South Africa Travel Guide

This mini South Africa Travel guide tries to set up the basics for travel to South Africa. Follow the links in the travel guide for more detailed information

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: South Africa has tightened its visa requirements. Only visitors for tourism, short business meetings, or in-transit do not require visas. All others, including academics, students on educational trips, and volunteers may need visas, or otherwise take the chance that they will be refused admission and returned to their point of origin. It is strongly suggested that travelers check the requirements with the nearest embassy or consulate of South Africa before traveling. Visitors who intend to work in South Africa must apply for work permits abroad at the appropriate South African embassy or consulate. Travelers entering South Africa from countries where yellow fever is endemic are often required to present their yellow World Health Organization (WHO) vaccination record or other proof of inoculation, or they must be inoculated at the airport in order to be permitted entry. Travelers may obtain further information from the Embassy of South Africa, 3051 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 232-4400, web site at http://usaembassy.southafrica.net , or, the South African consulates in Los Angeles, Chicago, or New York. Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest South African embassy or consulate.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments, including South Africa's, have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.