South Africa puts 17 countries on its ‘banned leisure travel list'

Level 1 regulations now allow international journeys from Thursday 1 October, but there are exemptions in place for a number of countries with high transmission rates of coronavirus.

International leisure travel laws – where can South Africans go?

It’s been on the cards for a while, but the reopening of South Africa’s borders promises to be a very delicate operation. Indeed, measures announced earlier this month show the country will walk before it can run. Although the message to international visitors is a clear ‘welcome back’, there are some tourists who cannot access SA if their country of residence is on the travel list.

The borders were initially closed at the end of March, over half a year ago. South Africa has had a tumultuous journey through the lockdown levels, but things really kicked up a gear in August. Level 2 restrictions were introduced, opening up the economy in spectacular fashion. After a month of stable infection rates, Mzansi went for the final frontier.

‘Banned leisure travel list’ for Level 1

Although there are still requirements for social distancing, mask-wearing, and crowd controls in place at Level 1, it is still the most relaxed version of lockdown available for South Africa. The travel list itself will be ‘reviewed regularly’.

Border controls will also remain airtight for the foreseeable future, with all persons passing through Mzansi required to prove they are COVID-negative. Temperature checks will also be made mandatory for all travellers.

International restrictions: Countries on South Africa’s ‘banned leisure travel list’

South Africa has split all countries into three categories: High-risk, Medium-risk, and Low-risk. People from any High-risk countries will not be able to travel to South Africa for leisure purposes. Business workers, investors, and high-skilled professionals (including diplomats) from these nations are permitted, however.

The countries we cannot open our doors to – nor can we allow our citizens to visit – include the following: