South Africa: Authorities have relaxed certain COVID-19-related restrictions effective March 23 /update 23

Event

Authorities in South Africa have relaxed certain COVID-19-related restrictions effective March 23. Facemasks are mandatory in all indoor public places, except for persons under the age of six. Masks are not required when outdoors. Gatherings at venues where proof of vaccination or a recent COVID-19 test is not required have a limit of 1,000 indoors, 2,000 outdoors, and cannot exceed 50 percent of the venue capacity. Vaccinated travelers are no longer obliged to present a pre-departure PCR test at the port of entry. Unvaccinated travelers must still present a negative PCR test result taken less than 72 hours before departure.

The country's response level remains at adjusted Level 1.

Domestic Measures
Aside from the changes listed above, the following restrictions remain in force under adjusted Level 1:

• Vaccination certificates or a negative COVID-19 test of less than 72 hours are required to attend religious, social, political, and cultural gatherings, as well as to enter bars and restaurants. The capacity remains at 50 percent.

• Social distancing measures remain in place at schools and education centers.

• Hotels may operate at full capacity.

• For further information on these and other restrictions, please click here.

Violators are subject to fines and/or may face up to six-month imprisonment.

International Travel Restrictions
OR Tambo (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), King Shaka (DUR), Kruger Mpumalanga (MQP), and Lanseria International (HLA) airports are open for international flights. International land border travel is limited, with only some border crossings open with neighboring states.

Vaccinated travelers entering South Africa must present a valid vaccination certificate. Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers must provide a paper copy of a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 72 hours before departure for the country; those failing to do so will be tested on arrival at their own expense. Individuals who test positive are subject to quarantine. Maritime travel is permitted on small passenger craft. Cargo transport is operating normally.

Authorities could further tighten or ease restrictions within individual jurisdictions based on disease activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements, including required in-country quarantine requirements, before travel. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

South Africa Health Department
COVID-19 Online Resource
Government of South Africa