Bilateral Relations

History of Relations

South Africa and the Republic of Albania established official relations during 1992.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Albania

The South African Ambassador to Rome, Italy, is accredited to Albania on a non-residential basis.

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Albanian Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information contact the South African Embassy in Rome, Italy, or applications can be submitted to the closest Albanian Embassy or Consulate or directly to the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tirana.

Health Requirements

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Although Albania is a relatively small country, it has many climatic regions. The coast has a typically Mediterranean climate while the highlands have a Mediterranean continental climate. In both the lowlands and the interior, the weather varies remarkably from north to south. The lowlands have mild winters, averaging at about 7 degrees Celsius. Summer temperatures average at about 24 degrees Celsius with a high degree of humidity, which makes it uncomfortable. In the southern lowlands, temperatures average about five degrees higher throughout the year.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Albania, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa-Algeria: The political relations between South Africa and Algeria emanated from the original contacts between the liberation movements of the two countries during the 1950s and 1960s. Diplomatic relations between South Africa and Algeria were formalised in May 1994. The South African Embassy was established in Algiers in November 1997.

South Africa-Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic: Diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic date back to the 1970s, resulting from the contacts between the liberation movements from both countries. Diplomatic relations were formalised in September 2004, when South Africa took a decision to recognise the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. Diplomatic ties between the two countries have been cemented with theSahrawi Arab Democratic Republic having a residential embassy in Pretoria, while South Africa’s Ambassador to Algeria is accredited to the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic .

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Algeria

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Dr S P Rankhumise (Ms)

Also accredited to Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic.

South African Embassy

Algerian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr S Maandi
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Visa section of the Algerian Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

No health immunisation or vaccination certificates are required of travellers coming from South Africa to Algeria.

For further information go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Algiers is hot and humid in summer with the temperature going up to 40 degrees C from June to September, and cold in winter from October to May with temperatures varying between 6 and 19 degrees C.

For up to date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Algerian Dinar (AD). The currency is not freely convertible.

For current exchange, rates click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Algeria, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

The Presidency

Prime Ministry

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Ministry of Industry and Mines

Ministry of National Planning

Tourism and Craft Industry

National Agency of Investment Development and Algeria Press Service

History of Relations

South Africa and Angola signed an agreement on the mutual establishment of representative offices on 23 January 1992. An agreement establishing full diplomatic relations was entered into on 27 May 1994, which led to the upgrading of relations to the level of Embassy. Bilateral relations between South Africa and Angola are historic and have been formalised through the Joint Commission of Cooperation (JCC) Agreement, which was signed on 20 November 2000. The JCC between South Africa and Angola was then elevated to a Bi-National Commission during the State Visit by HE Mr João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço in 2017.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Angola

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Angolan Representation in South Africa

HE Mr R O F D C D S Xavier
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Angolan Embassy

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

Visa-free. For more information, please contact the Angolan Embassy.

Health Requirements

Angola is a high-risk malaria area, and it is recommended that the necessary prophylaxes and other precautionary measures be taken prior to departure. In addition, it is vital that the visitor maintains the prescribed prophylaxes regime upon return as well as constant monitoring of flu-related symptoms. Immunisation against hepatitis A and hepatitis B is highly recommended. Inoculation against yellow fever is required and a certificate to this effect has to be presented upon arrival. It is recommended that visitors acquire an adequate supply of prescribed medicine as it may not be freely available in Angola.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

In general, Angola, and especially Luanda, is very hot and humid. The summer season, which coincides with the rainy season, lasts from October to April.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Readjusted Kwanza. Due to severe currency fluctuations, it is recommended that either country’s Embassy be contacted for the latest rates of exchange.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

HE Mr João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço paid a State Visit to South Africa in 2017. Thirty-eight bilateral instruments/agreements were concluded during the State Visit.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Angola, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Bilateral diplomatic relations between South Africa and Antigua and Barbuda commenced with a Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations on 17 February 2004. South Africa’s interests in Antigua and Barbuda are represented on a non-residential basis by the South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Antigua and Barbuda

Representation accredited from Kingston, Jamaica

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Antigua and Barbuda Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations in New York.

Health Requirements

Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation.

For up-to-date weather information, click here

Currency Info

For up-to-date information, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

No structured bilateral relations are in place and no high-level visits have recently taken place.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Exports fall chiefly into the category of vehicles, aircraft, vessels and associated transport equipment. Imports are too negligible to be reflected in the official trade statistics.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Antigua and Barbuda, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Full diplomatic relations between South Africa and Argentina were re-established in August 1991. Since the establishment of democracy in South Africa in 1994, cooperation and interaction between the two countries have increased significantly. Argentina has an Embassy in Pretoria.

Bilateral relations between South Africa and Argentina remain sound and the various common ideals and objectives of the two governments provide a potential basis for enhanced bilateral relations as well as for cooperation at multilateral level.

Bilateral cooperation has expanded, with a large number of visits such as the official visit by former President Nelson Mandela to Argentina to attend the XIV Mercosur Heads of State Summit Meeting in July 1998, in Ushuaia, and by Mr Thabo Mbeki in his capacity as Deputy President in 1997. Several South African Cabinet ministers and deputy ministers have visited Argentina since 1996. South Africa and Argentina have also established a Joint Bi-national Commission and several meetings have been held in recent years. The then South African Minister of International Relations, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, visited Argentina in June 2018 for the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and the Argentine President, Mr Mauricio Macri, visited South Africa in July 2018 for the 10th BRICS Summit. President Cyril Ramphosa, together with former Minister of Finance, Mr Tito Mboweni, attended the G20 Leaders’ Summit from 30 November – 1 December 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Bilateral contacts in a number of different fields, most notably sports, tourism, science and technology, trade and agriculture, have greatly expanded during the past number of years and a number of bilateral agreements have been signed. Tourism is also on the increase between the two countries.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Argentine

HE Ms Z Makina
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Time difference with SA: -5 hours

Argentine Representation in South Africa

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Ms M A Vlek

Embassy of Argentina

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Argentine Embassy.

Travel Advisory on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries.

Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed.

It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Visa Requirements for Argentine citizens visiting South Africa

Holders of Argentinian passports do not need visas in respect of bona fide holiday and business visits to South Africa not exceeding 90 days and transits. Visits outside these categories do require visas.

It is advised that all visitors please verify visa requirements with the South African Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

For more information, contact any South African Embassy.

Health Requirements

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The Argentine climate ranges from subtropical in the north to sub-Antarctic in the south with generally moderate summer rainfall.

For up-to-date weather information, click here

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the New Peso Argentina.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and the Argentine Republic, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations since 1995.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Armenia

Non-residential accreditation from Kiev, Ukraine.

HE Mr A J Groenewald
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Armenia Representation in South Africa

No Representation

*Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary – HE Mr R Karapetian

*Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Armenia, with non-residence in Cairo.

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African citizens can apply for visas at Armenian embassies in the following countries:

Great Britain: 25 Cheniston Gardens, London W8 6TG; Tel: 431 522 7480; Fax: 522 74 81

France: 9 Rue Viete, 75017, Paris; Tel: 4212 9800; 4212 9802

Belgium: Rue Franz Merjay 157, 1050, Bruxelles; Tel: 346 5667; 344 9701

Switzerland: Avenue du mail 28, 1205 Geneve, Suisse; Tel: 223201100; 223202112

Germany: Viktoriastrasse 15, D-53173 Bonn; Tel: 228 9572625; 228 9572610

Egypt: Mohamed Mozhar 20 Cairo; Tel: 202 3424157; 202 342415

To issue a visa it takes:

1. Single, for 21 days – 7 USD
2. Single, for 120 days – 34 USD
3. Multiple for 60 days – 46 USD
4. Multiple for 120 days -92 USD
5. Transit, single for 3 days – 23 USD
6. Transit, multiple – 41 USD

Visas can be obtained through E-VISA system E-Visa Website: https://evisa.mfa.am/

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Website: https://www.mfa.am/en/visa

Visa requirements:

Tourist visa: a) valid passport; b) one filled-in form; c) one photograph (neither money deposits nor air tickets required).

A Business visa: all the above-mentioned documents, plus an invitation certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia is required.

Visas cannot be issued on arrival.

For more information, visit the website of the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Health Requirements

Immunisation against hepatitis A and hepatitis B is recommended for all Central European countries, including Armenia.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Moderate, mountainous. Average winter temperature: -5 C, summer: from + 25 C.

For up-to-date weather information. click here.

