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South Africa travel ban explained: Why UK introduced red list restrictions to fight Omicron Covid variant

Six countries - south africa, namibia, lesotho, botswana, eswatini and zimbabwe - have been added to the red list.

The Government has placed South Africa and five neighbouring countries on the red list because of the Omicron Covid-19 “super-variant” .

UK experts believe the new variant could reduce vaccine effectiveness and there are signs it is more transmissible than the dominant Delta strain.

Why did the Government bring back the red list?

Six countries have been added to the red list; South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Botswana, Eswatini and Zimbabwe.

All six nations reported a rapid increase in rates of a new variant that has been declared a “variant under investigation” by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

There have been nearly 100 confirmed cases in South Africa, but the country’s health minister believes there are many more due to a surge in cases in Gauteng province.

What does the travel ban involve?

Holidaymakers and the travel industry will be dismayed at the return of England’s red list less than a month after the final six countries were removed from the register on 1 November.

From noon on Friday 26 November, South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe and Namibia were added to the red list.

A ban on all flights from red list countries began at noon on Friday 26 November and will end at 4am on Sunday 28 November.

The only people allowed into the country from red list nations once flights resume will be UK or Irish residents, who will be required to immediately enter managed hotel quarantine upon arrival.

Arrivals from red list countries must undertake an 11-night stay in a managed quarantine hotel at a cost of £2,285 for the first person and £1,430 for every additional adult. They must also take a PCR test on or before day 2 and on or after day 8 of quarantining.

Why is there also a fight ban?

While the Government says they have “hundreds of rooms on standby”, they have admitted that they need time to get hotel quarantine “up and running”.

There were 79,299 seats on 289 flights scheduled to and from the UK and South Africa for December alone, according to traveldata firm Cirium.

Finding space to repatriate travellers and house them in managed hotel quarantine is expected to be a challenge for the Government.

Travel industry expert Paul Charles told i : “Hotel capacity is under incredible strain, especially in the run-up to the festive period and hoteliers will be reluctant to give up any space now for housing people coming from the new red list countries.

“So the Government won’t have the ability to add many more countries as it has in the past because the availability won’t be there.”

Can travellers ‘launder’ their red list status in other countries?

Yes. Inbound travellers – whether or not they are British and Irish residents – can enter England quarantine-free by visiting another country and waiting there for 10 days before flying home.

They would then avoid quarantining so long as they return from a “rest of the world” list country.

While the EU, Japan, Singapore and Israel have all banned flights from South Africa, there are still many countries that are yet to impose restrictions and where passengers could easily “launder” their red list status.

Could more countries be added to the red list?

A Department for Transport spokesman told i that the red list was being kept “under review”. In a speech to the House of Commons on Friday, Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the Government was “continuing to make assessments, including about those countries with strong travel links to South Africa.”

There are concerns that more countries could be added to the red list after Omicron was detected in Belgium , Israel, Malawi and Hong Kong.

Experts say it is highly likely it will spread further, raising concerns that more countries could be moved to the red list at short notice.

Will the amber list return?

No, there is no longer an amber list. There are currently just two traffic light lists in England, the red list – which now includes South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Botswana, Eswatini and Zimbabwe – and the rest of the world list.

Without an amber list to act as an early warning system and buffer for holidaymakers, consumers may be unsure of which countries are now safe to book travel to.

Rory Boland, Which? Travel Editor, said: “Travellers must be mindful that with no amber travel list, countries can be added to the red list with no prior warning. This means that unless flights are also cancelled people won’t necessarily be entitled to a refund.

“Anyone planning a trip in the upcoming months should consider booking it as part of a package as that will ensure that they are protected should the restrictions change again. Some holiday firms will even let you rebook for free at a later date if your trip can no longer go ahead, so it’s worth paying attention to the small print.”

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Britain drops southern African nations from its ‘red list’ for quarantine restrictions.

With the Omicron variant already spreading, officials conclude they’ve lost the battle to prevent its entering Britain.

By Stephen Castle

• Dec. 14, 2021

With new coronavirus cases surging at home, the British government on Tuesday lifted its special restrictions on travelers arriving from 11 African countries, ending measures it had adopted hoping to curb the spread of the Omicron variant.

Nations including South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia were put on a “red list” in November, requiring anyone arriving in Britain from those countries to quarantine at their own expense in government-approved hotels for 10 days.

Other countries quickly placed their own restrictions on travel from southern Africa, prompting complaints that South Africa was being punished for its effective work in notifying other countries about the spread of the variant. Antonio Guterres, the secretary-general of the United Nations, described the restrictions as a form of “travel apartheid.”

Now, though, with Omicron already spreading widely in Britain, the government concluded that it had lost the battle to prevent its importation from abroad.

On Tuesday, the health secretary, Sajid Javid, announced the end of the “red list” restrictions for England that applied to Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

“Given that there is community transmission of Omicron in the U.K. and that Omicron has spread so widely across the world, the travel red list is less effective in slowing the incursion of Omicron from abroad,” Mr. Javid said in Parliament.

