: (i) Foreign Countries must charter their aircraft to South Africa without passengers except with the crew. (ii) The crew is not be allowed to disembark.

Evacuation ( Gazette 43189 of 31 March 2020 )

(3) (a) Evacuation of South African citizens who desires to come back home is allowed provided: (i) He or she has a fully paid return flight ticket; (ii) On arrival they will be subjected to mandatory quarantine for a period of up to 21 days; and (iii) The crew shall be allowed to disembark subject to mandatory quarantine laws as may be applicable.

(4) (a) The following technical flights are allowed: (i) Medical evacuation flights; (ii) Aircraft in a state of emergency; (iii) Overflights; (iv) Technical landings for refuelling ; (v) Aircraft operations related to humanitarian aid, relief flights and other safety related operations. (b) Medical evacuation flights should not carry passengers except, patients and crew that will upon landing shall be subjected to mandatory quarantine laws as may be applicable. (c) Technical landing flights are allowed on condition that no passenger may disembark.

(5) The following Airports should have standby operational staff who will receive aircraft that are in distress. (i) Port Elizabeth; (ii) Bram Fischer; (iii) Upington; (iv) Polokwane; (v) Kruger Mpumalanga.

(6) Disembarkation of Flight Cargo Crew is permitted on condition that it will be subjected Quarantine laws applicable in South Africa.

Air Cargo ( Gazette 43160 of 26 March 2020  as amended by Gazette 43176 of 27 March 2020 )

(1) The following International Airports Designated as Ports of Entry have Port Health capability and are ready to handle air cargo and services: (a) O.R Tambo; (b) King Shaka; (c) Upington; (d) Polokwane; (e) Bram Fischer; (f) Kruger Mpumalanga; (g) Pilanesberg; and (h) Port Elizabeth; and (i) Cape Town.

(2) Lanseria International Airport must not allow the landings and departures of any international flights for the duration of the lockdown. (3) (1) The loading and off -loading of air cargo in and out of International Airports Designated as Ports of Entry is permitted. (2) (a) Air cargo from medium to high risk countries must be sanitised immediately after being off- loaded from the aircraft. (b) Sanitisation of cargo must be applied to air cargo carried by any South African aircraft coming from medium to high risk countries.

Embarkation and disembarkation of foreign nationals at international airports designated as Ports of Entry ( Gazette 43105 of 18 March 2020 )

(1) Crew from high risk countries shall be subjected to medical screening and quarantined up to 21 days. (2) Disembarkation of foreign nationals from high risk countries is suspended on all airports until further notice. (3) Embarkation and disembarkation is permissible under the following circumstances: - (a) disembarkation of a returning South African citizen and permanent residents. (b) embarkation of a departing foreign national. (c) disembarkation of a declared medical emergency of foreign nationals must be approved by the Port Health Services. (4) South African citizens and permanent residents are advised to refrain from all use of air travel until further notice. (5) The loading and off -loading of cargo in and out of airports is permitted.

Charter Operators ( Gazette 43105 of 18 March 2020 )

(1) All Charter Operators for the duration of this regulations, are required to operate in the International Airports that have the Ports Health capability and be subjected to Health assessment. (2) The following International Airports have the necessary capacity and will be ready to handle the Charter flights: a) O R Tambo b) Lanseria c) King Shaka d) Upington e) Polokwane f) Bram Fischer g) Kruger Mpumalanga h) Pilanesberg i) Port Elizabeth; and i) Cape Town

Countries impacted by South Africa's travel restrictions. ( Gazette 43105 of 18 March 2020 )

(1) South Africa has restriction access to foreign nationals and travellers from (High Risk Countries) a) China b) Germany c) Italy d) Iran e) South Korea f) Spain g) United Kingdom h) United States of America i) France (2) South Africa has imposed extra screening measures on people from places such as: (Medium Risk) (3) a) Hong Kong b) Portugal c) Singapore This list is subject to change in line with risk rating of World Health Organization (WHO).

Provision of improved access and hygiene, disinfection control on all public transport facilities. ( Gazette 43157, 26 March 2020 )

All owners of public transport facilities must on regular intervals provide adequate sanitizers or other hygiene dispenser for washing of hands and disinfection equipment for users of public transport services for the duration of the directions.