Currency Info

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

The overall trade between South Africa and Armenia totalled US$3,983,84 for 2022 according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Armenia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Australia established diplomatic relations in 1947. As campaigns for international isolation of South Africa intensified in the 1970s and 1980s, successive Australian governments placed Australia firmly in the anti-apartheid camp, supporting United Nations resolutions against apartheid and implementing the oil, trade and arms embargos as well as sport boycott against South Africa.

After the inauguration of the first democratically elected Government of South Africa in May 1994, relations were normalised and excellent relations are currently enjoyed under the auspices of the biennial Senior Officials’ Meeting between South Africa and Australia.

At present, South Africa and Australia enjoy close political and economic ties spanning trade, education, the arts, science and tourism, not to mention the friendly rivalry on the sporting field.

South Africa is Australia’s partner in important fora such as the G20 and Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), as well as our co-host of the ground-breaking Square Kilometre Array telescope. The two countries share an interest in a peaceful and prosperous region and are committed to working with the countries of southern Africa as partners.

For more on Australian political history and issues, go to the National Library of Australia.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Australia

Vacant
High Commissioner

South African High Commission

Australian Representation in South Africa

HE Ms T E Brink
High Commissioner

Australian High Commission

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African travellers to Australia need visas to enter the country. For more information, contact the Australian High Commission in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

If a visitor, during the six days before arriving in Australia, has visited a country declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to be infected with yellow fever, a yellow fever vaccination certificate will be required.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Australians have been urged not to travel internationally until they are fully vaccinated. Should a traveller not be fully vaccinated, he / she should follow the CDC’s recommendations for unvaccinated people.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Strict quarantine is applied to prevent the entry into Australia of exotic pests, diseases and weed seeds that could affect plant, animal and human health and the environment. Fines of more than A$100 can be issued on the spot if visitors do not declare items of quarantine concern.

Climate Info

There are generally no great extremes of climate, but it is varied because of the size of the continent. The summer temperature range is from 23-26 degrees Celsius north of the tropic of Capricorn to 38 degrees Celsius in the arid plateaus and deserts of the interior. The southern areas are more temperate although subject to wide variations – high rainfall, extreme heat and irregular flooding and drought. Australia is considered to be one of the driest continents on Earth.

For further information on Australia’s topography and climate, go to AUSLIG – Australia’s National Mapping Agency.

For up-to-date weather information, go to CNN.com – Weather or Weather Underground.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Australian Dollar consisting of 100 cents. The coins are: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2.

Notes are: $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

South Africa and Australia come together biennially to discuss the status of their bilateral and multilateral relations with one another. This is done through the Senior Officials’ Meeting, i.e., the mechanism by which relations are monitored. South Africa and Australia also hold biennial trade and investment consultations to monitor and encourage economic relations with one another.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South African products and commodities exported to Australia are concentrated in the following sectors: vehicles, base metals and articles of base metal, chemical products, wood pulp, machinery and mechanical appliances, minerals and animal products.

South African imports of Australian products and commodities are mostly from the following sectors: chemical products, base metals and articles of metal machinery and mechanical appliances, mineral products, vegetable products and leather.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Australia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

SOUTH AFRICAN FRIENDSHIP GROUPS/CLUBS IN AUSTRALIA

AUSTRALIA/AFRICA PARLIAMENTARY FRIENDSHIP GROUP

Chair: The Hon Bruce Baird, MP
Parliament House, Canberra
Tel: +61 2 6277 7111

NEW SOUTH WALES PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION

President: The Hon Dr Meredith Burgmann
Legislative Council
Parliament House, Macquarie Street, SYDNEY, NWS 2000
Tel: +61 2 9230 2300, Mobile: +61 418 240 763
Fax: +61 2 9320 3316,

SYDNEY-SOUTH AFRICA FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION

Ms Jane Harris / Mr David Thomas
Tel: +61 2 9516 3828, Fax: +61 2 9810 2584

SOUTH AFRICAN FRIENDSHIP GROUP (Sydney)

Mr Lloyd Martin & Mrs Doris Martin
Tel: +61 2 9791 0900, Fax: +61 2 9791 0917 / 9608 0415

SOUTH AFRICAN AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION

4 Radovic Court
Cranbourne, Melbourne 3977
Secretary: Jeanet Wentzel
Tel: +61 3 5996 9474

SOUTH AFRICAN CULTURAL ASSOCIATION

Dr J Sadhai
C/- Scott Street Medical Centre
33 Scott Street, MELTON VIC 3337
Tel: +61 3 9743 1970, Fax: +61 3 9743 4910

AUSTRALIA SOUTH AFRICA BUSINESS COUNCIL (ASABC)

ASABC National Secretariat

National Chairperson: Clive Cooke
Tel: +61 7 3369 3900, Fax: +61 7 3367 2862
E-mail: cacooke@protea.net.au

NEW SOUTH WALES Secretariat

Secretary: Andrea Kroser
P O Box R867
Royal Sydney Exchange
Sydney, NSW 1225, Australia
Tel: +61 2 9233 2133, Fax: +61 2 9233 2155
E-mail: asabc@matra.com.au

QUEENSLAND Secretariat

Secretary: Greg Young
MacGillivray’s Solicitors
GPO Box 1236, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3220 0496, Fax: +61 7 3221 0469
E-mail: asabc@webexpress.net.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Secretariat

Secretary: Graham Sutton
198 Greenhil Road, Eastwood, SA 5063, Australia
Tel: +61 8 8406 1662, Fax: +61 8 8221 5543
E-mail: sutton.graham@saugov.sa.gov.au

VICTORIA Secretariat

Secretary: John Larcombe
Livel 10, 459 Little Collin Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
Tel: +61 3 9642 1021, Tel: +61 3 9642 8182
E-mail: mcbn@ocean.com.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Secretariat

Secretary: Anton Trichardt
Mallesons Stephen Trichardt
P O Box 4019, Wembley, WA 6014, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9269 7000, Fax: +61 8 9269 7999
E-mail: busco@wantree.com.au

TASMANIA

Secretary: Michael Turner
SVP Industries
Main Road, George Town, Tasmania, 7253, Australia
Tel: +61 3 6382 1844, Fax: +61 3 6382 3011
E-mail: svpind@tassie.net.au

ACT

Secretary: Andrew Goodlace

INTEC Australia

Ground Floor, 55 Blackall Street, Barton, ACT 2600, Australia
Tel: +61 2 6273 7333, Fax: +61 2 6273 7300
E-mail: andrew.goodlace@intec.co.za

NORTHERN TERRITORY: ASABC

Secretary: Chris Delaney
Mobile: +61 (0)411 753 239, E-mail: kim.int@octa4.net.au

History of Relations

Bilateral relations between Austria and South Africa date back to the 19th century when Austria opened a consulate in Cape Town in 1852. In 1962, diplomatic relations were established at ambassadorial level. The Austrian Embassy in Pretoria, which was opened during the same year, is supported by honorary consulates in Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth. Since 1994, bilateral relations between South Africa and Austria have been cordial

The main vehicle for promoting relations between South Africa and Austria is the Bilateral Consultations Mechanism. The Third Meeting of the South Africa-Austria Bilateral Consultations took place on 7 June 2022 when Deputy Minister Alvin Botes hosted Mr Peter Launsky, the Secretary-General of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs in Pretoria.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Austria

HE Mr R S Molekane
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Austrian Representation in South Africa

HE Ms R Königsbrun
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Austria

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Embassy of Austria in Pretoria or visit the website of the Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Health Requirements

Proof of a medical insurance must be produced prior to departure from South Africa.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate varies sharply (from + 35 degrees Celsius in summer to -20 degrees Celsius in winter), owing to great differences in elevation. The main annual temperature is between 7 degrees Celsius and 9 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Euro, abbreviated to EUR. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

South Africa is positioned as Austria’s main trade and investment partner in Africa. Almost a quarter of Austria’s exports to Africa is destined for the South African market, with 30% of all imports from Africa to Austria originating from South Africa.

In the period January to November 2021, bilateral trade between South Africa and Austria amounted to Euro 1324.0 million, representing an increase of 49.5% compared to the same period in 2020. South African exports amounted to Euro 791.9 million, an increase of 65.3% and Austrian exports amounted to Euro 550.1 million, an increase of 31.5% compared to the same period in 2020, attesting to the dynamic and evolving trade relationship.

Iron ore remains the biggest South African export product to Austria (representing 61.8% of total South African exports to Austria in the period from January to November 2021). Main South African exports in 2021 were iron ore, passenger vehicles, vehicles for transport of goods for special purposes, fruits and nuts and pig iron. Main South African imports in 2021 were internal combustion piston engines, beverages (non-alcoholic), medicaments, paper and paperboard, and mechanical handling equipment.