“While we will maintain our temporary testing measures for international travel, we will be removing all 11 countries from the travel red list, effective from 4 tomorrow morning,” he added.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, which maintained similar red lists, followed London’s lead on Tuesday.

World Health Organization officials thanked Britain for lifting the restrictions, which they had criticized as overly blunt and economically damaging. In South Africa, the minister of tourism, Lindiwe Sisulu, welcomed Britain’s decision, saying that the red list “was a huge deterrent for Brits who were considering traveling to South Africa at a time when our tourism industry was just beginning to recover.”

Mr. Javid said he would consider whether travelers who were already in quarantine hotels — some of whom have complained about the conditions — would have to finish their 10-day stay. “I am told that the practice in the past was to require them to complete their quarantine period,” he said, before adding that he had “asked for urgent advice” on the issue.

Fully vaccinated travelers coming to England from anywhere still have to show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken recently before departure, and then take a PCR test within two days of arrival and stay in quarantine until they receive a negative result.

The travel industry argues that these rules are deeply damaging. Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, said they would be reviewed in January.

Stephen Castle is London correspondent, writing widely about Britain, including the country’s politics and relationship with Europe. More about Stephen Castle

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Can I travel to South Africa? Entry requirements from the UK explained

By Abigail Malbon and Natalie Munro

The rules around travelling to South Africa have been completely lifted, meaning you can now enjoy all that the country has to offer, whether that’s booking your next safari or taking in the bustle and beauty of Cape Town . 

Here's what you need to know now before your next trip. 

Is travel to South Africa from the UK allowed?

Yes. There are no longer restrictions when travelling from the UK to South Africa, and there will be no entry requirements upon your return either. 

What are the entry requirements for South Africa?

There are currently no covid-related entry requirements when travelling to South Africa.

Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days after the date you intend to leave South Africa. Before travelling, it’s important to still check the latest rules and restrictions for both South Africa and the UK on official government websites. We also recommend investing in travel insurance with Covid cover to ensure you’re protected on your trip.

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UK block on South Africa flights pushes thousands of travel plans into disarray

BA and Virgin cancel flights and review schedules as fears grow over new Covid variant

Thousands of Britons in South Africa and many more with bookings to travel have had their plans thrown into disarray as flights were suspended on Friday.

The UK government temporarily blocked direct flights as it placed six southern African countries on the red list due to concerns over a new Covid-19 variant. The move comes at the start of peak holiday season, with airlines having booked tens of thousands of passengers to fly before Christmas.

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic , which operate the only direct flights to the region, linking London with Johannesburg and Cape Town, were forced to cancel flights landing in the UK before 4am Sunday. Both were urgently reviewing schedules to decide whether services will remain viable after the ban lifts.

British and Irish nationals on flights landing after 4am Sunday will have to go into hotel quarantine, while foreign nationals will be barred from entry under red list rules.

Virgin said it had cancelled holiday packages for the next month, while BA has so far only yet confirmed that flights will operate from South Africa on Monday evening.

BA and Virgin said they would contact customers who had booked flights. A BA spokesperson said it was “working through plans for our customers and colleagues currently in South Africa and those due to travel from the UK in the coming days”.

Virgin operates a daily return service from Heathrow to Johannesburg and was due to commence Cape Town services from 17 December, with sales taking off since restrictions were eased. The airline reported earlier this month it had taken 32,000 bookings on the routes in October, mainly for travel ahead of Christmas.

A spokesperson said the airline would allow all customers to rebook ahead of possible travel although some flights would likely go ahead for repatriations, cargo, and for those prepared to enter hotel quarantine. Virgin has cancelled, and stopped selling, all package holidays to the country until 6 January.

According to data from analysts Cirium, 289 direct flights in total, carrying up to 80,000 passengers, were scheduled by the two carriers between the UK and South Africa in December. Up to 22,000 passengers may have flown directly to or from South Africa to the UK in the past fortnight since the variant was first identified.

Airline and travel stocks fell sharply on Friday, with BA owner IAG, travel firm TUI and cruise firm Carnival all seeing their share price slide between 12% and 15%, amid fears travel restrictions will spread as the virus crosses continents.

The travel industry warned of the effects on wider consumer confidence as well as the direct hit on operators specialising in the region at the start of high season.

Abta, the body representing travel agents and tour operators, said that while public health was a priority and that it recognised why the red list decision has been taken, “this news will be devastating for many travel companies that specialise in travel to the Southern African countries affected. These businesses have had very little opportunity to generate income for almost two years and now face a further period of being unable to trade – just as the region’s peak season begins.”

Abta urged the government to consider targeted support for affected firms, adding: “It is also vital the decision is kept under careful review and that restrictions are lifted promptly if it becomes clear there is not a risk to the UK vaccination programme.”

Others strongly criticised the government’s actions, with a review of the red list restrictions unlikely for several weeks. Paul Charles, of travel consultancy the PC Agency, said: “They’ve created a loss of confidence based on possibles, maybes and no certainty. It will kill off Christmas for travellers.

“This is South Africa’s summer season, they were looking forward to recovery like many countries – this action will end it. Why not allow those who are fully vaccinated, up to date on boosters and fully tested to isolate at home?”

