Preparation for Travel
Preparation is the key to a successful trip. By planning your holiday/visit before you leave, you minimize the chances of things going wrong.
Be Prepared
Before you board an airplane, take the time to learn about the political, cultural and economic environment of your destination. Learn at least a few key phrases in the country's language. Even a modest command of the local language will go a long way.When you are travelling, the laws of the country you are visiting apply to you too. Never assume that because you are a South African citizen, you are immune to foreign laws. In fact as soon as you land in the country you are visiting, you are subject to the country's laws, rules and regulations.Some countries experience ongoing wars, insurgencies or sporadic unrest. Find out timeously if your destination is known to be dangerous. Check with the Department of Foreign Affairs before you leave should you not be able to find information elsewhere.If you are abroad, contact the nearest South African mission and ensure that you have their contact details at hand.
Do You Have Your Passport?
Your passport together with your identity document is the best proof of your South African citizenship. You and all family members should have a valid passport if you plan to travel outside South Africa. If you have any questions about passports, you can either contact the Department of Home Affairs in Pretoria or any regional office of the Department of Home Affairs.
Passport application forms are available at all offices of the Department of Home Affairs countrywide and at South African missions abroad. If your passport is due to expire within the next six months, check with the embassy or consulate of your country of destination in South Africa for its rules and restrictions regarding passport validity and expiration. Some countries will not allow you entry if your passport is within six months of expiry.Before you leave on your trip, be sure to have with you information on whom to contact in case of accident or death. This will help us notify your relatives or friends should an emergency arise. Make a photocopy of your passport's identification page and keep it separate from the original when you travel. For added security, leave a photocopy of your passport with a relative or friend at home.If your passport is lost or stolen while you are travelling, contact the nearest South African mission immediately for a temporary passport/emergency travel document after reporting the loss or theft to the local police. .
A South African passport at all times remains the property of the Government of South Africa and may be used only by the person to whom it has been issued. Selling a passport or permitting any other individual or agency to use the passport may lead to criminal prosecution and is cause for revocation of the passport and refusal of future passport services. A South African passport should only, and always be in the possession of the person to whom it was issued.
Medical Insurance
It is strongly recommended that you take out medical insurance when deciding on travel abroad. The medical insurance should cover all hospitalisation and medication costs as well as for a possible medical evacuation. Your travel agent will be able to advice you on the most effective, yet economical package.Medical costs abroad, especially where foreigners are concerned who do not have medical insurance, can be astronomical. In instances medical treatment can be withheld if a person has no proof of funds or medical insurance.
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