With the Austrian economy poised for 3% to 4% growth in the period 2022 to 2026, placing the country on a strong growth trajectory, viable opportunities exist for promoting higher level of trade and investment between Austria and South Africa in the areas of the green economy, including waste economy, water sanitation, renewable energy and energy efficiency, manufacturing, infrastructure, resource-based economy (agriculture and agro-processing) and health (pharmaceuticals and specialised healthcare products).

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Austria, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Investment information

South African total direct investment in Austria in 2019 (latest information available from the SA Reserve Bank) amounted to R54 774 million while Austrian direct investment to South Africa in 2020 amounted to Euro 230 million, a decrease of 29.6% compared to 2019.

Mondi (Head Office in Vienna is responsible for the rest of the world, excluding Africa) has invested US$250 million in the Austrian paper and pulp sector, including shares in Austria’s largest private company Patria Paper. In 2014, Mondi invested a further Euro 24 million in its plant in Frantschach, Carinthia. Sappi Ltd. owns a paper mill in Gratkorn, Styria. Sasol Wax GmbH has a small plant in Linz, Upper Austria. In 2014, Dimension Data SA (a subsidiary of the Japanese company NTT Group) acquired 100% of the NextiraOne Austria

There are 41 Austrian companies with representative offices in South Africa. Among the top investors are Voestalpine, Alpla, Constantia Flexibles, Benteler International, DOKA, Efkon/Strabag, Plasser & Theurer, Tyrolit, Andritz and Agrana. Collectively, these investments have made an invaluable contribution to job creation and skills and technology transfer in South Africa.

Tourism Information

Statistics from the South African Tourism demonstrate the positive trend:

Austrians visiting South Africa:

Year      Number of persons

2019     30 376 persons

2020     9 463 persons

2021     3 365 persons

The latest tourism statistics show the impact of COVID-19 on the flow of tourists. Tourism numbers have since started to improve and 5 278 Austrian tourists visited South Africa over the 12 months to the end of February 2022.

According to the Austrian Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs, there are currently 10 000 Austrians living in South Africa. On 1 January 2022, there were 966 (preliminary figures) (2021: 862) South Africans living in Austria.

Development Assistance

South Africa is seen as being an integral part of the priority region of southern Africa and has been a partner country of the Austrian Development Cooperation since 1999. Over the years, the programmes mainly focussed on education, civil society, combatting poverty, respect of human rights, and good governance. However, the bilateral budget line was terminated in 2010. Numerous Austrian NGOs still undertake projects within the region of South Africa.

Austria’s focus within the southern African region lies in the areas of good governance, human rights, vocational training and renewable energy (including the strengthening of Southern African Development Community’s [SADC] capacities in the field of renewable energy, the establishment of the SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, SolTrain – a project aiming to foster the use of solar thermal equipment, loans for SMEs for renewable energy projects, the Austrian Solar Academy and the Austrian Welding Academy).

Austria contributes to the Energy and Environment Partnership Programme of Southern Africa. Together with the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Austrian Development Agency has promoted the development of solar energy in southern Africa. Austria is also assisting the SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Sufficiency to build the capacity of southern African countries to develop renewable energy capacity and technology.

The Austrian Development Agency still funds projects in South Africa, however, only when it is an Austrian company with a developmental project such as Böhler-Uddeholm, which established a welding academy and SEG Solar Energy that provides training to installers of solar systems. The Austrian Development Bank has so far only provided a loan to First Rand Bank on the basis that the funds are used for energy efficiency.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Austria, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Trade Commission
Austrian Trade Commission
Tel: 011 442 7100

General Background

Austria lies in Central Europe, bordered by Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west, the Federal Republic of Germany to the north, the Czech Republic and Slovakia to the north and north-east respectively, Hungary to the east and Italy and Slovenia to the south. The climate varies sharply (from + 38 degrees C in summer to -15 degrees Celsius in winter), owing to great differences in elevation. Austria has 47% of its total area accounted for by forests.

The capital is Vienna (Wien) with1.7 million inhabitants and is considered as one of the nine provinces. The provinces are Vienna, Tyrol (Tirol – 706 837 inhabitants), Lower Austria (Niederösterreich – 1 607 976), Upper Austria (Oberösterreich – 1 411 238), Burgenland (283 965), Salzburg (529 861), Styria (Steiermark – 1 208 372), Vorarlberg (368 868) and Carinthia (Kärnten – 559 315).

The Austrian Federal President is the ceremonial head of state. The President is elected for a six-year term. The President is elected directly. Among his duties are the signing of treaties, the swearing in of the government members and provincial governors and the verification of laws passed by Parliament. He is also Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The President has the power to dismiss the government and dissolve parliament, although these powers have not been used since World War II.

The current President, Dr Alexander Van der Bellen, was elected on 26 January 2017 and re-elected for his second six-year term in October 2022.

National Government

The Cabinet (Ministerrat) is headed by the Federal Chancellor (Bundeskanzler), who is appointed by the President. The current Austrian Chancellor is Mr Karl Nehammer (ÖVP). Austria is currently governed by a coalition between the Austrian Peoples Party (ÖVP) and the Greens.

State Legislatures

Each province is administered by its own government, headed by a governor elected by the provincial parliament. Each province also has the right to protest to the constitutional court if it believes that any federal legislation encroaches on its authority. Each of the provinces has its own constitution. The provinces have autonomy in affairs such as nature conservation, building and hunting regulations, certain aspects of education, land ownership, tourism, etc.

Austria is currently governed by a coalition between the centre-right conservative Austrian Peoples Party (ÖVP) of Chancellor Karl Nehammer and centre-left Greens, led by Vice Chancellor Werner Kogler. The Greens are the junior partner, after attracting 14% of the vote, while the conservatives won 37%. Austria´s current coalition government was sworn in by Federal President Van der Bellen on 7 January 2020. The next national elections will take place in 2024. The negotiations that gave rise to the government coalition arrangement served to deliver the most comprehensive climate protection programme that Austria has ever seen. There were also improvements in terms of freedom of information, transparency, and audit rights of the Court of Justice and policies pertaining to migration and asylum.

History of Relations

South Africa and Azerbaijan first established relations in 1992. The Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye, is accredited on a non-residential basis.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Azerbaijan

There is no South African representation in Azerbaijan, but the South African Ambassador to Ankara, Türkiye is accredited to Baku on a non-resident basis.

HE Ms B D Letsatsi-Duba
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Azerbaijan Representation in South Africa

Chargé d Affaires a.i.
Mr Z Shukurov

Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, visit the website of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Washington DC or contact:

The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Cemar Nadir Sok. No 20 Celikier Apt.
Cankaya
Ankara
Tel: 0990 441 26 20/2
Fax: 0990 441 26 00

Health Requirements

No information.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Visit www.usacc.org

For up-to-date information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Azerbaijan Manat.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Azerbaijan, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and the Bahamas established diplomatic relations on 28 July 1994. South Africa’s non-resident High Commissioner, Ms T Luthuli-Gcabashe, presented her credentials in Nassau on 7 April 1999. Bilateral relations reverted to the South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica, when High Commissioner T H Chiliza presented his credentials to the Governor General of the Commonwealth of Bahamas on 14 June 2001. Presently, South Africa’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, Ms LE Yengeni, is accredited to the Bahamas.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Bahamas

The South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica is responsible for the Bahamas:

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Time difference: -7 hours

Bahamas Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, visit the Island of the Bahamas website.

Health Requirements

Tetanus – immunisation recommended.

Travellers to the Bahamas need to familiarise themselves with COVID-19 screening and testing requirements when visiting the country.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical marine; moderated by warm waters of the Gulf Stream.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

For up-to-date information, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

Exports fall chiefly into the prepared foodstuffs and chemicals categories. Imports fall chiefly into the category of prepared foodstuffs, beverages, spirits and vinegar, tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Bahamas, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Bahrain concluded diplomatic relations in 1993 and a South African Embassy was opened in Manama in November 1993. With the establishment of a South African Embassy in Saudi Arabia in 1996, the Embassy in Bahrain’s responsibilities were taken over by the latter

South Africa’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia is accredited to Bahrain on a non-resident basis.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Bahrain

There is no South African representation in Bahrain, but the South African Ambassador to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is accredited to Manama on a non-resident basis.

HE Mr M D Magabe
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Bahrain Representation in South Africa

Bahrain has no representation in South Africa.

Travel

Visa requirements for South Africans

Information regarding visas to Bahrain can be found at www.bahrain.gov.bh.