He said that there had been concern over other variants which were now forgotten, and added: “The government is falling back on early pandemic policies which are unproven and highly damaging to the economy.”

The government has said that the new variant may evade vaccines and may not respond to current treatments. The health secretary, Sajid Javid, said on Friday that a key lesson of the pandemic was “that we must move quickly and at the earliest possible moment”.

Among affected passengers were Alistair Maiden, 41, from Leeds, who works in legal technology and was in Cape Town for business. He was due to fly out tonight. “At 5am we received an email saying it has been cancelled,” he said.

Maiden considers himself luckier than others because his company will pay for additional flights on Saturday booked via Dubai to Spain, where he plans to quarantine – although he wants to get back as quickly as possible as he has three young children, including a four-month-old baby, at home. He said: “I do feel really sorry for people – it’s not like we went out and there was any risk that anyone was aware of. The government should probably pick up the tab for the people who are going to have to quarantine.”

A couple who planned to marry next month in Cape Town said they were “devastated, disappointed and deflated” by the changes. Amelia, 38, an actor and producer who lives in Hampshire and did not give her surname, and her fiance Nathan were due to fly out on 1 December but now are unsure if the wedding can go ahead. She said they initially decided to postpone their wedding but when South Africa was removed from the red list in October they “jumped with joy” and decided to revive their plans. Around 20 guests and family were due to travel from the UK.

She added: “Part of us thinks we could go on our own and get married but we want to take the new variant seriously and not put anyone at risk.

“I picked up my wedding dress and only yesterday had my travel jabs done. My head, heart and arms are sore today but we’re living in hope.”

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South Africa travel rules: What are the latest restrictions for holidaymakers?

It’s been two years of ups and downs for south africa’s once flourishing tourism scene. now nature lovers are returning, what are the current testing and quarantine rules, article bookmarked.

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South Africa had a tumultuous pandemic, involving some of the earliest detections of new variants, and blanket travel bans from countries including the UK.

Now its Covid situation has settled down, visiting this beautiful, coast-wrapped nation of sunkissed safaris and rugged beaches is easier than ever.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Do I need proof of vaccination or a test to visit South Africa?

No. South Africa lifted its remaining Covid-19 restrictions for travellers on 23 June.

This meant an end to the former rules, which included vaccinated travellers having to show proof of full vaccination and unvaccinated travellers providing a negative PCR or antigen test result at the border.

It also ended the restrictions on capacity for indoor venues - previously limited to 50 per cent of usual capacity or 1,000 maxmimum - which can now operate at full capacity.

Health minister Dr Joe Phaahla said: “Having monitored the positive direction for more than three weeks we came to the conclusion that the peak infection which we concluded was a limited fifth wave driven by subvariants and not a new variant of concern was dissipating and that there was no more any eminent risk.”

Do I need to fill in a passenger locator form before travel to South Africa?

You may be asked to fill in South Africa’s health form beforehand. You can print it out and complete it before travel, or your airline may provide you with a copy. Details to have to hand include your hotel’s address, countries you’ve visited in the past 14 days and your flight and seat number.

What if I’m just transiting through South Africa?

If you are catching a connecting flight in SA (Johannesburg, for example), you only need to have a pre-travel test or bring proof of vaccination if your final destination requires you to do so.

Do I need to wear a mask while on holiday in South Africa?

Wearing a mask in public places is no longer legally enforced in South Africa, though it is recommended in places where it is hard to socially distance. The rule was lifted along with the remaining Covid border rules on 23 June.

Do I need a visa?

British travellers do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days.

How much time do I need left on my passport?

South Africa requires you to have six months left on your passport (some sources say 30 days, but the Foreign Office warns that “some immigration officials” in the country demand six months remaining). You should also make sure your passport has at least two blank pages on the date you arrive.

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Home » News » South Africa

By Faizel Patel

Senior Digital Journalist

4 minute read

18 Apr 2024

UK warns citizens of possible terrorist attacks in South Africa, Dirco wants proof for claims

The uk foreign office said the main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including isis..

Picture: iStock

The United Kingdom (UK) Foreign Office has issued a terrorism alert for South Africa and British citizens who are in or planning to travel to South Africa.

On its website, the UK Foreign Office warned that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa”.

Terror threats

“There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

The UK Foreign Office said the main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh (ISIS), and who may carry out ‘lone actor’ attacks.

“Attacks could be indiscriminate and could target public spaces and places visited by foreigners, such as tourist sites, shopping centres, high profile events, crowded places

Over R1.5m spent on transporting SA government officials to the ICJ

“Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities,” it said.

ALSO READ: Ramaphosa hits outs at US embassy about possible terror attacks

Israel’s war in Gaza

The UK Foreign Office also warned the current conflict in Israel and the “Occupied Palestinian Territories and Gaza has led to heightened tensions around the world”.

“Terrorist groups, such as Al-Qaida and Daesh, have called on their supporters to carry out terrorist attacks in response to the conflict. The conflict could also motivate individuals to carry out attacks.

“Terrorist attacks could target Jewish or Muslim communities, or the interests of Israel and its allies. Attacks could also be indiscriminate and occur without warning,” the UK Foreign Office said.

