Care Line Group

Foreign travel adviceSouth Africa

Summary
Still current at: 12 August 2015
Updated: 7 August 2015

Latest update: Summary and Entry requirements section - updated details
on requirements for travelling with children

South Africa has introduced new immigration rules. From 1 June 2015,
parents travelling with children (under 18) will be asked to show the child’s
full unabridged birth certificate. The full unabridged birth certificate should
list the child’s details and both parents’ details. The abridged (short) birth
certificate which only lists the child’s particulars won’t be accepted. The
South African Department of Home Affairs are not accepting uncertified
copies of birth certificates or copies of the parents/guardians identification.

A parental contact affidavit (PCA) must have a certified copy of the parent’s/
guardian’s identification (ie passport) attached to it.

From 26 May 2014, if you live in South Africa, you must have a valid
esidence permit in your passport when you enter and leave the country.
Instead of fining those whose permits have expired, you may be blacklisted
and prevented from applying for a visa to re-enter South Africa for a period
from 12 months to 5 years. See Entry requirements

There has been an increase in strike action in South Africa and some
demonstrations have turned violent. Follow developments in the local
media and avoid all demonstrations, rallies and large public gatherings.

There is a very high level of crime, but the most violent crimes occur in
townships and isolated areas away from the normal tourist destinations.
See Safety and Security

There have been incidents involving foreigners being followed from OR
Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to their destinations by car
and then robbed, often at gunpoint. Be vigilant in and around the airport
and when driving away.

The standard of driving is variable and there are many fatal accidents.
See Road travel

Most visits to South Africa are trouble-free.

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. See Terrorism

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for
British companies operating overseas on how to manage political,
economic, and business security-related risks.

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.

Make sure you have at least 2 blank pages in your passport on arrival.