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14 May 2021 | 02:04 PM UTC

South Africa: Authorities extend COVID-19-related State of Natural Disaster through June 15 /update 6

Officials in South Africa extend State of Natural Disaster through to June 15. Level 1 COVID-19 restrictions remain in place.

Critical

Event

Authorities have announced the extension of the State of Natural Disaster through at least June 15. Officials have reported an increased number of COVID-19 cases in mid-May; however, related restrictions remain unchanged. As of May 14, level 1 restrictions (the lowest on a five-level scale) remain in place.

Domestic Restrictions:

  • A daily 00:00-04:00 curfew is in effect.

  • Most businesses are permitted to operate. Nightclubs are closed.

  • Restrictions on indoor and outdoor gatherings are in place.

  • The wearing of protective facemasks remains compulsory in all public spaces and on public transportation. Children under the age of six are exempt from the rule.

  • For a full summary of domestic regulations under level 1, please click here.

International Travel Restrictions:

  • OR Tambo (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), King Shaka (DUR), Kruger Mpumalanga (MQP), and Lanseria International (HLA) airports are open. Note that several countries have placed restrictions on flights to and from South Africa.

  • Twenty land border crossings with neighboring states are open; a further 33 remain closed.

  • People entering South Africa will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours before arrival in the country. Persons without a test will be tested on arrival. Persons testing positive will be subject to a 10-day isolation period.

  • Small passenger craft maritime travel is permitted; however, the government continues to ban all cruise ships from docking.

  • Cargo transport is ongoing.

  • For further information regarding international travel regulations under level 1, please click here.

Authorities have reiterated that the disease activity will determine the increase or decrease of restrictive measures in individual districts, metros, and provinces identified as COVID-19 hotspots. Further amendments to updated restrictions are possible in the coming days. The resumption of economic activities in other sectors is subject to stringent health and safety measures.

Advice

Heed all official directives. Monitor local media and government channels closely for further updates. Consider delaying travel to or from South Africa if displaying COVID-19 symptoms.

Resources

South Africa Health Department
COVID-19 Online Resource
Government of South Africa
High-risk countries