State Security Agency (SSA) spokesperson Sipho Mbele told The Citizen , the “Travel Advisory was issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in January 2024 (is still in place) and was not specific to South Africa.

“Given the seriousness of the threat of terrorism, the Minister hereby wishes to indicate that there are established protocols between the SSA and its counterparts to exchange information on critical matters of national security on an ongoing basis. and as required.

“On domestic and international terrorism matters, the SSA continuously engages and cooperates with international partners, including the United Kingdom,” Mbele said.

However, International Relations Department (Dirco) director-general Zane Dangor was puzzled by the UK’s “strange” claims about the possibility of a terrorist attack on South African soil,” News24 reported.

Dangor said he was waiting for the foreign office to provide proof for the “unfounded” claims. He added the UK had failed to follow diplomatic channels to communicate concerns.

He added that the intelligence service from both countries usually speak to each other before an alert is issued. This did not happen this time.

ALSO READ: Terrorist attack warning by US embassy is credible, say experts

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Is it safe to travel to South Africa? Latest travel advice

There’s no doubt crime is a serious issue in south africa, and rates have been increasing. here’s what you need to know.

S outh Africa’s troubling crime rates is one of the things that’s been putting off tourists in recent years. Most recently, in January 2024, a British Airways pilot was targeted by armed robbers in Johannesburg and forced to withdraw thousands of pounds from cash machines around the city. The UK Foreign Office travel advice for the country also makes for particularly nerve-racking reading, stating that terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa and mentioning carjackings, armed robberies and other violent crimes.

Fortunately, visitors are generally sheltered from the worst of it and the vast majority don’t have any bad experiences. Many parts of the country rely on tourism and there’s an effort to ensure visitors continue to travel, especially after the pandemic. For travellers who do visit, they’re rewarded with captivating landscapes, an abundance of wildlife and fascinating culture — and there’s barely any time difference.

What happened to the British Airways pilot?

In January 2024, the unnamed BA pilot was buying food at the Blubird Shopping Centre in Johannesburg when he was approached by a woman asking for help carrying her bags. Outside, several men bundled him into a car and drove him to another part of the city where he was “badly roughed up” . Later he was driven around the city to different cash machines where he was forced to withdraw thousands of pounds in cash. He has since been released and has flown back to the UK.

The pilot in question wasn’t the only one who has been attacked in the South African city. Another BA pilot was stabbed while on a jog in July 2023.

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

South Africa is considered generally safe for tourists. The areas in which visitors typically stay — Cape Town ’s city centre and inner suburbs, the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route and safari destinations — are among the safest in the country. But even so it is worth staying vigilant.

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The Foreign Office says there is a high crime rate and that, while most violent crime takes place in townships on the outskirts of major cities or in isolated areas, tourists should always take safety precautions wherever they are. The threat is higher in central business districts of major cities than in suburban areas, and increases after dark. You should avoid walking at night — take an Uber instead — and don’t flash your valuables.

If you’re driving, don’t leave anything in your car — break-ins are common, particularly in the parking areas for Cape Town’s hiking trails. When you lock the car, check that it’s actually locked, as criminals often use remote jammers. On the go, keep your windows rolled up and doors locked — don’t open your window to speak to people at traffic lights — and stow bags and phones out of sight to avoid a “smash and grab”. Be aware of other drivers, especially on highways — road safety isn’t great and people often drink and drive.

Public transport is a mixed lot. The MyCiTi buses in Cape Town are generally safe, as is the Gautrain in Johannesburg , which connects the city to the airport. Avoid inter-city trains and minicabs.

Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International airport is notorious for luggage theft and the Foreign Office says people have been followed and then robbed, often at gunpoint. Make sure you keep all your valuables in your hand luggage and be careful when following GPS navigation. Avoid taking any alternative routes away from the main roads that may lead you to less secure areas.

Is Cape Town safe?

Cape Town is considered safe to travel to by the UK Foreign Office. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that crime rates are extremely high in the city, especially violent crime, including murder. In fact, Mexico’s Citizen Council for Public Security and Criminal Justice ranks it among the most violent cities in the world.

That said, it depends on where you are in the city. The areas frequented by tourists, such as the V&A Waterfront, have tight security and visits are generally trouble-free. And while the busy areas of Table Mountain are safe, there have been attacks on hikers in the more remote areas.

What else should I be aware of?

Popular beaches have lifeguards and sometimes shark spotters. Read and take heed of any warning signs.

Beach conditions and local safety measures can vary. Ask for a lifejacket if you decide to participate in water sports. Avoid swimming on beaches where there is no equipment or warning signs and, if in doubt, don’t enter the water.

It’s best to go hiking with a guide — you also get your own personal photographer that way. If you don’t go with a guide, make sure you join a group who know the mountains (check out Meetup or search Facebook or Instagram for community groups). Most permitted hiking trails in South Africa require you to be in a group of at least three for safety.

In Cape Town, there are hotspots for muggings and being alone on the trails can make you quite vulnerable — not just in relation to crime, but also if you hurt yourself, get lost or become unwell (through dehydration or a snake bite, for example).