Embarkation of public transport passengers in the public transport vehicles ( Gazette 43157, 26 March 2020 )

(1) All operators must ensure that public transport vehicles are sanitized before picking up and after dropping off passengers. (2) Operators must ensure that all public transport vehicles door and window handles, arm -rest and hand rails are sanitized before picking up and dropping off passengers. (3) Operators must ensure that all public transport vehicles are clean and tidy. (4) All public transport operators must provide disinfection information materials and procedures. (5) All drivers must wear a mask. (6) Any marshal who interacts with members of the public in public transport facility should wear a mask. (7) The sanitisers used to sanitise all public transport vehicles must have a minimum of 60% alcohol content.

Prohibition of service of certain public transport during lockdown ( Gazette 43157, 26 March 2020 ) (As amended by Gazette 43183, 30 March 2020 and  Gazette 43186, 31 March 2020 ) )

(1) All long distance and inter-provincial services are prohibited for the duration of the lockdown. (2) Transportation of passengers by buses is prohibited except when the bus is used for purposes of fearing passengers rendering essential services. (3) Public Transport permitted to ferry essential services workers will operate from 05h00 to 10h00 and from 16h00 to 20h00. (4) Buses and taxis shall be permitted to operate from 05h00 until 20h00 in order to cater the transportation needs of South Africans most vulnerable which is effective from 30 March 2020 until 03 April 2020

(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of direction (3), public transport is provided with the following grace periods for picking up and dropping off, of passengers: (a) Minibuses and Midibuses Public Transport is permitted to proceed to a pickup point an hour before the operating times, which is from 05h00 to 10h00 without loading passengers; and (b) Minibuses and Midibuses Public Transport is permitted to proceed to drop off points an hour after the drop off time of 10h00 which would be 11h00. (c) Minibuses and Midibuses Public Transport is permitted to proceed to a pick-up point without loading passengers at 15h00 in order to start picking up at 16h00 to 20h00 to finish dropping off passengers at 21h00.

6) (a) During the lock -down period and unless determined by the Minister of Transport, private institutions or companies may make arrangements for the transportation of their workers who are rendering essentials services as listed in Annexure B of Disaster Management Act 2002, Amendment Regulations issues in terms of Section 27 (2) in line with the operating shifts, work time schedules as determined by the responsible head of operations, Manager, Head of the Department or a person with responsible authority within such institution; and (b) The operating shifts or work schedules or time table should be stamped and signed by such person with authority as contemplated in direction 6(6) (a) above."

Prohibition of standing in a public transport vehicle ( Gazette 43157, 26 March 2020 )

(1) No person is allowed to stand in a public transport vehicle.

Loading capacity of road public transport (sedan, minibus, midibus) (As amended by  Gazette 43212 of 7 April 2020 )

(1) A public transport sedan is limited to carrying not more than 50% of its permissible passenger carrying capacity. (2) During the lockdown period, the following public transport vehicles must not carry more than 70% of their maximum licensed passenger seating capacity as follows: (a) A minibus licensed to carry 10 passengers, is limited to carry a maximum of 7 passengers; (b) a minibus licensed to carry 15 passengers, is limited to carry the maximum of 10 passengers; and (c) a midibus licensed to carry a maximum of 22 passengers, is limited to carry a maximum of 15 passengers. (3) All public transport operators must put measures in place to adhere to social distancing to curb the spread of COVID -19.

Buses and Taxis

Effective from 30 March 2020 until Friday, 3 April 2020, buses and taxis will be permitted to operate from 05:00 until 20:00 in order to cater to the transportation needs of society’s most vulnerable.  ( https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-fikile-mbalula-relaxas-hours-public-transport-vehicles-grant-beneficiaries-29-mar )

Cross-Border Road Transport

Prohibition to provide cross -border road transport ( Gazette 43158 of 26 March 2020 )

(1) Despite any permit issued in terms of the Act, no person may provide cross -border Road Passenger transport for the duration of lockdown. (2) Cross -Border freight movement will continue to and from our neighbouring countries.

Prohibition on cruise ships calling at any of the sea ports ( Gazette 43163 of 26 March 2020 )

(1) No crew changes are permitted in all commercial ports until further notice. (2) Cruise ships are prohibited from calling at any of the sea ports except the disembarkation of a returning South African crew and a permanent resident. (3) South African citizens and permanent residents are advised to refrain from use of this form of travel until further notice. (4) The loading and off -loading of cargo in and out of commercial ports is permitted.

