South Africa: Government extends most nationwide COVID-19 restrictions through at least July 25 amid high disease activity /update 11

Event

The South African government has extended nearly all of the nation's domestic COVID-19-related restrictions through at least July 25 amid prevailing high levels of disease activity. While the country remains at Level 4, the second-highest level on its five-tier virus transmission risk scale, authorities have marginally relaxed some restrictions from late July 11. The measures allow restaurants and eateries to offer in-person dining up to a maximum of 50 patrons, or up to 50 percent capacity for smaller venues. Gyms can also reopen with social distancing measures in place. A nationwide 21:00-04:00 curfew remains in effect; only permitted workers are allowed to travel during curfew hours.

Additionally, the following restrictions are in force under Level 4 through at least July 25:

• Facemasks are mandatory in all public places.

• Travel in and out of Gauteng Province for leisure is prohibited.

• All social, religious, political, and other gatherings are prohibited except for funerals, which officials limit to 50 people.

• Alcohol sales are banned.

• All nonessential establishments must close by 20:00.

• Individuals should only meet with members of their own households outside of work.

• Schools remain closed.

• Public parks and beaches remain open, though social gatherings are banned at these locations.

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. Twenty land border crossings with neighboring states are open; some 33 others remain closed.

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 a 10-day isolation period.

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