The weather can change very quickly, too. It’s always a good idea to use Safety Mountain, a WhatsApp-based tracking service where you share the details of your Table Mountain hike or run and a volunteer will follow up if you’re late to check out.

Make sure you Google and save the relevant emergency rescue numbers for whatever part of the country you’re in. 10111 for police, 10177 for an ambulance and 112 for emergency services from a mobile phone (free) should work all over South Africa.

• Best hikes in South Africa

Is South Africa safe for women?

The answer to this underlines the difference between tourists and people who live in South Africa. The country has horrifying rape and gender-based violence statistics. In a 2009 study, one in four men admitted to committing rape. A third of girls will experience sexual abuse in their lifetime. South Africa is one of the most dangerous countries for women and girls — most at risk are those who live in poor and underserved areas such as townships.

While it’s important to know this, most female visitors will be fine and many women travel solo around South Africa. To keep yourself as safe as possible, don’t travel after dark. Aim to stay in hotels and guesthouses with decent security. Join groups for hiking or city tours (you also learn a lot more with a guide). Let people at home know where you are and what your plans are.

Use Uber over Bolt — Uber has better security features (such as driver facial recognition ID checks).

Is South Africa safe for honeymooners?

South Africa is a great honeymoon destination. Couples typically combine Cape Town with a safari and perhaps a beach break, either in South Africa or a resort in Mauritius or Mozambique. These kinds of trips follow safe tourist routes and visitors are unlikely to face problems if following basic safety advice.

• Best beaches in South Africa

Is South Africa safe for LGBTQ travellers?

The facts about LGBTQ safety again reveal the contrasting experiences of those in disenfranchised communities and wealthy residents or tourists. Life can be extremely dangerous for LGBTQ people in townships. Yet in legal terms, South Africa is very liberal. People are protected from sexual orientation discrimination and it was one of the first countries in the world to legalise gay marriage — and same-sex couple visitors are very unlikely to encounter any problems. Cape Town is considered the most gay-friendly city in the country with a slew of LGBTQ bars and clubs, mostly around De Waterkant.

Where should I avoid in South Africa?

A good general rule is to ask people at your hotel or accommodation about a place you’re interested in visiting — they’ll have a much better idea of whether it’s safe at the current time and they’ll be able to recommend a guide to accompany you if needed.

Avoid protests and any areas experiencing unrest, for obvious reasons — again, ask locals about what’s happening at the time you’re travelling. Situations can change quickly. In 2024, South Africa will be holding its seventh general election, which may lead to unrest, so it’s worth checking local media for details before you travel.

Typically, it’s not wise to travel into townships as a tourist by yourself. But that doesn’t mean you can’t go — find a guide through local businesses such as 18 Gangster Museum and Juma Art Tours in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, or Lebo’s in Soweto, Johannesburg.

Johannesburg is a really fun city to visit, with plenty to entertain tourists, but it does have a particularly high crime rate. There are areas to avoid and it’s best to ask a local guide or hotel staff about specifics and not to wander. If visitors experience crime, it’s likely to be theft — so keep your belongings secure (don’t leave your bag hanging off the back of your chair, for example) and be aware of who is around you.

Try to figure out your route before you leave so you don’t need to check your phone in the street. In cars, keep an eye on your surroundings when stopping at red lights, especially in quiet areas or at night; ideally, avoid driving after dark. Outside the major cities, it’s generally much safer — but you should still be vigilant and take normal safety precautions.

• Best South Africa tours • Best wildlife to see in South Africa • Best safaris in South Africa • Best hotels in Cape Town • Best things to do in Cape Town • Best things to do in Johannesburg • Best things to do in Durban

Additional reporting by Lucy Perrin

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• International travel, immigration and repatriation during COVID-19

Travel ban implemented to protect public health following South Africa COVID-19 outbreak

New travel restrictions on passengers arriving in England from South Africa.

• passengers travelling from South Africa into England from 9am Thursday 24 December will not be permitted to enter, reflecting increased risk from new strain of coronavirus
• British and Irish Nationals, visa holders and permanent residents arriving from South Africa will be able to enter but are required to self-isolate for 10 days along with their household
• travellers urged to continue to check the latest advice from the FCDO

The government has responded urgently to new evidence which demonstrates the need to temporarily suspend entry for passengers arriving from South Africa to England.

From 9am Thursday 24 December 2020, visitors arriving into England who have been in or transited through South Africa in the previous 10 days will not be permitted entry and direct flights will be banned. This excludes cargo and freight without passengers.

This does not include British and Irish Nationals, visa holders and permanent residents, who will be able to enter but are required to self-isolate for 10 days along with their household.

The decision follows the release of further information from health authorities in South Africa reporting an outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19), with a variant strain spreading in some provinces.

This is different to the UK variant, meaning a travel ban is critical to prevent further domestic infection.

The UK does not currently have a travel corridor with South Africa, and so anyone who has returned from the country recently should already be self-isolating for 10 days and should continue to do so.

Any exemptions usually in place – including for those related to employment – will not apply and passengers arriving in England from South Africa after 9pm on 23 December cannot be released from self-isolation through Test to Release .

