All country guides
- Capital
- Jamestown
- Dialing Code
- + 290
- Time Zone
- No GMT offset
- Language
- English
- Best Time to Go
- January - March
- Currency
- St Helena Pound (SHP)
Travel Tips
- There are no ATM's on St Helena. Bank of St Helena is able to exchange foreign currency for SHP. A limited supply of foreign currency is also available for exchange, these currencies include South African Rand (ZAR), EURO and US Dollar (USD). It is advisable to change back any surplus local currency before leaving the islands
- Credit and Debit Cards are not widely accepted for payment
- While tap water is generally safe to drink in most parts of St Helena, the quality can vary. Bottled water and filters are available, if preferred
Last updated 8 October 2026
Visa Guide
Public Holidays
2026
January: 1
April: 3, 6
May: 21, 25
August: 31
November: 13
December: 25 - 26, 28
Visa Requirements
No visas are required by South African passport holders for a stay of up to 90 days.
If you require a visa, or for additional queries:
Email: evisaenquiries@sainthelena.gov.sh
Immigration Website: www.sainthelena.gov.sh/public-services/immigration
E-visa Website: evisa.sainthelena.gov.sh
Entry Requirements
- Valid passport, with expiry date 6 months after the date of departure and 2 blank pages
- Pre-arranged accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Return flight tickets / onward travel arrangements
- Medical insurance which must cover evacuation to the value of £175,000.00
- A fee of £20.00 is payable for all visitors over 12 years of age when arriving at St Helena. Payment can be made in the following currencies: British or Saint Helenian Pounds / South African Rands / US Dollars / Euros
Health / Vaccinations
If docking en route to the USA, please check with the Health Authorities.
Compulsory:
Yellow Fever (Dependant on Country of Origin/Stopover)
Recommended Travel Vaccines:
Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio