Time Zone
South Africa operates two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2) year-round, one hour ahead of Central European Winter time, seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (winter), and seven hours behind Australian Central Time.
Passports and Visas
All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some cases, a visa. However, it is important to note that under South Africa’s Immigration Act of 2002 (Act. 13 of 2002) in force since 7 April 2003, (a) Immigration Act, 2002 the passport shall contain at least THREE unused pages when presenting the passport for endorsements. Failure to have a clear page can result in entry being refused. Please apply for your visa timeously, as many of the Embassies are backed up as a result of all the applications post Covid.
Passports need to be valid for a minimum of 6 months after your departure date from South Africa.
To determine whether you require a visa to enter South Africa, visit the comprehensive South African Home Affairs Department website at: Click here
For South African missions abroad: Click here
Entry into the country may be refused if the purpose of visit is not correctly stated.
A fee/charge is applicable for issuing a visa. The fee is payable in different countries. Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials are obliged to insist on visas before allowing passengers to board their flights. Should delegates arrive without the necessary visa where such is required, entry to South Africa will be denied.
Should you require a invitation letter for visa purposes please contact Registration – ishamcongress@congresscare.com
Weather and Clothing
Cape Town in September experiences mild weather with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 23°C. Layering is recommended, with warmer clothing for mornings, evenings, and cooler days.
Currency and Banking
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R, with 100 cents making up R1 (one Rand). Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes. Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are widely accepted. Click here for currency converter.
Electricity
The electricity supply in South Africa is 220/230 volts, AC 50 Hz. Please ensure that you bring the correct converter for your electrical equipment.
Tipping
Most restaurants do not add a service charge to bills – thus it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip. Parking and petrol station attendants should be given whatever small change you have available. This is always appreciated, even though it may seem a small amount.
Tax Refunds
Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their 15% VAT (from 1 April 2018) refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds R250.00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure provided receipts are produced.
Food and Water
In South Africa, it is advisable to drink bottled water instead of tap water. In hotels, restaurants and nightspots, the standards of hygiene and food preparation is top-notch. It is safe to eat fresh fruit and salads and to put as much ice as you like in your drinks.
Vaccinations
Visitors who are entering South Africa from a yellow fever zone must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Only infants under the age of one year are exempt. Immunisation against cholera and small pox are not required and no other vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa. More information can be found here.