Health Requirements

There are no specific health requirements for travellers from South Africa.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Bahrain is very hot and humid during summer with temperatures sometimes in excess of 50C. Winter months from December to March are moderate.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Bahraini Dinar, divided into 1 000 Fils. The symbol for the Dinar is BD. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa’s main exports to Bahrain are machinery and mechanical appliances, as well as textiles. Bahrain’s main exports to South Africa are base metals and electronic equipment.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Bahrain, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

General

The Kingdom of Bahrain offers a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western culture – it is modern and cosmopolitan with large shopping malls and high-rise buildings, but also traditional in some parts where ancient traditions and historical sites are predominant.

As an Islamic country, visitors are reminded to respect the culture and religion accordingly.

Bahrain is also home to a relatively large South African expatriate community.

The Bahraini work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

During summer vacations (June to September), the holy month of Ramadan and Hajj, most government and business activities in Bahrain slow down. Potential business visitors to Bahrain should consult with the South African Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, regarding the most suitable time to plan a visit.

History of Relations

Relations between Bangladesh and South Africa were initiated during former President Nelson Mandela’s inauguration in 1994. On 10 September 1994, formal diplomatic relations were established between the Government of the Republic of South Africa and the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Bangladesh has a resident High Commission in Pretoria while South Africa’s High Commissioner in New Delhi, India, is non residentially accredited to Bangladesh.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Bangladesh

The South African High Commission in New Delhi, India, is accredited to Bangladesh.

HE Prof. A Sooklal
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Honorary Consulate of the Republic of South Africa in Chittagong

Mr Mohammed Solaiman Alam Seth, Mr 2293/A, Zakir Hossain Road, East Nasirabad, Khulshi, Chittagong 4225, Bangladesh
Tel: +8803-652225
Tel: +8803-652226
Fax: +8803-652226

Bangladesh Representation in South Africa

HE Mr Shah Ahmed Shafi
High Commissioner

The High Commission of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African nationals require visas to visit Bangladesh. For more information, contact the High Commission for the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in Pretoria.

High Commission for the People’s Republic of Bangladesh
410 Farenden Street
Sunnyside
Pretoria

Tel: 012 343 2105
Fax: 012 343 5222
E-mail: mission.pretoria@mofa.gov.bd

Health Requirements

For information on health requirements for travel to Bangladesh, contact the High Commission of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Bangladesh has a tropical climate and is hot and humid in summer (March to June) and there is routine flooding. During the monsoon (June to October), Bangladesh is cool and rainy. Winters in Bangladesh can be cool and dry (October to March).

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Taka (Tk).

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Former South African President Mandela visited Bangladesh from 25 to 27 March 1997 to attend the Silver Jubilee Celebration of Bangladesh’s Independence. During the visit, a Declaration of Intent was signed, expressing the resolve of both countries to explore all possible avenues to expand and deepen the extent of political and economic cooperation between Bangladesh and South Africa. A number of high-level visits as well as study visits between the two countries have since been exchanged to promote bilateral relations and strengthen political, economic and socio-economic cooperation.

Ms Nomaindiya Mfeketo, former Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, undertook a Working Visit to Bangladesh in August 2015.

Dr AK Abdul Momen, the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh, undertook a Working Visit to South Africa in August 2021, and Dr Naledi Pandor, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, undertook a reciprocal Working Visit to Bangladesh in November 2021 to participate in Bangladesh’s Golden Jubilee Independence celebrations and the celebration of the Centenary Birth Anniversary of the founding father of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, undertook a Working Visit to Bangladesh in November 2022, and Mr M Shahriar Alam, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, visited South Africa in February 2023.

South Africa and Bangladesh have a structured bilateral mechanism in the form of a Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM). SOM meetings are scheduled to take place on rotational basis. The Fifth SOM took place on 3 September 2019 in Dhaka. The next SOM is scheduled to be hosted by South Africa in 2023.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

South Africa’s main export items to Bangladesh in 2022 included vegetables, mineral products, iron and steel products and chemicals.

South Africa’s main import items from Bangladesh include clothing textiles, footwear, chemicals and raw hides and leather.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Bangladesh, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Barbados established diplomatic relations on 4 January 1994.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Barbados

The South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica, is responsible for Barbados:

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Barbados Representation in South Africa

HE Mr P P K Simmons
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Barbados, with non-residence in London.

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the High Commission of Barbados in London, United Kingdom.

Health Requirements

Travellers to Barbados need to familiarise themselves with COVID screening and testing requirements when visiting the country.

Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical marine; rainy season from June to October.

For up-to-date weather information, click here

Currency Info

Barbadian Dollar (Bds$).

For up-to-date information, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

South Africa’s High Commissioner, Ms XN Ngwevela, paid an Official Visit to Barbados from 3 to 5 May 2018 to strengthen bilateral political and economic relations and to promote the African Agenda.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Barbados, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations between South Africa and Belarus were established in March 1993. Belarus opened its Embassy in South Africa in January 2000. Currently, the South African Ambassador to the Russian Federation is the non-residential Ambassador to the Republic of Belarus. Belarus opened its Embassy in South Africa in January 2000 and the first South African Ambassador presented credentials in February 2000.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Belarus

Representation accredited from Moscow, Russia.

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Honorary Consul – Vacant

South African Embassy

Belarus Representation in South Africa

HE Mr I G Bely
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Belarus

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Embassy of Belarus in Pretoria or visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus.

Health Requirements

No medical restrictions are in effect.

Common colds, bronchial ailments, sinusitis and intestinal flu are common, especially in winter and it is advisable to bring along a supply of over-the-counter medicines for these minor illnesses.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Belarus has a moderate to cold continental climate, with average temperatures from -6 degrees Celsius in January to +18 degrees Celsius in June. The country has large lowlands, small hills and a number of lakes.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Belarussian Rouble (BLR). It can be divided into 100 Kopeks. Kopeks are not in circulation.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Belarus, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa

History of Relations

Bilateral relations between South Africa and Belgium are cordial and based on a shared commitment to the values of freedom, democracy and a similar approach to a broad range of international issues, specifically peace and security.

The parties’ diplomatic engagement is executed within the ambit of the Bilateral Joint Commission of Cooperation (JCC), which was signed in November 2004 during an Official Visit to Belgium by former President Thabo Mbeki. The JCC has afforded both sides an opportunity to count on considerable interest, which has significantly contributed to reinforcing political and economic ties.

Belgium regards South Africa as an important partner with which it works towards peace, security and democracy in Africa.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Belgium

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy to the Kingdom of Belgium, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Mission to the European Union.

Belgium Representation in South Africa

HE Mr P A J Jansen
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Pretoria Embassy

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Embassy of Belgium in Pretoria or visit the web site of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Health Requirements

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

A temperate climate with an average of almost 210 days of rain per year.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Euro (EUR).

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Despite various high-level interactions between the principals on the margins of multilateral fora, there have not been many high-level visits to and from South Africa. Former President Jacob Zuma paid an Official Visit to Belgium in 2010. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Didier Reynders, visited South Africa, in September 2018 for a bilateral engagement with the former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

Belgium ranks sixth in the world in terms of foreign direct investment in South Africa with R285,7 billion (2017), focussing on mining, green energy, ports, logistics and agriculture, among others (Source: Reserve Bank). South Africa’s exports to Belgium amounted to R27 444 137 851 and imports amounted to R11 627 787 065 (Source: SARS).

In turn, South Africa has invested about R1,8 billion (March 2020) in Belgium. South African companies operating in Belgium include Sappi, The Aeroplane Factory (90% owned by Sonaca), Bidvest, ECHO Group and Mondi Group, among others.

Belgium is also one of the leading sources of inbound tourism from Europe, with 57 232 Belgian tourists visiting South Africa during 2019. In 2020, South Africa received 54 233 Belgian tourists, but this number declined to 43 862 by the end of February 2021.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Belgium, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Federation of Belgian Industry (FBI)
Ravensteinstraat 4
1000 BRUSSELS
Tel: 02/515 08 11
Fax: 02/515 09 99

(FBI is a founding member of the UNICE at European level and a member of the BIAC at OECD level)

VEV (Vlaams Ekonomisch Verbond)
Afgevaardigd Beheerder
Brouwersvliet 5 Bus 4
Tel: 03/231 1660
Fax: 03/233 76 60

National Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Belgium
Chairperson
Avenue des Arts 1-2
1040 BRUSSELS
Tel: 02/217 36 71
Fax: 02/217 46 34

Belgian Foreign Trade Office
General Manager
WTC Tower 1
Boulevard Emile Jacqmain 162 box 36
1210 BRUSSELS
Tel: 02/206 35 11
Fax: 02/203 18 12

Flemish Foreign Trade Board
Director-General
Koningstraat 80
1000 BRUSSELS
Tel: 02/504 87 11
Fax: 02/504 88 99

Dare-Awex (French-speaking Foreign Trade Board)
Area Coordinator
Avenue des Arts 13-14
1040 BRUSSELS
Tel: 02/211 55 11
Fax: 02/211 55 70

Fabrimental
Director of International Relations Department
Rue des Drapiers 21
1050 BRUSSELS
Tel: 02/510 24 67
Fax: 02/510 25 64

History of Relations

South Africa and Belize established diplomatic relations on 14 May 1997. Ms T Luthuli-Gcabashe, South Africa’s first non-resident High Commissioner to Belize, presented her credentials on 7 June 1999 in Belmopan. HE High Commissioner Chiliza presented his credentials to the Governor General of Belize on 18 September 2001. At the same time, High Commissioner Chiliza met with Prime Minister Said Musa, the Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs and the Secretary-General of Caricom.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Belize

The South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica is responsible for Belize:

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Time difference: -7 hours

Belize Representation in South Africa

No representation

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, visit the web site of the Belize Tourism Board.