People who share a household with anyone self-isolating after returning from South Africa will now also need to self-isolate until 10 days have passed since anyone they live with was last in South Africa.

The UK government is working closely with international partners to understand the changes in the virus that have been reported in South Africa and we are conducting a programme of further research here in the UK to inform our risk assessments.

British and Irish Nationals, visa holders and permanent residents who are arriving from South Africa will be required to show a complete passenger locator form on arrival into the UK . This is critical in being able to track the virus in case of any local outbreaks.

The Home Office will step up Border Force presence to ensure that those arriving to England from South Africa are compliant with the new restrictions.

The ban and expanded self-isolation measures will be kept under review.

Decisions on border measures can be changed rapidly if necessary to help stop the spread of the disease. Likewise travel advice is constantly updated with the latest information for British and Irish nationals. Britons in South Africa should continue to check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office travel advice and sign up to email alerts.

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Update April 12, 2024

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South Africa Travel Advisory

Travel advisory february 5, 2024, south africa - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect safety consideration when using GPS navigation. 

Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to  crime  and  civil unrest . 

Country Summary:   Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark.

Using GPS navigation can lead to unsafe routes. GPS navigation may suggest shortcuts through townships as the quickest preferred route but can lead to increased risks of crime.

There have been incidents in which tourists traveling in Cape Town while using GPS navigation apps have been routed through residential areas with high rates of violent crime. The safest approach to return a rental car to Cape Town International Airport is to take the N2 highway and follow signs to Airport Approach Rd ( exit 16 ). Alternatively, request the rental car company to collect your vehicle and subsequently arrange an airport transfer from established taxi companies or established ridesharing services to reach the airport.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services; such events have the potential to turn violent. 

Please see our  Alerts  for up-to-date information. 

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Africa. 

 If you decide to travel to South Africa: 

• Research your route in advance, stay on major highways, avoid shortcuts through townships, and avoid reliance on GPS navigation apps.
• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. 
• Avoid visiting informal settlement areas unless you are with someone familiar with the area. 
• Do not display cash or valuables. 
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed. 
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Africa. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Travel Advisory Levels

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UK Issues Travel Advisory on Kenya; Here's Why

T he United Kingdom (UK) through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued an advisory to British nationals residing in Kenya providing advice on the risks of travel.

The advisory, FCDO noted in a statement on May 1, 2024, is aimed at helping British nationals make informed decisions in the midst of the ongoing heavy rains and recent incidents of terror attacks witnessed in different parts of the country.

The office listed areas where British Nationals are to avoid travelling to within Kenya, further warning that their travel insurance could be invalidated if they go against FCDO advice.

Among the areas listed include the Kenya-Somalia border where the office advised against all but essential travel to areas within 60km of the border due to on-going terrorism activity.

“In Eastern Garissa County, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to eastern Garissa County, up to 20km north-west of the A3 while in Mandera County, the office advises against all but essential travel to the County, excluding Mandera West subcounty,” reads the statement in part.

At the same time, travel to Lamu County was advised against excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island.

UK Travel Advisory

UK Nationals were asked to fly to Lamu Airport (a civilian airport on Manda Island) if travelling to Lamu Island or Manda Island and avoid travelling by road.

Also Read:   US Embassy Issues Security Alert in Nairobi Residential Areas

In Tana River County, UK advised against all but essential travel to areas of the County north of the Tana River, up to 20km north-west of the A3.

“Coast between the Tana River and Galana River, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 15km of the coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River,” reads part of the advisory.

Travel between the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Nairobi City was also highlighted with the UK advising on the use the Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway.

According to FCDO, there is a higher risk of carjacking on the old airport road (Airport South Road) and Jogoo Road, which its nationals should avoid.

Also Read:   Australia Issues Travel Advisory on Kenya Over Terrorists Attacking Foreigners

At the same time the office noted that Mombasa Road can get very busy during rush hour, and check-in at the airport can take several hours.

“Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. A vehicle security check outside the airport may add to your journey time,” adds FCDO.

For areas located in North and North-east Kenya, the office warned that there have been increased reports of criminal activity linked to cattle rustling and banditry in the region from West Pokot (in the northern Rift Valley) east towards Isiolo county.

According to the UK, foreigners are not usually the bandit targets, but instead advised its nationals to take great care when travelling in the region.

Other regions highlighted

Other areas listed include Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties where FCDO advised UK nationals to follow local security measures and use caution.

While addressing recent cases of landmine explosions around Moyale, the office advised vehicles crossing the Kenya-Ethiopia border to stay on the A2 Road.

“Avoid staying at the rest house at Sololo – travel directly to Marsabit before breaking the journey,” the advisory adds.

The FCDO constantly reviews its travel advice for each country or territory to ensure it includes up-to-date information and advice on the most relevant issues for British people visiting or living there.

It covers a range of topics, including entry requirements, safety and security issues, health risks, details about local laws and information on the threat from terrorism.

The UK updates travel advice as quickly as possible if it is aware of an incident that might significantly affect British people travelling or living in a certain area.

Do you want to be part of an updated community without the interruptions of unwanted messages? Click the link below and join our WhatsApp Channel!

