For German nationals planning a visit to South Africa, understanding the entry requirements and preparing the necessary documents can help guarantee a hassle-free experience.
South Africa offers visa-free entry for short visits, but some rules and recommendations apply to make your trip safe and enjoyable.
Do German citizens need a visa to enter South Africa?
German citizens do not require a visa for tourism or business visits to South Africa lasting up to 90 days. However, for stays longer than this, or for specific purposes like work or study, a visa application will be necessary before travelling.
Despite not needing a visa, German travellers are required to fill out the South Africa Travel Declaration before they arrive in the country.
German passport requirements
To enter South Africa, German passports must be valid for at least 30 days beyond the planned departure date.
Additionally, South African immigration requires at least 1 blank page in the passport for entry and exit stamps. Failing to meet these requirements could result in denial of entry upon arrival.
Staying beyond 90 days as a German citizen
German citizens planning to stay in South Africa for over 90 days will need to apply for a temporary residence visa.
There are various types available, each tailored to specific activities or purposes, such as business visas, student visas, retired persons’ visas and general work visas.
For a complete list and detailed requirements, you can consult the official website of the South African Department of Home Affairs.
South Africa Travel Declaration for German passport holders
German travellers are required to complete the South African Travel Declaration form, which can be submitted online before departure or upon arrival.
This form assists customs in clearing travellers more efficiently and guarantees all documentation is in place for entry.
If you choose to apply for your Travel Declaration with us, you’ll receive a range of benefits, including:
- 24/7 customer support
- Skipping the queues at the airport when you arrive
- Expert error-checking service
German Consular Assistance in South Africa
These offices can provide assistance in emergencies, issue replacement travel documents, and offer legal guidance if needed during your stay in South Africa.
German Embassy in Pretoria
- Location: 180 Blackwood St, Arcadia, Pretoria
- Phone: +27 (12) 427-8900
- Website: https://southafrica.diplo.de/sa-en
German Consulate in Cape Town
- Location: 4 Stirling St, Zonnebloem, Cape Town
- Phone: +27 (21) 405-3000
- Website: https://southafrica.diplo.de/sa-en/vertretungen/generalkonsulat-cape-town
South African Embassy and Consulates in Germany
The South African Embassy and consulates in Germany offer visa services and other consular support for German citizens needing assistance before or during their trip.
South African Embassy in Berlin
- Location: Tiergartenstraße 18, 10785 Berlin
- Phone: +49 30 220730
- Website: http://www.suedafrika.org
South African Consulate in Munich
- Location: Sonnenstraße 5, 80331 Munich
- Phone: +49 89 2311630
- Website: http://www.suedafrika.org
These consulates can provide essential services for South Africans living or travelling in Germany, as well as support for German nationals needing travel documentation and information for their South African visit.
Travelling to South Africa from Germany Frequently Asked Questions
Germans often have many questions regarding travel to South Africa, from vaccination requirements to safety precautions. Below are the answers to some of their most frequently asked questions.
Do I need any vaccinations to travel to South Africa?
No specific vaccinations are required for German citizens entering South Africa. However, it’s advisable to stay updated on health guidelines if you’re arriving from areas with infectious diseases or plan to travel to regions with higher health risks.
Is a yellow fever certificate necessary for entry?
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only needed if you’re arriving from or recently transited through a yellow fever-endemic country. This requirement doesn’t apply if you’ve only transited in such a country without leaving the airport.
Should I get travel health insurance for South Africa?
While not mandatory, travel health insurance is highly recommended for German visitors. Medical care in South Africa can be costly for non-residents, and German health insurance typically doesn’t cover expenses incurred abroad, making travel insurance essential.
How can I stay safe while visiting South Africa?
To stay safe, avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas, keep valuables secure, and limit displaying valuable items in public. Also, use ATMs in secure locations like banks or shopping centres to minimize risks.
Is driving in South Africa safe for tourists?
Driving is generally safe, but be cautious due to load shedding, which can affect traffic lights. Keep car doors locked, windows closed, and remain vigilant at stop lights to prevent opportunistic theft, especially in high-traffic areas.
What kind of power adapter do I need for South Africa?
South Africa uses a 230V electrical system with plug types H and C. German travellers will need an adapter and may require a voltage converter if their devices are not dual voltage.
What should I do in case of an emergency in South Africa?
In case of an emergency, German travellers can contact the German Embassy in Pretoria or consulates in Cape Town. These offices offer consular services, including document replacement, legal support, and assistance in emergencies.
What currency is used in South Africa?
South Africa's official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR), often represented with the symbol "R." Major cities have ATMs, and credit cards are widely accepted. It's recommended to carry some local currency for small purchases, as not all areas accept foreign cards.
What languages are commonly spoken in South Africa?
South Africa has 11 official languages, with English widely spoken in urban areas, business settings, and tourist destinations. Other common languages include Zulu, Xhosa, and Afrikaans. German-speaking visitors will find English to be the most helpful language for communication.
Which German airports offer flights to South Africa?
German travellers have several options for flying directly to South Africa from major German airports, including Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Munich Airport (MUC). Both airports offer regular flights to South Africa’s main international hubs, such as Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT). Lufthansa and South African Airways provide direct flights from Germany to South Africa.
