Inbound industry association SATSA has brought attention to an increase in cases of tourists encountering “serious difficulties” when not carrying their original travel documents.

“These incidents not only cause stress and disruption for the tourists but also reflect poorly on our industry as a whole,” SATSA stressed in an alert to its members.

SATSA, committed to addressing this growing problem head-on, has compiled an essential guide on travel documentation requirements to help buyers better inform and prepare their clients for their South African adventures.

Sharing this information can help reduce complications, enhance visitor experiences and uphold the professionalism of the South African tourism sector, the association stated.

Here’s what foreign tourists need to know, according to SATSA:

• The golden rule: original passport is key
  As required by the Immigration Act No 13 of 2002 (Section 41), travellers must carry an original, valid passport at all times. A photocopy of a foreign passport is not sufficient identification when travelling within South Africa.
   

Why the original matters:

• Proof of identity: A traveller’s passport is an official form of identification in South Africa.
• Visa verification: The visa, which is endorsed in the traveller’s passport, proves permission to be in the country.
• Unexpected checks: Authorities can request to see a traveller’s passport at any time.

Crossing borders within Southern Africa
When planning a multi-country trip, travellers must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond an intended stay in each country – and they must have the necessary visas. Visa requirements vary depending on nationality so always check with the relevant embassies or consulates before travel.