Embarkation and disembarkation of persons at a South African sea port ( Gazette 43103 of 18 March 2020 )

(1) No passengers or crew changes are permitted in the designated ports until further notice. (2) Embarkation and disembarkation of passengers are suspended on all sea ports until further notice unless under the following circumstances: - (a) disembarkation of a returning South African citizen and a permanent resident. (b) embarkation of a departing foreign national. (c) emergency medical evacuation shall be managed utilising the existing Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre protocols. (3) South African citizens and permanent residents are advised to refrain from use of this form of travel until further notice. (4). The loading and off-loading of cargo in and out of all sea ports is permitted.

Prohibition of Passenger Vessels visiting South African Sea Ports ( Gazette 43211 of 7 April 2020 ) (1) All passenger vessels are prohibited from disembarking any passengers or crew at any of South African sea ports. (2) Passenger vessels will be allowed to call at any of South African sea ports only for the following purposes: (a) Disembarking South African crew; (b) Disembarking returning South African citizens and holders of permanent resident permit; (c) Replenishing fuel, stores and provisions. (3) The crew shall be allowed to disembark subject to mandatory quarantine laws as may be applicable. (4) All other cargo vessels will be allowed into all the sea ports for purposes of cargo works, replenishing fuel and provisions.

Repatriation of South African Seafarers ( Gazette 43211 of 7 April 2020 )

(5) (a) Repatriation of South African seafarers: (i) South African seafarers returning to South Africa via any of the sea ports will be allowed to disembark; (ii) South African seafarers returning to South Africa via any means other than a ship calling at a sea ports will be subjected to the provisions of the applicable laws that govern the respective mode of transportation they use; and (iii) All returning seafarers will be subjected to a quarantine period of up to 21 days as well as any measures put in place to prevent the spread of the virus.

Evacuation ( Gazette 43211 of 7 April 2020 )

6) (a) Evacuation of seafarers and passengers on board all ships along the South African coastline will be allowed in terms of Search and Rescue as well as the Merchant Shipping Act, 1957 (Act No. 57 of 1957) and subject to the following: (i) The evacuation must comply with the provisions of Medical Evacuations as contained in the South African Maritime and Aeronautical Search and Rescue Act, 2002 (Act No. 44 of 2002) ; (ii) The evacuation to be carried out in terms of the approved Standard Operating Procedures for evacuation as contained in the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center Manual obtainable from the South African Maritime Safety Authority website; and (iii) All evacuated patients will be subjected to mandatory quarantine for a period of up to 21 days.

(7) (a) The following ships are allowed: (í) Cargo working ships; (ii) Passenger vessels allowed only for purposes of disembarking SA crew and returning SA citizens; (iii) Ships calling for refuelling and supplies.

(8) The following sea ports are open for purposes of handling cargo, refuelling and ship supplies: (i) Richards Bay; (ii) Durban; (iii) East London; (iv) Coega; (y) Port Elizabeth; (vi) Mosselbay; (vii) Cape Town; (viii) Saldanha Bay.

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U.S. Lifts Travel Restrictions on Southern African Countries

The restrictions were lifted Dec. 31.

The White House lifted travel restrictions on several southern African countries in time a month after it was first implemented following the emergence of the omicron variant of the coronavirus.

First put in place on Nov. 29 , the ban prohibited the entry of non-U.S. citizens from eight different countries including South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Malawi. At the time, the U.S. had been joined by nations around the world in implementing stricter travel measures against the African countries.

"Having learned more about the omicron variant in the past several weeks, the CDC now recommends lifting the travel restrictions imposed in Proclamation 10315," President Joe Biden wrote in a proclamation last week. "Since I issued that proclamation, our Nation's health officials, in collaboration with the South African scientists who originally reported the variant, have made substantial progress in understanding the omicron variant. Importantly, scientific experts have determined that people who are vaccinated against COVID-19 are protected against severe disease and hospitalization from the omicron variant."

"The travel restrictions imposed by that proclamation are no longer necessary to protect the public health," Biden added.

The omicron variant was first reported to the World Health Organization on Nov. 24 and has since spread to more than 100 countries. Omicron has quickly become the dominant variant in the U.S., accounting for at least 58.6% of all new cases and as much as 88% of cases in some parts of the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

While foreign nationals are allowed to enter the U.S., they are required to be vaccinated . All international travelers, including citizens returning from abroad, are also now required to get tested within one day of boarding a flight .

Travel to several countries around the world is still possible, but the U.S. Department of State has encouraged Americans going abroad to make "contingency plans " in case they are forced to remain in another country longer than they intended.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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New travel restrictions for travelers from south africa; other covid-19 travel restrictions remain in place.

On Monday, January 25, the U.S. government announced new travel restrictions for foreign nationals who have been in South Africa  in the past 14 days.  There are no changes to the other COVID-19 travel restrictions .

