High risk countries list revised, three month stay period allowed

19th October 2020 By: Thabi Shomolekae - Creamer Media Senior Writer

The South African government on Monday issued the revised list of high risk countries, saying it will allow visitors hoping to stay in the country for a period of three months or more, subject to Coronavirus (Covid-19) protocols. 

The list was revised based on a risk categorisation model, balancing saving lives and protecting livelihoods.

Government emphasised that people from high risk countries who may visit South Africa include business travellers, holders of critical skills visas, investors and people on international mission in sports, arts, culture and science.

Government said it recognised that many European visitors, some of whom own properties in South Africa, have previously travelled to the country for longer periods during summer.

“We appreciate the significant economic contribution that they make through their activities in the country. To this end, we will also allow visitors, in whichever category, who are coming to stay for a three months period or more subject to Covid-19 protocols,” said the government.

Travellers on the African continent are still welcome into the country, subject to Covid-19 protocols, however, the South African government urged that precautions still be taken.