Traveling abroad is so exciting, but before you can leave, you’re going to need international travel documents.
But what do you actually need if you are traveling to South Africa? Here are the standard international travel documents according to the US Department of State.
International Travel Documents
for the US Citizens
Passport
If you don’t have a passport, apply for one several months before your proposed travel.
If you do have a passport, it should be valid for at least 6 months after you return home. There should also be at least 2 or more blank pages available.
Also keep in mind that children’s passports are not valid for 10 years, as is the case with adult passports. If you are traveling with children, check their passports and apply if necessary.
Do you need it?
Yes. A passport is required to legally leave and enter any country.
International Driving Permit
To drive in South Africa, your driver’s license needs to be printed in English. If not, you will need to get an International Driver’s Permit.
No, if your driver’s license is in English.
Visas
U.S. citizens can visit South Africa for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa.
U.S. green card holders must check the list of visa-exempt countries to see if they need a visa to enter South Africa.
No visa is needed for a stay of up to 90 days.
Consent for travel with minors
If you are traveling alone with children, you may be required to offer notarized written consent from the other parent or custody documents.
If applicable.
Medications
Some prescription drugs, narcotics, and some U.S. over-the-counter medications are illegal in other countries.
Here is a list of medications that have been banned by the MCC – South Africa’s version of the CDC.
- Terfenadine – this is an antihistamine found in allergy medicines.
- All Kava-containing medicines – this is a medication that is used to treat stress, insomnia, anxiety. There are a lot of over-the-counter medications that contain this plant.
- Avandia – this is a diabetes medication that has been associated with an increased risk of heart failure and heart attacks.
- Flunitrazepam – this is a powerful hypnotic medication that is prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia.
- Chlormezanone – this is a potent muscle relaxant. It is associated with Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which is a life-threatening skin condition.
- Barbiturates in asthma medications – this is banned in South Africa due to its serious side effects.
- Mibefradil – this is used to treat hypertension and chronic angina pectoris.
If applicable.
Your travel documents are important! Here’s how to keep your passport and travel essentials safe.