The restriction affecting travelers from South Africa will be implemented on  12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on January 30, 2021.  All foreign nationals who have been in the Republic of South Africa in the 14 days preceding their planned arrival will be denied entry after these restrictions take effect.  There are some exceptions ;  for example permanent residents of the U.S are not affected.  

If you plan to arrive in the United States after these restrictions take effect, please consult your airline about what options may be available to you. If your scheduled arrival will be delayed, please contact the International Center at [email protected] . We will work with you and your host department on any necessary updates to your immigration documents.

If you are an active F-1 or J-1 international student or scholar who is currently in the Republic of South Africa, please complete this Travel Registry form .

Details are still emerging and changes may occur. The University of Michigan is actively monitoring the situation. The International Center will post additional information as it becomes available.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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South Africa, the world's second-largest exporter of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, looks to peel back EU citrus restrictions it deems 'not justified, proportionate or appropriate'

South Africa has taken a preliminary step toward filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization against the European Union over its treatment of citrus purchases from the country. The African nation has requested consultations with the EU at the WTO in a bid to resolve the dispute, the nation’s trade and agriculture departments said in a statement Monday. “It is our view that the measures by the EU are not justified, proportionate or appropriate,” Ebrahim Patel, South Africa’s trade minister, said in the statement. Two years ago, the EU...

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Why Traveling Around Africa Is Difficult for Africans

I was scrolling on social media when a post caught my eye. Green Ranger Safaris , a travel company I'd never heard of, was organizing a road trip through seven African countries. This trip would start in Nairobi, Kenya, then head down into Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana. The pricing was reasonable, so I paid a deposit, brushing aside concerns about both spending weeks on end with a group of strangers and the slight chance that the trip might have been an excellently worded scam.

A few months later, in August, I was on a truck with those strangers. It was late in the evening, and we swept through the Kalahari Desert in northern Botswana, the sun in the sky a flaming orb, the only visible life on the sand of the desert being the shrubs, the wild horses, and the herds of elephants. Music swirled from the truck's speakers, a mishmash of popular Kenyan songs from the turn of the century and Nigerian megahits. The countries we were traveling to had been chosen mostly because they were all English-speaking and provided visa-free travel to Kenyans, so the border crossings were simple, with clearances for the trucks, stamps for our passports and, in Botswana, disinfectant for our shoes.

Talk among the passengers was already turning toward doing similar trips in other parts of Africa. One suggested starting in Namibia, sweeping down along the coast into South Africa, moving through the megacities there, then traveling to Lesotho and Eswatini before entering Mozambique. Another pitched a West Africa trip. It all sounded exciting. Everything was possible. But then another passenger brought up Niger, where a coup had just led to the country's closure of its borders. What would happen if a person took a West Africa road trip and then there was a coup? Would the passenger have to stay there and never go home? We laughed at the absurdity. But behind the laughter was real heartache. Because the reality is that any African traveler has thought about the difficulty of traveling as an African.

My mother was a traveler, and when she traveled for work, my brothers and I would travel in Kenya with her. Then, when I was older, the expanse of my travel grew larger: First I traveled around Kenya, then around East Africa. Now I have a desire to explore the continent, to explore versions of myself in other countries in Africa, home to some of the most humbling and impressive landscapes and vistas in the world: to the largest freestanding mountain on earth (Kilimanjaro); to the largest hot desert in the world (Sahara); to thundering waterfalls twice as wide and deep as Niagara (Victoria); to sparkling white-sand beaches; to UNESCO-listed nature reserves; to cities whose histories stretch back through millennia; and to award-winning wine regions. But I find myself marooned before the bank of difficulties other African travelers face.

A few months after my Green Ranger trip, I spoke to Anneli Douglas, an academic at the University of Pretoria in South Africa who has studied travel in Africa. She pointed out how much easier it is for Western visitors to get visas for Africa than it is for African travelers to visit their countries. "Sometimes, travelers have to travel long distances to apply for a visa, or there might not even be representation of the destination country in the home country, making it difficult to obtain a visa at all," she says. "Also, for Western countries, the cost to obtain a visa to Africa is much cheaper than what it is for Africans-considering the value of the local currency."