Health Requirements

Yellow fever certificate is required if coming from an endemic area.

Malaria – high risk if travelling beyond the cities.

Tetanus – immunisation recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical; very hot and humid; rainy season from May to February.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

For up-to-date information, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties. please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Exports fall chiefly into the categories of vehicles, aircraft, vessels and associated transport equipment and chemical products. (Imports are too negligible to be reflected in the official trade statistics.)

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Belize, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Benin established formal diplomatic relations on 19 May 1994. Benin opened its Embassy in Pretoria in January 1999. However, the Embassy of Benin in South Africa was closed on 30 July 2020.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Benin

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Benin Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South Africa and Benin have an arrangement that allows its nationals to enjoy a 30-day free visa entry to each country.

For more information, contact the Embassy of South Africa in Cotonou, Benin.

Health Requirements

A valid international health certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever only is required. Vaccination against hepatitis A and B, tetanus and polio is recommended. There is also a high malaria risk. Furthermore, all passengers arriving and departing Benin has to undergo the COVID-19 test at their own cost.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

In the south: four seasons. Long rainy season from April to July. Short dry season from August to September. Short rainy season from October to November. Long dry season from December to March.

In the north: Dry season from November to early May. Rainy season from May to October.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the CFA Franc.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Language

The official language is French while local languages are also spoken.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Benin, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa maintains full diplomatic relations with the Republic of Bolivia.

Diplomatic representation

South African Representation in Bolivia

No Representation

Time difference with South Africa:
-7 hours

Bolivia Representation in South Africa

Honorary Consul – Vacant

Honorary Consulate of Bolivia

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Directorate: Mexico, Central America and the Andean Community desk of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, South African laws and constitutional rights do not protect you. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Health Requirements

For up-to-date information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

For up-to-date weather information, click here

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Bolivianos (BOB).

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Bolivia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa formally recognised the independence of Bosnia and Herzegovina on 23 March 1995.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Bosnia

The South African Embassy in Athens, Hellenic Republic (Greece), is accredited to Bosnia and Herzegovina on a non-residential basis.

HE Dr L G Msengana-Ndlela
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Bosnia Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Health Requirements

No official requirements – travellers are nevertheless advised to double check with the local Department of Health before departure.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Hot summers and cold winters; areas of high elevation have short, cool summers and long, severe winters; mild rainy winters along the coast.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Bosnia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Relations between South Africa and Botswana were formalised with the establishment of representative offices in both countries in 1992. The upgrading of relations to full diplomatic level came into force on 22 June 1994. The respective missions became high commissions upon South Africa’s return to the Commonwealth.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Botswana

HE Ms T P Shope-Soumah
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Botswana Representation in South Africa

HE Dr S M Monageng
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

High Commission of Botswana

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact Botswana High Commission in South Africa or visit the website of Botswana Tourism.

Health Requirements

Malaria is present in certain areas such as the Okavango swamps.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Botswana has hot summers with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees. Winters are moderate, but temperatures can fall to zero degrees at night.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is Pula. which is divided into 100 thebes. The symbol for Pula is P.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Botswana is a member of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), which allows for a free flow of trade between the two countries. No bilateral trade figures are recorded between the two countries, as trade figures are recorded in terms of the combined imports by one country from all other SACU countries.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Botswana, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Formal diplomatic relations between South Africa and Brazil were established in 1948 through the Agreement on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations. Since 1994, relations between the two countries have blossomed. South Africa continues to enjoy cordial relations with Brazil premised on the principles of solidarity and development cooperation.

Since 1994, there has been a number of high-level interactions between South Africa and Brazil. The year 2020 marked the anniversary of the Declaration on the Establishment of a Strategic Partnership between the Federative Republic of Brazil and the Republic of South Africa. South Africa remains commitment to strengthening relations with Brazil. Furthermore, South Africa considers Brazil as an important partner in achieving South-South cooperation.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Brazil 

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

South African Embassy: Brasilia

South African Consulate General: São Paulo

Ms G T Kumalo
Consul General of South Africa to the Federative Republic of Brazil

Time difference with South Africa:
– 5 hours (Winter – October – February)
– 4 hours (Summer – March – September)

Brazil Representation in South Africa

HE Mr B Fonseca Filho
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Brazil

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

None for ordinary South African passport holders for up to 90 days. For more information, contact the Embassy of the Federative Republic of Brazil or visit their website.

Visa Requirements for Brazilian citizens visiting South Africa

For more information, contact the South African Embassy.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Health Requirements

Medical facilities are available, but expensive. English-speaking doctors and dentists are available.

A yellow fever certificate is required for pax travelling to the following areas: Acre, Amazonas Amapa, Distrito Federal, Goias, Maranhao, Mato Grosso. Mato Gross do Sol, Para, Rondonia, Tocantins and Roraima.

A yellow fever certificate is required by South African authorities for pax returning from South American countries.

Children up to the age of six years must be vaccinated against polio.

Malaria risk outside of urban areas/coastal areas from Rio to Recife – no malaria.

Hepatitis B – immunisation recommended for pax travelling in the Amazon.

Tetanus – immunisation recommended if more than two years have elapsed since last inoculation.

For further information. go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Brazil’s climate is similar to South Africa, but extremely dry (low humidity) during the winter months (June/July). During the summer months (January/February), temperatures can go up to 40 degrees C in the Rio de Janeiro area.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Real (R$) – plural = Reais.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Brazil, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Relations between South Africa and Brunei Darussalam are cordial. Full diplomatic relations between South Africa and Brunei Darussalam were established in October 1996. South Africa is represented on a non-residential basis by the South African High Commissioner in Malaysia. Brunei Darussalam does not have a High Commission in South Africa; the nearest being the Embassy in Egypt. The Brunei Darussalam High Commissioner: Singapore is accredited to South Africa on a non-residential basis.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Brunei Darussalam

South African High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Vacant
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

 Brunei Darussalam Representation in South Africa

High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Brunei Darussalam with residence in Singapore, also accredited to South Africa.

NEAREST REPRESENTATION

H E Mr Pengiran Haji Mustapa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Brunei Darussalam to Egypt, Cairo.

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, visit the web site of the Government of Brunei Darussalam or contact the Embassy.

325 Tanglin Road

Singapore 247955

Singapore

Tel: (+65) 6733 9055 / (+65) 6733 0664

Fax: (+65) 6737 5275 / (+65) 6737 4928

Health Requirements

Depending on the length of stay, travellers might need immunisation against hepatitis A and B.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Brunei Darussalam has a tropical climate, characterised by constant humidity and heavy rainfall. Temperatures are high throughout the year with an extreme annual range of 24C to 35C. Relative humidity is also high with an average fluctuation between 67% to 91% throughout the year.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The unit of currency is the Brunei Dollar (B$), which is divided into 100 cents. Notes are issued in denominations of B$1, B$10, B$50, B$100, B$1,000 and B$10,000. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Please contact Branch: Asia and Middle East at DIRCO.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Brunei Darussalam visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Interest offices between South Africa and Bulgaria were opened initially in November 1990 and full diplomatic relations were established on 2 February 1992.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Bulgaria

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Ms R Vos

South African Embassy

Bulgaria Representation in South Africa

HE Ms M P Tzotzorkova-Kaymaktchieva
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Bulgarian Embassy in Pretoria or visit the website of Travel Bulgaria.

Health Requirements

No official requirements – travellers are nevertheless advised to double check requirements and recommendations with the local Department of Health before departure.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate is moderate continental, mild and suitable for travel during any season. January is the coldest month with an average temperature around 0 degrees Celsius. Summer temperatures rarely exceeds 26 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

Lev (1 Lev = 100 Stotinki). Money is freely exchangeable at banks and licensed foreign-exchange offices.

