South Africa: Government tightens COVID-19 restrictions nationwide effective June 15 due to rising disease activity /update 9

Event

The government of South Africa has tightened the nation's domestic COVID-19-related restrictions due to a significant increase in infections. Effective 23:59 June 15, authorities moved the country from Level 2 to Level 3 on its five-tier virus transmission risk scale and extended the existing nationwide curfew by one hour to run 22:00-04:00 nightly; curfew hours had previously been 23:00-04:00.

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

• The use of protective facemasks is mandatory; individuals who do not comply with the regulation could face criminal penalties.

• Non-essential establishments, including shops, restaurants, bars, and all cultural venues, must close at 21:00.

• Alcohol sales from retail outlets are restricted to 10:00-18:00 Monday-Thursday, except on public holidays. On-site consumption is allowed at licensed establishments until 21:00. Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in all public spaces, such as beaches and parks.

• All gatherings are limited to a maximum of 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors, or no more than 50 percent of the venue capacity in locations too small to accommodate social distancing.

• Attendance at funerals and cremations may not exceed 50 people and all social distancing and health protocols must be observed. Night vigils, post-funeral gatherings, and similar events are prohibited.

It remains unclear how long the tighter measures may remain in force.

International Travel Restrictions
Despite the tighter domestic measures, South Africa's restrictions on international travel remain largely unchanged. 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 variants of COVID-19 present in the country. Twenty land border crossings with neighboring states are open; a further 33 remain closed.

Persons entering South Africa are required to provide a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in the country; those failing to do so will be tested on arrival. Individuals testing positive will be 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.

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

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