For the majority of foreign nationals who travel to South Africa for vacation,
entry is straightforward and hassle-free. All visitors to South Africa must be
in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some
cases, a visa. Travellers from certain regions of the world (Scandinavia, Japan,
the USA, and most Western European and Commonwealth countries) do not need to
formally apply for a visa. Upon arrival in South Africa, countries falling into
this category will automatically be given a free entry permit sticker that
outlines how long they may remain in the country. This automatic entry permit is
usually for a maximum of 90 days, though the immigration officer may tailor the
time period according to the airline tickets held.
Foreign nationals from some other countries are offered this service, but for
a maximum of 30 days. If visitors want to stay for a longer period, they will
have to apply formally for a visa, as opposed to relying on the automatic entry
permit. For the majority of foreign nationals who travel to South Africa for
vacation, entry is straightforward and hassle-free.
All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport in
order to enter the country, and in some cases, a visa. However, it is important
to note that under South Africa's Immigration Act of 2002 (Act. 13 of 2002) in
force since 7 April 2003, (a) Immigration Act, 2002 the passport shall contain
at least ONE unused page when presenting the passport for endorsements.
This requirement, reflects the requirements of many of the world's top travel
destinations, in line with the majority of global destinations' requirements and
failure to have a clear page can result in entry being refused.
To determine whether you require a visa to enter South Africa, visit the
comprehensive South African Home Affairs Department website at:
http://home-affairs.pwv.gov.za/.
For South African missions abroad, visit
http://www.dfa.gov.za/foreign/sa_abroad/index.htm
Travel Insurances
Please note that it is essential that all volunteers take out the necessary
travel (including medical) insurance for the duration of their volunteer
programme.
When taking out the necessary insurance please make sure with the broker and
/ or underwriters of the policy that you will be covered for volunteer
activities / work as many regular travel insurance products do not provide this
type of cover.
Failure to take out the correct insurance cover may place you at risk and
liable for expenses occurred African Voluntourism, and it agents, cannot he held
liable for the failure / omission of the volunteer to provide proper and
adequate insurance cover.
South African Rand Exchange Rate