For current exchange rates click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Bulgaria, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Burkina Faso established non-resident diplomatic relations in May 1995. The Burkina Faso non-resident Ambassador for South Africa is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Burkina Faso

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Mr T C Milubi

South African Embassy

Burkina Faso Representation in South Africa

Vacant
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Burkina Faso Embassy

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

A visa is required for all South African passport holders travelling to Burkina Faso. For more information on costs and requirements, please contact the Embassy of Burkina Faso in Pretoria:

Address:

767 Justice Mohamed Street
P O Box 13710
Hatfield
Pretoria
0028
South Africa

Telephone · (+27) 12 346 2704/ 12 346 6205

Fax · (+27) 12 346 6003

E-mail: ambabfpretoria07@gmail.com

Visa Requirements for Burkinabe travelling to South Africa

A visa is required for all Burkinabe passport holders travelling to South Africa. For more information on costs and requirements, please contact the Embassy of South Africa in Ouagadougou.

Address:

Pascal Zagre – Ouaga2000
Rue de badnogo – Villa N 149; 12BP:296
Ouagadougou 12
Burkina Faso

Telephone · (+226) 25 37 60 98

Fax · (+226) 25 37 60 97

Email: saemb.ouaga@dirco.gov.za*

Office Hours

Monday to Thursday:  08h00 – 17h00
Friday: 08h00 – 13h00

Health requirements

A valid international health certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever is compulsory and required for entry into Burkina Faso.

It should be noted that malaria is high-risk all year round in Burkina Faso.

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Burkina Faso: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR),Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Please check for updated COVID-19 entry requirements into Burkina Faso with the Burkinabe Embassy in Pretoria.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

Due to its geographical position, Burkina Faso is characterised by a dry tropical climate, which alternates between a short rainy season and a long dry season. Burkina Faso’s climate is prone to strong seasonal rains and annual variation due to its location in the hinterland and within the confines of the Sahara. In the dry season, the harmattan – a hot dry wind from the Sahara – blows. The rainy season lasts approximately four months, May/June to September, and is shorter in the north of the country.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

The people of Burkina Faso use the West African CFA Franc, known colloquially as the Franc.

For current exchange rates information, click here.

Language

French is the official language, although it is not widely spoken. Moore, the language of the Mossi, is spoken by a great majority of the population, and Dyula is widely used in commerce.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Burkina Faso, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Burundi established diplomatic relations on 23 June 1995.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Burundi

HE Mr M S Bungane
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Burundi Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A Bukuru
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Republic of Burundi

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Burundi Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

Yellow fever vaccination and malaria prophylaxis are recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Burundi lies on the western escapement of the high African plateau, 1 400 to 1 800 m above sea level, though there are elevations over 2 000 m in the west. The land slopes more gently towards the east. Annual rainfall is plentiful (800 to 1 400 mm) and comparatively reliable. The vegetation is generally moist savanna with grassland covering the higher-lying parts. Average temperature in the higher parts is 20 degrees C and 23 degrees C in the lower areas.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Burundi Franc (FB), divided into 100 centimes. The currency is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Burundi, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations with South Africa were established in January 1995. The late Ambassador GQM Doidge presented a letter of credence to His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneat Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, on 15 January 2018. Cambodia has non-resident representation in South Africa.

Diplomatic Representation

The Embassy of South Africa in Bangkok, Thailand, is accredited to Cambodia.

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Ms T Dlamini

South African Embassy

Cambodia Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Travel Info

Tourist and visa information can be obtained from the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism website:  https://tourismcambodia.org/

International airport tax is USD25 and USD6 for domestic airport tax. The airport taxes have to be paid in cash at the airport. Travellers who exit Cambodia by land border, do not require to pay any departure tax. This is not included in the price of the air ticket.

South African nationals visiting Cambodia are advised to maintain a high level of personal security at all times.

Visitors are advised not to stray off main routes in rural areas, including around temple complexes in the north and northwest of the country.

The possession of even small amounts of illegal narcotic substances is illegal and heavily punished in Cambodia.

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African citizens are eligible for an electronic visa when they travel to Cambodia. The eVisa is only valid at the following points of entry: Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, Poi Pet (Banteay Meanchey Province), Bavet (Svay Rieng Province), Cham Yeam (Koh Kong Province), Tropaeng Kreal (Stung Treng Province), and Sihanoukville International Airport. South African nationals can stay in the Cambodian country for 30 days with a single-entry type. This means that you can only enter the country once. Required documents are the following: valid passport, passport photo, valid email address and means of payment.

Travellers who wish to visit Cambodia can apply for a visa online: www.evisa.gov.kh

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
No. 3, Samdech Hun Sen Street,
Sangkat Tonle Basac, Khan Chamcar Mon,
Phnom Penh, Cambodia

E-visa office:

Tel: (855) 23-224-973
Fax: (855) 23-224-972

Health Requirements

Immunisation against Hepatitis A and B is recommended. Malaria is a problem in non-urban areas. Denge Fever (DHT) is also widespread. There is no immunisation against DHF. Visitors should carry their own medication with them. It is strongly recommended that comprehensive travel and health insurance be obtained, which would include emergency air evacuation, by a recognised carrier. Prospective travellers should check with their insurer to make sure that their policy meets their needs.

There has been a renewed outbreak of avian influenza (bird flu) among poultry in Cambodia. Visitors to Cambodia are unlikely to be affected but should avoid places where they may come into contact with live poultry.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate in Cambodia is divided into three distinct seasons, the first being the rainy, monsoon season from May to October, the dry season from November to April, which in turn is split into the cold season from November to January and the hot season from February to April.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). ATMs are available in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and Siem Reap and in some other major towns. Not all ATMs and banks accept foreign debit and credit cards. Check with your bank before travelling. Credit cards are not widely accepted, but some hotels and businesses in larger cities will accept them. Prices in hotels, shops and restaurants are usually quoted in US Dollar and Riel.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

In 2022, South Africa mostly exported mineral products, vegetables, prepared foodstuff (tobacco) and pharmaceutical products to Cambodia. Clothing accessories, footwear and gaiters were imported from Cambodia.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Cambodia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and the Republic of Cameroon established diplomatic relations on 29 April 1994.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Cameroon

HE Mr M Langa
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Cameroon Representation in South Africa

HE Mr Anu’a-Gheyle S Azoh-Mbi
High Commissioner

Cameroon High Commission

Travel Info

Air Travel

There are no direct flights to Cameroon.

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Cameroon High Commission in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

Immunisation against cholera and hepatitis A, B and E is strongly recommended before departure from South Africa. Immunisation against polio and tetanus is also recommended. There is a high risk of malaria throughout the year. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required. The COVID-19 negative certificate is additional requirement for travelling to Cameroon and all other international destinations.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Cameroon has a tropical climate. Especially the south is very hot and humid.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

Cameroon is a member of the “Communaute Financiere Africaine” (African Financial Community) or CFA Franc Zone, made up of a group of West and Central African nations. The CFA, which is the only legal tender, is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Minister Naledi Pandor visited Cameroon in her past role as Minister of Education.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Cameroon, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Canada established bilateral relations in 1939. Canada, a vociferous critic of apartheid, was strict in its application of sanctions against South Africa until September 1993. The role that Canada played in international efforts to pressure the then South African Government to dismantle Apartheid and the support from Canada for South Africa’s transition to democracy strengthened the bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two countries.

Former President Nelson Mandela’s visit to Canada and his historic speech to the Canadian Parliament in 1990 further enhanced the excellent bilateral relations between South Africa and Canada. Canada was one of the first countries he visited following his release from prison in 1990. After being elected, President Mandela undertook a State Visit to Canada in September 1998 and was presented with Honorary Canadian Citizenship, one of only five.

Structured Bilateral Mechanisms

Structured bilateral cooperation between South Africa and Canada takes place within the framework of the Declaration of Intent on Strengthened Cooperation, which was signed in 2003 and which laid the foundation for the Annual Consultations (AC). Under the AC, the two countries meet annually (alternating between South Africa and Canada), and are convened at Senior Officials’ level.

The AC are co-chaired at the level of the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). The 13th Annual Consultations was hosted by South Africa on 25 March 2021. The meeting discussed the strengthening of cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, mining and minerals, environment, education, science and technology and the cultural industries. The parties also exchanged information and perspectives on conflict situations in Africa and opportunities for regional and multilateral cooperation in the context of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the United Nations Security Council and the G20, in areas such as the Women, Peace and Security Agenda, global economic recovery and climate action.

High-level meetings between President Cyril Ramaphosa and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau take place often on the margins of multilateral fora such as the G7, as well as between the respective foreign ministers.

