New visa requirements for high-risk countries
Six high-risk countries – which, to date have enjoyed visa-free entry into South Africa – will now be required to apply for visas.
They are Italy, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom. The decision has been made to control movement in and out of South Africa as an active measure to contain the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Sunday 15 March 2020 that a travel ban would be imposed on a total of eight high-risk countries. Chinese and Iranian nationals would have their existing visas revoked, with no further applications processed.
South African travel bans and restrictions from 18 March 2020
The latest travel bans and restrictions instituted include:
- Travel bans effective 18 March 2020 from high-risk countries such as Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, United States, UK and China. Travellers from high-risk countries will not be permitted entry into South Africa.
- South Africans are to refrain from travel to/through high-risk countries effective immediately such as the European Union, China, Iran, South Korea, UK and USA.
- Travellers from medium-risk countries such as Portugal, Singapore and Hong Kong, need to present themselves for testing. Travellers from medium-risk countries would also need to provide a medical certificate to show that they have tested negatively for COVID-19.
- Anyone who has travelled to these countries from mid-February, need to present themselves for testing.
- Self-isolation for South Africans who have come from high-risk destinations.
- Intensified screening at all ports of entry.
- All non-essential domestic travel is discouraged.
- Gatherings of more than 100 people prohibited.
Indonesia
Indonesia has confirmed more COVID-19 cases. The risk of transmission is increasing across the Indonesian archipelago, including in Bali. From 20 March 2020, Indonesia will suspend visas on arrival for all visitors.