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Russian fighter-bomber 'shot down over Donetsk'; Ukraine faces another wave of Russian drones

A Russian Su-25 fighter-bomber jet has been shot down over the eastern region of Donetsk, according to Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Elsewhere, Ukraine's air force said it downed 23 out of 24 Russian drones overnight.

Sunday 5 May 2024 15:20, UK

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• Russia claims complete control over another village  
• Analysis: Ukraine looks to trade territory for time
• Ukraine retreating in attempt to avoid being outflanked, ISW says
• Russian fighter-bomber 'downed by Ukraine'
• Moscow lashes out at Baltic states
• Analysis:  UN undermined as North Korea appears to defy arms embargo
• Analysis: Will US aid help turn tide on Russia?
• Your questions answered:  Why can't Ukraine destroy key Crimean bridge?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

We're pausing our live coverage of the war in Ukraine for the time being - thanks for tuning in. 

This footage shows Russian troops preparing for a Victory Day parade in the Red Square in Moscow. 

The event comes just days after Vladimir Putin's fifth inauguration as president of Russia. 

By  Sean Bell , military analyst 

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that Ukrainian forces shot down a Russian Su-25 fighter-bomber jet over the Donetsk region yesterday.   

The Russian fighter - codenamed Frogfoot by NATO - is primarily used to provide close air support for Russian frontline troops. 

Pre-war the Russians had between 70 and 80 serviceable Su-25s, but Ukraine claims to have shot down around six of these to date.

But is this loss important in the broader scheme of the war?

Fresh Western supplies of weapons are starting to arrive in Ukraine, and the expectation is that air defence missiles would probably be the first priority. 

Ukraine's claim that it has shot down 23 of 24 Russian drones last night and the successful targeting of one of its fighter jets also suggests that Ukraine is stabilising its defensive posture.  

However, on the frontline, reports suggest that Russian forces have made further advances, taking several more communities - including Ocheretyne.  

Military experts believe that Ukraine is making a "managed withdrawal" from key sites to trade territory for time - in anticipation of the arrival of fresh supplies of Western military aid.

Military offensives generally incur significantly greater losses for the attacking force than that defending. 

The UK's Ministry of Defence has reported that Russia's April offensive action has resulted in 899 Russian casualties per day, which is higher than at the peak of the attritional battle for Bakhmut. 

However, it has proven very difficult to secure reliable figures for the Ukraine war, with Russia playing down the scale of its losses, and Kyiv avoiding reporting specific numbers.

Regardless, it seems likely that Vladimir Putin will be keen to avoid another round of Russian mobilisation for fear of highlighting the growing numbers of Russian casualties.  

Instead,  Russia is reported to be recruiting foreign nationals to bolster its army, with the latest target being Cuba.  

It is reported that Cuban recruits have been offered monthly salaries of up to £1600 per month, when their average salary in Cuba is around £20 per month. 

The package naturally appears attractive, particularly if recruits are initially told that they will not serve on the frontline.

Until the resupply of Western weapons and ammunition arrives, it looks likely that Russia will continue to capitalise on Ukraine's shortage of weapons to push forward and secure as much territory as possible in the Donbas.  

And Ukraine will seek to ensure Russia pays a high price for every metre of ground ceded.  

These images show members of the 93rd Kholodnyi war separate mechanised brigade celebrating Orthodox Easter on the frontlines of Russia's war against Ukraine. 

The Ukrainian troops are fighting in Donetsk, where much of Russia's military focus is. 

This footage shows firefighters battling a blaze in Kharkiv in the early hours of yesterday morning. 

The region was consistently targeted yesterday, with several drone and shelling attacks across the area.

Russia's targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure with drones and missiles has cost Kyiv some £1bn (£796m), the country's energy minister has claimed. 

German Galushchenko said that, since mid-March, Russian forces have been attacking Ukrainian thermal and hydropower stations - as well as main networks - on an almost daily basis.

This has led to blackouts in many regions.

"Today, we are talking about the amounts of losses for more than a billion dollars," he said.

"But the attacks continue, and it is obvious that the losses will grow," he added. 

By Sean Bell , military analyst 

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has adopted nine major sanctions on North Korea in response to the country's nuclear and missile activities since 2006.  

In June of that year, the UNSC established an embargo on exports of major arms to and imports from North Korea. 

In June 2009, it widened the embargo to all arms, except for the export small arms and light weapons to the country, before eventually banning those too in 2015.

Russia was a signatory to those embargoes.

Yet, late last year, a series of Russian senior leadership visits to North Korea were focused on solving Russia's growing demand for weapons, artillery shells and missiles to support its war in Ukraine.  

Although Russia has denied that it imports North Korean weapons, the Royal United Service Institute (RUSI) has been tracking ships transporting weapons to Russia.  

It has tracked four Russian cargo ships, each transporting hundreds of containers.

Estimates suggest that over 7,000 containers carrying over one million ammunition shells, rockets and missiles have been sold to Russia by North Korea since a deal was struck last year.

Russia denies that it is importing any North Korean weapons.