Trade and Investment

South Africa is a major entry point for Canada to access the African market. There are approximately 100 Canadian companies invested in South Africa, and Canadian investments in South Africa are largely concentrated in the mining sector, with more than 50% of total investment in this sector. The remaining 50% is fairly diversified across a number of sectors, including transport, food processing, hospitality, information and communications technologies and instrumentation sectors. There are 22 South African companies investing in Canada under the following sectors: mining, engineering, telecommunications, computer software, food chain, metal, travel and cultural cooperation.

In 2015, Canada established the Export Development Canada (EDC) Office in Johannesburg to explore investment opportunities in South Africa and on the continent – the first and only office in Africa.

International Assistance

Canada’s development cooperation with South Africa and other African countries is based on its Feminist International Assistance Policy, which was adopted in 2017. The bilateral assistance programmes are aligned to the National Development Plan (NDP) and include support for South Africa’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, green economy, women and girls’ empowerment and the NDP Chapter 13 goal to build a Capable and Developmental State. South Africa receives Canadian development assistance through a variety of channels, including direct government-to-government assistance, as well as support to Canadian and South African civil-society organisations and multilateral institutions.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Canada

HE Mr R Shaik
High Commissioner

South African High Commission

Canada Representation in South Africa

HE Mr J K Christoff
High Commissioner

Canadian High Commission

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africa

For more information, contact the Canadian High Commission in Pretoria or visit the website of the Canadian Government.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from an infected area.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Ottawa is hot and humid in summer and extremely cold in winter with heavy snow falls at times.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Canadian Dollar, expressed as CAD or CAN$. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Meetings take place on the margins of international summits.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Canada, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Cabo Verde established formal diplomatic relations on 4 April 1994.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Cabo Verde

The South African Ambassador in Dakar, Senegal is accredited to Cabo Verde on a non-residential basis.

HE Ms B Qwabe
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Cabo Verde Representation in South Africa

Cabo Verde does not have any resident diplomatic or consular representation in South Africa, but the Cabo Verdean Ambassador to Angola is accredited to South Africa on a non-residential basis.

HE Mr D D P Mascarenhas (Designate)
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Republic of Cabo Verde in Luanda, Angola

Rue Oliveira Martins No 3
Luanda
Angola

Tel: 09 244 2 32 1765/0412/0436
Fax: 09 244 32 0832

E-mail:
embaicv.ang@snct.co.ao
embaicv.ang@multitel.co.ao

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

South African passport holders require entry visas for Cabo Verde (issued on arrival)

Health requirements

While a valid international health certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever only is required, vaccination against hepatitis A and B and meningitis is also recommended. Preventative measures against malaria are strongly advised.

For further information, go to Travelers’ Health.

Climate Info

The 10 islands constituting the Cabo Verdean archipelago are characterised by an arid Sahelian climate with periodic droughts. The weather is moderately warm and dry from December to June with temperatures rising in the summer months (July to November). The annual rainfall is low and varies between 127 mm and 304 mm. Average annual temperature in the capital, Praia, ranges from 19-25 degrees C in March to 25-29 degrees C in October, while annual rainfall averages 250 mm.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Escudo, divided into 100 centavos. The symbol for the Escudo, which is not convertible outside Cabo Verde, is “CVE”.

For information on current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Cabo Verde, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa has enjoyed full diplomatic relations with the Central African Republic (CAR) since 23 August 1993. South Africa opened its Embassy in Bangui, CAR, on 27 September 2017 while the Embassy of the CAR in Pretoria was established in 2010. The two countries enjoy cordial relations. South Africa is committed to forging closer strategic cooperation with the CAR, focussing in particular on economic cooperation, and to continue working together in pursuance of continental integration, peace and security.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in CAR

HE Mr W M P Whitehead
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

No. 5686 Ndekele Anne
Avenue L’Independence
Bangui
Central African Republic (CAR)

Tel: + 236 75 08 21 46
Tel: + 236 75 08 16 84
Tel: + 236 76 49 56 56

CAR Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A Nzapayeke
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Central African Republic

209 Eastwood
Opp. Eastwood Village
Stanza Bopape Street
Arcadia
0083
Pretoria
South Africa

Tel: 078 033 6843
Tel: 012 430 2443
Tel: 012 430 2423

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

A visa is required for all South Africans travelling to the CAR. For further information, contact the Embassy of the Central African Republic.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever certificate is required. Immunisation against hepatitis A and B, polio, tetanus and typhoid is recommended. Malaria is a risk all year round. Rabies is present. General health information is available on the website for the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate is tropical and hot all year round. The rainy season is from May to October, and the dry season from December to April.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the CFA Franc.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

The former Minister of Mineral Resources, Mr Mosebenzi Zwane, visited the CAR in August 2017 to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Field of Minerals and Geology. In February 2019, CAR Minister of Mines and Geology met with Minister Gwede Mantashe on the margins of the Mining Indaba in Cape Town. In June 2019, the Minister Responsible for Disarmament, Demobilisation, Reintegration and Repatriation, Mr Maxime Mokom, visited South Africa to attend training hosted by In-Transformation Initiative. The Minister also met with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation’s former Director-General Kgabo Mahoai and the Business Unit. In July 2019, the Minister of National Reconciliation and Humanitarian Action, Ms Virginie Mbaikoa, visited South Africa. During the visit, the Minister met with the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini and the Business Unit; President Faustin-Archange Touadéra undertook a Working Visit to South Africa from 9 to 10 March 2020. He met with President Cyril Ramaphosa and the two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation and issues of mutual interest between the two countries. The Minister of Energy and Hydraulic Development, Mr Herbert Gotran Djono Ahaba, in January 2021, undertook a Working Visit to attend the Second Meeting of the Technical Committee of the Implementation of the MoU in the Fields of Geology, Minerals and Petroleum Resources.

The Special Envoy and Political Adviser to President Ramaphosa, Dr Bejani Chauke, visited the CAR in February 2020 where he met with President Touadéra. The former Minister of State Security, Ms Ayanda Dlodlo, visited the CAR in November 2020, and met with CAR President Touadéra, the then CAR Prime Minister, Mr Firmin Ngrebada, and CAR Minister of Defence and the Reconstruction of the Army, Ms Marie Koyara. President Touadéra held a virtual meeting with President Ramaphosa on 3 September 2020 to update the President as Chair of the African Union on the political and security developments in the CAR, on the Economic Countries of Central African States and challenges the country is facing, which were affecting its stability and that of the region. They again held a virtual meeting on 25 December 2020.

Ms Sylvie Baipo Temon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francophone and Central African Diaspora the CAR and Special Envoy, undertook a one-day visit to South Africa to convey a personal message from President Touadéra to President Ramaphosa on 14 January 2023. Due to scheduling challenges, President Ramaphosa was unavailable to receive Minister Baipo-Temon and requested the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, to meet the Special Envoy to receive the personal message on behalf of the President.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and the CAR, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Official relations between South Africa and the Republic of Chad were established on 21 October 1994. The South African Ambassador in Gabon presented his credentials as non-resident Ambassador to President Idriss Déby from Chad on 20 August 1999.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Chad

HE Mr J M K Nkosi
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Office hours (GMT +1):

Chad Representation in South Africa

HE Mr Y M I Sagour
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Chad Embassy

Safety and Security

The border area with Sudan’s Darfur in the east is not stable due to rebel activity and a large number of refugees from Darfur. There are also refugees in the south from Central African Republic (CAR).

Travel Info

Travellers should avoid conflict areas such as the southeast where there is a lot of rebel activity, banditry and an influx of refugees from neighbouring CAR and Sudan.

Air travel

There are no direct flights from South Africa to Chad. Connections can be made via Nairobi and Douala with Kenya Airways and Toumai Air Chad via Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines.

Visa requirements for South Africans

South Africans require visas for Chad. Chadian visas are issued in South Africa. They can be obtained at the Chadian Embassy in Pretoria. The contact address for the Chadian Embassy in Pretoria is:

157 Banket Street
Cnr Dely Road & Club Avenue
Waterkloof
Pretoria
0145
Gauteng
South Africa

Tel: 012 460 1596
Cell: 072 261 6717

E-mail:
chadembassy@telkomsa.net
ambassadeTchad@telkomsa.net

Website:
www.chadembassysa.com/

Health Requirements

Immunisation against hepatitis A and hepatitis B is strongly recommended before departure from South Africa, especially for visits of extended periods. Furthermore, Chad is considered malaria-endemic and special precautions should also be taken for cholera, typhoid, poliomyelitis measles, Hepatitis E and meningitis. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is compulsory for all visitors.

