South Africa: Authorities extend nightly curfew amid efforts to combat COVID-19 and its variants /update 7

Event

Authorities in South Africa have extended the nightly 23:00-04:00 curfew amid ongoing efforts to combat COVID-19 and its variants. The level two lockdown measures will begin May 31; all nonessential businesses, including restaurants, cafes, and gyms, are required to close by 22:00 daily. Authorities have also limited public gatherings to 100 people indoors and 250 outdoors.

Authorities previously announced the extension of the State of Natural Disaster through at least June 15.

Domestic Restrictions:

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

• Restrictions on indoor and outdoor gatherings are in place.

• The wearing of protective facemasks remains mandatory 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

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
High-risk countries