South Africa: Government eases COVID-19-related domestic measures effective Oct. 1 /update 15

Event

Officials have relaxed COVID-19-related domestic measures effective Oct. 1. The country's response level is now at adjusted Level 1. A nationwide 00:00-04:00 curfew is now in effect. Individuals are restricted to their residence during this period with limited exceptions such as medical appointments, scheduled flights, or under granted permission.

Additionally, the following restrictions are in force under Level 1:

• Most nonessential establishments must close by 23:00. Night clubs remain closed.

• Restaurants and bars are subject to a limit of 750 patrons indoors and 2000 patrons outdoors.

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

• Social, religious, and political gatherings are limited to 750 persons indoors and 2000 persons outdoors.

• 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. 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.

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. 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