In places like Kenya, African destinations are rarely marketed to would-be travelers. Instead, there is a surfeit of packages offering holiday trips in destinations like Dubai, Bangkok, and Istanbul, because it is not only easier but also often cheaper to organize trips to these places than it is to organize trips within the continent. Even when visas are relatively easily attainable, travel from one African country to another is rife with difficulties. Sam Maundu, a Nairobi-based tour operator who runs Rosolo Safaris , which organizes trips around Africa, had no shortage of factors ready when I asked what these difficulties are: "Language barriers, visa restrictions, expensive flights, African destinations not targeting Africans to visit, long distances to be covered either by road or by flight since there are often no direct flights, security situations in some places, perception that there is nothing to see in other African countries, harassment by border officials."

One of the lingering effects of colonialism on the continent is that interaction between African countries tends to exist along mostly colonial lines: There are the former Portuguese colonies, the former British colonies, the former French colonies. Passport holders from Kenya, which was colonized by Britain, are mostly able to go to former British colonies visa-free or with visa-on-arrival status. This means that for a person planning a trip, it becomes easier to think of traveling to these countries. On our multiple-country road trip, the travelers were mostly holders of Kenyan and Ugandan passports (Uganda, another former British colony), and so the countries that the trucks went to were all-except for Namibia-former vestiges of the British Empire. This shared history meant also that because all these countries have English as an official language, it would be relatively easy for us travelers to communicate with people there.

Samuel Agblorti is a lecturer at the Centre for Mixed Migration and Diaspora Studies of the University of Cape Coast in Ghana. I ask him about about a hypothetical trip from Cameroon to Senegal, across a region where multiple coups have happened in recent years. Safety concerns rising from these events had further entrenched visa restrictions across Africa. "Because our borders aren't very well protected, there is a fear that allowing too many visitors will make it unsafe," Agblorti tells me. But even getting those visitors has been a problem.

In 2016, the African Union announced plans for an AU passport to be rolled out by 2020. This passport would open travel across the continent, as more African citizens wouldn't need visas to travel to other African countries. However, more than seven years later, the passport hasn't been launched, stymied by a mixture of security concerns and protectionist attitudes among African states. (The AU remains silent on when and if the passport will be launched.) Still, Agblorti says such a passport would not necessarily be the panacea that its supporters think it would be as it wouldn't automatically lead to visa-free travel without individual states implementing it. He gave the example of regional blocs such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), whose membership comprises 15 West African states whose citizens hold ECOWAS passports. "Even within ECOWAS, there are protocols that member countries are supposed to adhere to, but some of them don't," he says. "You may have a common passport, but if the countries don't make extra commitments, then it doesn't matter."

Thus far, only a handful of African countries have committed to allowing African visitors to visit without a visa: Gambia, Benin, and Seychelles; Rwanda has announced plans to implement this. On a small scale, then, African visitors to these countries will experience the promise of the AU passport-if it does indeed come to fruition.

Most recently, in December 2023, rather than introduce the visa-free status its president had promised , Kenya announced that it would require an electronic travel authorization (ETA) , to increase revenue from visitors seeking to enter Kenya. Visa-free entry was scrapped for all but five other East African countries, and new travel requirements and fees were introduced for countries whose citizens had previously enjoyed visa-free travel into Kenya. To some, the doors of entry-rather than being flung open-were being closed even tighter.

Another issue is how expensive it is to travel in Africa. According to a 2013 World Bank report , airfare within Africa is roughly 50 percent more expensive than airfare in comparable locations worldwide. Flights from one African country to the other tend to be much more expensive than flights from Africa to Europe and Asia, despite logic that the shorter the distance, the cheaper the flight ought to be. This means, in effect, that a traveler from Kampala, Uganda, would find it more affordable, and therefore more attractive, to fly to Dubai than to Maputo, Mozambique, despite the latter being much closer than the UAE.

Tour operator Maundu told me that this makes it difficult for him to suggest to his clients travel packages that involve other African destinations: Often, it means the cost of the round-trip air tickets more than doubles the cost of the entire travel package. And there aren't always reliable road or rail options that offer alternative transport to travelers. Most leisure travelers can't move directly by rail from Kenya to South Africa (there is a luxury train network between Tanzania and South Africa that costs $19,000), while in most other regions of the continent, not only are there no multicountry rail options, but also existing bus networks rely on terrible roads.

The irregularity or non-availability of intra-regional air connections and of internal air transport also constrains access to internal destinations and prevents progress with multicountry tourism packages, Maundu says. Also, tax rates per passenger in Africa are more expensive than they are on other continents: The total tax per passenger is about $64, compared to $30.23 in Europe and $29.65 in the Middle East. This is exacerbated by the lack of a single unified aviation market, whose absence means that fares and tax rates swing with volatility across different parts of the continent.

