South Africa: Government eases COVID-19 measures from July 26 /update 12

Event

Officials will ease COVID-19 measures from July 26. The country's response level has changed from adjusted Level 4 to adjusted Level 3. A nationwide nightly curfew has been reduced by one hour and will run from 22:00-04:00. Persons are restricted to their residence during this period, with some exceptions. Restrictions on travel between provinces for leisure purposes have been lifted. Some restrictions on the sale of alcohol have been lifted.

Additionally, the following restrictions are in force under Level 3:

• Most nonessential establishments must close by 21:00.

• Facemasks are mandatory in all public places, except for persons under the age of six.

• Social, religious, and political gatherings are limited to 50 persons indoors and 100 persons outdoors.

• Night clubs are closed.

• Schools may reopen.

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

Authorities could further tighten or ease restrictions within individual jurisdictions based on disease activity. Further amendments to updated restrictions are possible in the coming days.

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. However, several nations have placed restrictions on flights to and from South Africa due to concerns over COVID-19 variants present in the country. International land border travel is limited, with only some border crossings open with neighboring states. Persons entering South Africa must provide a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before departure for the country; those failing to do so will be tested on arrival. Individuals testing positive are subject to quarantine. Maritime travel is permitted on small passenger craft; however, the government continues to ban all cruise ships from docking. Cargo transport is operating normally.

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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for delays at available shopping centers.

Resources

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