South Africa
Moderate — regularly checked by airlinesSouth Africa welcomed 8.5 million international tourists in 2023. The average budget is 35 to 65 EUR per day. The country ranks as the second most visited tourist destination in Africa behind Morocco.
South Africa is one of the strictest destinations in Africa regarding proof of onward travel. South African authorities require a return or onward ticket for all foreign visitors, and this rule is systematically enforced. The Department of Home Affairs may deny entry to travelers without proof of exit. Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Kruger National Park attract 8.5 million international visitors per year.
Updated on March 2026
Visa Requirements
South Africa offers visa-free entry for nationals of the United States, EU, United Kingdom, and Australia for stays of 90 days. The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system is being rolled out. Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages. A return ticket is mandatory and checked at boarding and on arrival.
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Exemption | 90 days | Free0 EUR |
| Tourist Visa (ETA) | 90 days | Approximately 35 EUR~35 EUR |
Transit Rules
Transiting through South African airports (OR Tambo in Johannesburg, Cape Town International) requires a confirmed ticket to your final destination. Transit rules are strict and the onward ticket is systematically verified by airlines before boarding.
Documents Required
- Passport valid at least 30 days beyond planned departure date with minimum 2 blank pages
- Approved ETA (if applicable for your nationality)
- Return or onward ticket mandatory
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (35-65 EUR per day recommended)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from an endemic country)
Practical tip
South Africa is one of the strictest countries in the world regarding return tickets. Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages. Order your Volward onward ticket before check-in to avoid any boarding denial with South African Airways or FlySafair.
Order an onward ticket for South Africa
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an onward ticket to enter South Africa?▾
Yes, it is mandatory. South Africa is one of the strictest countries in the world on this point. The Department of Home Affairs requires proof of exit from the country, and airlines systematically check before boarding. A bank deposit may be requested as an alternative.
What is the South African ETA and when will it be mandatory?▾
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new travel authorization system being rolled out by the Department of Home Affairs. It will progressively replace the current visa exemption system. Travelers will need to register online at eta.dha.gov.za before departure.
How many blank pages do I need in my passport for South Africa?▾
Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages to enter South Africa. This rule is strictly enforced and airlines verify it at the check-in counter. A passport without sufficient blank pages will result in boarding denial at your departure airport.
Can I enter South Africa with a one-way ticket?▾
This is extremely risky. South Africa requires a return or onward ticket for all foreign visitors. Without proof of exit, you will likely be denied boarding by the airline. On arrival, immigration may require a deposit or deny you entry altogether.
Does South Africa require a bank deposit without a return ticket?▾
Yes, as a last resort, South African immigration may accept a cash deposit as a guarantee of departure. The amount varies but can reach several thousand rands. This amount is refunded upon departure. An onward ticket is a much simpler solution.
Are South African airlines strict about return tickets?▾
South African Airways, FlySafair, Kulula, and all airlines operating flights to South Africa strictly enforce IATA regulations. European and medium-haul carriers are also very rigorous about verifying return tickets at the check-in counter before boarding.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccine for South Africa?▾
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you arrive from an endemic country (most West and Central African countries, some South American countries). Without this certificate, you may be quarantined or denied entry into South Africa.
Do Cape Town and Johannesburg have different checks?▾
Checks are equally strict at both airports. OR Tambo (JNB) in Johannesburg is the largest airport in Africa and the main international entry point. Cape Town (CPT) receives many direct European flights. Both systematically enforce return ticket verification at immigration.