Rather than negotiate with one central body, airlines operating in Africa deal with individual countries, which each usually have different rates and requirements for entry. In Europe, for instance, the establishment of the European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) in 2006 decreased airfares across Europe by making possible the rise of a fleet of low-cost airlines, and at the same time increased the volume of flights within European airports. In this vein, there have been attempts to establish a single aviation market in Africa. The most recent of these attempts is the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). Announced in 2018 , the SAATM so far has signed on 34 countries. However, like the AU passport before it, the SAATM has not been implemented, and so it remains nothing but an idea.

In the meantime, African travelers continue to dream. Travel plans continue to be made. Potential destinations continue to be talked about. At the end of our seven-country road trip, as we headed back to Kenya, we spoke again about organizing future trips together, our group of strangers now bonded as friends. Some people discussed taking a trip to Uganda over the next month. Others talked about heading across the Indian Ocean to Mauritius. In Lusaka, Zambia, where the first batch of travelers would leave us to fly back to Nairobi, weepy goodbyes were made. "We are family," one of them said.

Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List issue. Never miss an issue when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler.

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Refugee who left UK for holiday in 2008 stranded in east Africa for 16 years

Saleh Ahmed Handule Ali, now 33, had indefinite leave to remain in UK, but Home Office failed to keep a record

A refugee who left the UK on holiday as a teenager in 2008 has been stranded in east Africa for the last 16 years in a case that senior judges have described as “extraordinary”.

Saleh Ahmed Handule Ali, now 33, arrived in the UK at the age of nine in April 2000 with his mother and two younger siblings from Somalia. They came to join Ali’s father, who had been granted refugee status by the UK government. The family were also recognised as refugees by the Home Office and Ali was given a travel document in 2004 under the refugee convention, which was valid for 10 years.

In 2008 Ali was diagnosed with tuberculosis and in December of that year decided to travel to Djibouti for a short holiday in the hope that the warmer climate would aid his recovery.

At some point after arriving in Djibouti, he lost his refugee travel document and could not get back home to his family, who live in Bristol. As there is no British embassy in Djibouti, he managed to get to neighbouring Ethiopia , and when he finally reached Addis Ababa, he tried at least twice to get assistance from the embassy, without success.

It later emerged that the Home Office had failed to keep a record on its database of the fact that it had granted him indefinite leave to remain in the UK as a refugee. According to a ruling in the court of appeal last week, he has been “stranded in Ethiopia, undocumented, ever since”.

His mother, who suffers from several health conditions, saved up money for several years to engage a solicitor to try to bring her son back home.

In June 2015, a Home Office entry clearance officer refused Ali permission to return to the UK. The family appealed the first tier and in the upper tribunal of the immigration court, but their appeals were rejected.

Ali is undocumented in Ethiopia and is living a hand-to-mouth, destitute existence, unable to work. He survives on the money his mother sends him.

“I have been crying for 16 years over the loss of my son,” his mother, Shamis Dirya, told the Guardian. “We want the Home Office to bring him back to us. But they are not listening to us. When we speak on the phone, I cry and he cries. He has not had a phone for the last three months, so it has been difficult to speak to him. Sometimes we don’t even know whether he’s alive. He went to primary school here, he went to high school here. He only went to Djibouti for a short holiday.”

In the court of appeal, the lead judge, Lady Justice Andrews, said in the ruling by three judges: “This is by any standards and in many different respects a most extraordinary case.”

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The judgment, which granted Ali’s appeal against the refusal of his case and remitted it to the upper tribunal, was critical of the judge in the first-tier tribunal, Adam Rhys-Davies, and said that a clear error of law had been made when he rejected Ali’s case.

Referring to information coming to light in 2017 that the Home Office had no information on its system recording that Ali had been granted indefinite leave to remain in the UK, the judgment said: “Quite how this could have happened … is difficult to comprehend.”

Khalid Khashy of Pristine Law, who represents Ali, said: “Our client understandably has suffered immensely, including from mental health and destitution, whilst living in African countries of Djbouti and Ethiopia in the hope of returning to his home and family in the UK.

“Unfortunately, his ordeal is not over, as the matter is sent back to the upper tribunal for a fresh decision, which could take months. To avoid costs and delays, it is hoped that the Home Office will concede and grant him entry clearance with a sincere apology.”

A Home Office spokesperson said: “It is a matter of longstanding government policy that we do not routinely comment on individual cases.”

• Immigration and asylum
• Home Office

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