Essential travel for South Africans who want to return to countries where they live and work has now been approved.
The announcement was made by Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi after successful efforts between his department and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the National Coronavirus Command Council.
Home Affairs said in a statement that, “South Africans who wish to leave the Republic are permitted to depart only for the following reasons: work, study, family reunion, to take up permanent residency or receive medical attention,”
Travel restrictions have been implemented in South Africa as part of the measures put in place to fight the spread of COVID-19. But, travel between countries is allowed in special circumstances.
Those wishing to return to the countries where they reside should have the following:
- A copy of their valid South African passport
- A letter confirming their admissibility under the current circumstances from the embassy or other diplomatic/consular representative of the country they want to travel to.
- If returning by road or connecting via flights, the proof submitted needs to include permission from each transiting country.
- Proof of means of travel such as air or bus tickets and the intended date of departure.
“South Africans who fall in these categories and satisfy the criteria can send an email to Covid19travel@dha.gov.za.”
The department said an email will be sent to travellers who meet the criteria enabling them to start with their travel arrangements.
“People applying as a group can send one email with the supporting documents for each member of the group.”