However, an inspector from the Conflict Arms Research team based in Ukraine has been studying the remains of a series of missiles fired at Ukrainian targets this year and has made a series of important discoveries.  

According to reports, parts of the missile remains included characters only used in the Korean alphabet, and the number '112' was stamped into parts of the missile - '2023' in the Korean calendar.

Closer investigation of hundreds of electronic components revealed that the missiles were "bursting" with Western technology.  

Most of the electronics were manufactured in the US or Europe, and were sourced over the past few years.  

Despite supposedly significant sanctions, North Korea has managed to illicitly procure large quantities of Western technology, assemble missiles and sell them to Russia to be used in its war in Ukraine.

Although the North Korean weapons might not be very effective, they are cheap, so can be procured in large quantities and used to degrade Ukrainian air defence systems.

Quantity has a quality all of its own - so what is the point of sanctions if they can so easily be bypassed?  

North Korea is evidently profiting from its arms export arrangement with Russia, which will create further opportunities for Pyongyang to expand arms exports as a vital source of revenue - to grow its economy and military capability.  

Not to mention it undermines the authority of the UN - given that Russia is a signatory to the ban on North Korean arms exports, yet is flagrantly ignoring this ban to meet its wartime needs.

Yet, the UN appears powerless to enforce its own sanctions.

Russia claims it has taken complete control of the village of Ocheretyne in eastern Ukraine. 

The village, which lies northwest of the former Ukrainian stronghold of Avdiivka, which Russia captured in February, had a pre-war population of around 3,000. 

Russia has made steady advances since taking Avdiivka, and this would mark the latest in a string of villages in the area to fall into Moscow's grasp. 

These images show Russian servicemen and women preparing for the annual Victory Day parade in Moscow. 

On the 9 May, the military will march through the Red Square in front of Vladimir Putin - who will have been sworn in once again as president days earlier (see 9.04am post).

The parade will showcase Russian military hardware with vehicles, aircraft and soldiers all taking the stage.

Russian forces are continuing to advance west of Avdiivka, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

The US-based thinktank said it had geolocated footage showing Russian soldiers advancing near Arkhanhelske, which is just northwest of the Russian-held city. 

Fighting has intensified in villages like Arkhanhelske near Avdiivka, and further north around Chasiv Yar in recent weeks. 

"ISW assesses that the Russian seizure of Arkhanhelske also indicates that Russian forces likely control Keramik and Novokalynove (both southeast of Arkhanhelske)," it said. 

It also said it had noted Ukrainian forces withdrawing from northern Arkhanhelske. 

"Ukrainian forces may have decided to trade space for time as they wait for the arrival of US aid to the frontline at scale in the coming weeks - an appropriate decision for an under-resourced force at risk of being outflanked," it said. 

"Russian forces appear to be choosing to exploit the tactical situation northwest of Avdiivka - a sound military undertaking - but their ultimate objective in this frontline sector remains unclear."

Here's the latest battlefield situation on the ground...

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Urgent warning for UK tourists not to travel to holiday hotspot

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The Foreign Office has warned Britons to avoid travelling in parts of Turkey due to a ‘heightened risk of terrorism’.

It already advises against all travel within 6km of Turkey ’s border with Syria .

Now the government has also issued an urgent warning against all but essential travel to Şırnak city or nearby Hakkâri province.

Both are in the southeast of Turkey where, in addition to Ankara and Istanbul, ‘most terrorist attacks have occurred’, the Foreign Office (FCDO) website states.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan pledged to ‘protect our country from the ring of fire through a security corridor across our borders’, during a speech in Şırnak this March, Daily Sabah reported.

Said to be home of Noah’s tomb, Şırnak is packed with archaeological and religious sites, including a castle and a partially ruined red madrasah.

It also has mountains, rivers and canyons that makes it of interest to visiting tourists, Hürriyet Daily News said.

But its proximity to the Syrian border can also make it dangerous.

Historically the threat came from the PKK, a militant group fighting for independence of the Kurdish people.

It has carried out bombings and massacres within Turkey since the 1980s, and has found itself fighting Turkish forces in Syria since Turkey’s invasions of Kurdish-controlled regions there in 2016 and 2019.

The FCDO said: ‘Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there remains a heightened risk of terrorism in the region.’

Although PKK terrorism in Şırnak and Hakkâri has largely died down, ISIS and Al-Qaeda -linked groups in Syria continue posing a threat.

ISIS has ‘previously targeted border crossings and nearby locations on the Syrian side of the border’ and has ‘the capacity to carry out attacks in neighbouring countries’, the FCDO website says.

Sites visited by foreigners – including airports, places of worship and large public gatherings like religious events and public holidays – are on the list of potential targets.

The FCDO said: ‘If you’re undertaking essential travel to Şırnak city or Hakkâri Province, take extreme care.’

Elsewhere, visitors face road closures in the southern Hatay Province when travelling routes leading to the Syrian border.

And the biblical resting place of Noah’s Ark, Mount Ararat in the eastern Ağrı Province, is a special military zone that requires a fee and permit to enter.

The FCDO said: ‘If visiting with a travel agent or tour group, confirm with them whether you need an individual permit.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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