It is now an offence for a South African citizen to enter or depart the Republic of South Africa using the passport of a different country. It is also an offence for such a citizen, while in SA, to use their foreign citizenship or nationality to gain an advantage or avoid a duty whilst within South Africa, punishable by fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months.
A South African citizen, who has dual citizenship or nationality, can freely use their foreign passport outside of South Africa. However, they must use their South African passport to depart from or enter South Africa and adhere by the following:
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SARS Online DeclarationToggle
All travellers must complete an online declaration of goods using the SARS Online Traveller Declaration within 24 hours of travel
Passport Validity and RequirementsToggle
- Passports must be valid for at least 30 days after the intended date of departure.
- Passports should also have at least two blank pages for entry stamps and the visa itself. The blank pages cannot include the “endorsement” page at the back of the book
- Ensure possession of a valid return ticket as well as any visa and health documentation required by your destination
Driving AbroadToggle
Those driving across borders should ensure possession of the following:
- Original vehicle registration papers
- A letter of authorisation from the owner or financial institution if your car is being financed
- Proof of insurance