Travel and transport under lockdown

Travelling in level 1: What you need to know

Last updated: 7 February 2022

Travel and flight restrictions have begun to ease for South Africans as governments across the world begin to adjust to the Covid-19 pandemic moving into an endemic phase. Many governments are now allowing travel from South Africa, some with more restrictions than others. Travel into South Africa is allowed, with some provisos in place. 

Read South Africa’s current news on the status of the pandemic.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL IS (MOSTLY) EASED

According to BusinessTech, many countries have eased travel bans on South Africans, however there are still over 80 countries with substantial restrictions in place. For most countries, provided travellers are vaccinated, then an additional negative PCR test result is sufficient to enter the country. Others have additional requirements, for example UAE has lifted its entry and transit ban, providing the PCR requirements are fulfilled, and in addition passengers will be tested on arrival. For the unvaccinated, most countries require some quarantine period. To find out what other countries' requirements are, this tool can give you more information.

INTERNAL TRAVEL IS UNRESTRICTED

Travel between provinces is now open and movement is freely allowed. In line with the new relaxed restrictions under lockdown level 1, internal flights and other modes of public transport are operating, although at reduced numbers and wearing a mask is compulsory – except for children under six, according to Travelbans.com. 

FOREIGNERS MAY ENTER UNDER THESE RULES 

Travel for non-South Africans into the country is allowed, although strict health protocols are in place. You will have to produce a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on arrival; the test must have been taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure. In addition, this test must be carried at all times to produce when necessary.

If not presented on arrival, travellers must take a test at their own expense, and also may be required to quarantine. Business travellers not using air travel and providing services across SADC countries and South Africa are allowed multiple entries, provided the test still falls within 72 hours of departure. Up-to-date information can be found here.

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MORE NEWS ON CORONAVIRUS AND LOCKDOWN

Get more local and national coronavirus updates

For curfew changes and other restrictions, here are more lockdown updates

Speaking about travel, have you visited the small town gems around the Western Cape?

Travelling may be difficult right now, so have a staycation with a day trip around Cape Town. 

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