A polio booster is recommended but not for the immunodeficient. A meningitis vaccine is also recommended. HIV risk is high.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Chad’s climate is determined by two large masses of air, one being the dry, hot continental air mass ‒ the Harmattan ‒ bringing winds from the eastern and north-eastern Sahara. The other mass ‒ the Mousson ‒ is unstable, equatorial, humid and relatively cooler, bringing winds from the southeast.

This, and the Chadian geography, have created three climatic zones in Chad:

• the subtropical zone: In the equatorial rain belt to the south, with a dry season between November and May and a rainy season from May to October
• the Sahelian zone: In the central region, which has a longer dry season and a brief rainy season between June and September
• the desert or Saharan zone: In the northern region, with a hot and arid desert climate and practically no rainfall.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the CFA Franc, which is a regional currency under the control of the Bank of Central African States (Banque des États de l’Afrique Centrale or BEAC).

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

In November 2004, Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma visited Chad with Deputy Ministers of Minerals and Energy and Trade and Industry.

In April 2005, the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka visited tChad.

In April 2005: A Chadian delegation visited South Africa to explore possibilities of opening a mission in Pretoria.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Chad, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

N’Djamena Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Chambre de Commerce et de l’Industrie de N’Djamena)

BP 458
N’Djamena
Chad
Tel: +235-525264
Fax: +235-527108

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations were established on 9 February 1996. The South African High Commissioner in Canberra is accredited to the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands has full membership of international and regional organisations, including the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, World Health Organisation, Food and Agriculture Organisation, Pacific Islands Forum, South Pacific Commission and the South Pacific Forum.

The Cook Islands land area comprises 237 km² with a population of around 19 100.

For further information on Cook Islands, go to Cook Island’s Connection.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Cook Islands 

The South African High Commission in Canberra, Australia, may be contacted for any enquiries.

Vacant
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Cook Islands Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

Refer to the South African High Commission in Canberra, Australia.

Health Requirements

The preventative measures you need to take while travelling in the South Pacific region depend on the areas you visit and the length of time you stay. A certificate of yellow fever vaccination may be required for entry into certain of these countries if you are coming from a tropical South American or sub-Saharan African country. For detailed information, see Yellow Fever Comprehensive Vaccination Requirements.

Recommended vaccines (as appropriate for age and area visited)

Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG)

Rabies, if you might be exposed to wild or domestic animals through your work or recreation

Typhoid, particularly if you are visiting developing countries in this region

As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria and measles, and a one-time dose of polio for adults. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children 11-12 years of age who did not receive the series as infants.

See your doctor at least four to six weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect.

For more health information for travellers to the South Pacific, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The Cook Islands are a group of 15 islands below the Equator, 2 600 miles south of Hawaii. It has a tropical climate with high humidity. The wet season is from November to March with average temperatures approximately 23 degrees Celsius. The dry season is from April to October with average temperatures approximately 27 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, go to CNN.com Weather or Weather Underground.

Currency Info

The Cook Islands have their own very interesting currencies and coins (only exchangeable in the Cooks) which are interchangeable with the New Zealand Dollar. Most international credit cards are accepted throughout the Islands. Avarua, the capital, has full-service banking. You can change money at the airport and at most hotels. The main currency is the New Zealand Dollar

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

Trade relations are negligible. However, a wide range of South African wines is sourced from New Zealand.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and the Cook Islands, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and the Union of the Comoros have enjoyed official relations since 1983. Through South Africa’s role as an African Union-mandated Coordinator, the Comoros signed the Fomboni All-Party Framework Agreement of 17 February 2001, which led to years of relative peace and stability.  South Africa also played a pivotal role in supporting the process of application and admission of the Comoros as a member of the Southern African Development Community.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Comoros 

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Comoros Representation in South Africa

HE Mr M Chamsidine
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Union of the Comoros

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Comoran Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from an infected area. Malaria prophylaxis is essential.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The islands are the summits of a submerged volcanic ridge. Mount Karthala, rising to 2 040 m on Grande Comore, is still active. The climate of all the islands is tropical, hot and humid, with rainfall abundant in most places, but there are some semi-arid areas. The islands are occasionally ravaged by summer cyclones.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Comorian Franc (CF), divided into 100 centimes. The currency is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and the Comoros, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a fellow member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and South Africa is strongly committed to supporting the country’s long-term stability. South Africa views peace and stability in the DR Congo as a critical component for overall stability in the Great Lakes Region and as such is constructively engaged in both the DR Congo and the region in general. The DR Congo has made undeniable progress towards stability and democratic governance, considering the formidable challenges it has had to overcome in the past 20 years.

A South African Liaison Office was opened in Kinshasa in July 1989. Following the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries on 30 September 1992, the Liaison Office was upgraded to an Embassy. In keeping with South Africa commitment to enhanced bilateral relations with the DR Congo and peace and security in the region, a General Cooperation Agreement was concluded between the two countries on 14 January 2004. The agreement, among others, provides for the establishment of a strategic mechanism, a Bi-National Commission (BNC), at the level of Heads of State.

The 11th Session of the BNC was held in Kinshasa, the DR Congo, from 13 to 16 October 2018. In accordance with Article 5 of the General Cooperation Agreement, the work of the BNC was organised within the following thematic areas:

• Political and Governance Sectoral Commission
• Defence and Security Sectoral Commission
• Economy, Finance and Infrastructure Sectoral Commission
• Social and Humanitarian Sectoral Commission.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in the DR Congo

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

DR Congo Representation in South Africa

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the DR Congo

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

In July 2017, South Africa and the DR Congo signed a Visa Waiver Agreement on Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders that allows government officials to move freely between the two countries. The agreement came into effect on 01 October 2017.

For more information, contact the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever certificate is mandatory. There is a high risk of malaria throughout the year. Cholera and polio are present. Immunisation is required in respect of hepatitis A and B, tetanus and typhoid.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Temperatures are warm all the year round and can vary from 19 to 32 degrees Celsius. The north is dry from December to March, and the dry season in the south occurs from May to October.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The only legal tender is the Congolese Franc, which is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and the DR Congo, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa established diplomatic relations with Costa Rica in 1994. South Africa maintains good bilateral relations with Costa Rica. The South African Ambassador to Mexico, HE Mr MG Ferguson is also accredited as non-residential Ambassador to Costa Rica.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Costa Rica 

South Africa is not residentially represented in Costa Rica. Please contact the South African Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico.

HE Ms B R Sisulu
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

TIME DIFFERENCE WITH SA:
-8 hours (Winter – Oct – March)
-7 hours (Summer – April – Sept)

Costa Rica Representation in South Africa

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary designate, with residence in Switzerland

Honorary Consul
Ms Teresita Lépiz Valls-van Gaalen

Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Costa Rica

Tel: +27 (0)11 885 6895

47 Corlett Drive
Illovo
Sandton
South Africa

Email: Teresita@costarica-consulate.africa

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for Costa Rican citizens visiting South Africa

For more information, contact the Embassy of South Africa in Mexico City, Mexico.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes, particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children, in a most serious light.

Health Requirements

Malaria – High-risk in rural areas below 500 m – only chloroquin needed.
Typhoid present – Low risk.
Tetanus – Immunisation recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Most of the year it is very hot – especially on the Caribbean coast. The rainy season is from June to November. December to May is the warm, dry season.

For up-to-date weather information. click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Costa Rican Colon (CRC).

For current exchange rates click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Costa Rica, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and the Côte d’Ivoire established diplomatic relations in May 1992.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Côte d’Ivoire

The South African Ambassador is resident in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Côte d’Ivoire Representation in South Africa

HE Mr S Kone
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire.

Health requirements

A valid international health certificate providing vaccination against yellow fever is required. Malaria is a high risk throughout the year. Cholera is present.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Dry from December to April. Rainy from May to July. Dry in the north from August to September.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the CFA Franc.

For information on current exchange rates, click here.

Language

The official language is French while local languages are also spoken.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

For some years, South Africa’s relations with Chile were conducted from Buenos Aires, Argentina, until an Embassy was formally opened in Santiago in March 1974. Relations were, however, never formally normalised until the appointment of a Chilean Ambassador to South Africa in October 1991. Current relations are maintained at ambassadorial level.

South Africa and Chile are both developing countries, share common experiences and problems and as such, can learn from each other and exchange expertise in related and relevant fields.

The relations are anchored through two frameworks. Politically relations are anchored through the Joint Consultative Mechanism, signed in 1998, which is co-chaired by the respective deputy ministers of foreign affairs/international relations. The Seventh Session of the Joint Consultative Mechanism took place virtually on 22 July 2021 co-chaired by Deputy Minister Alvin Botes from South African and Vice-Minister Carolina Valdivia from Chile.

Economic relations are anchored through the Joint Trade and Investment Commission (JTIC). This is led by the trade and industry entities of the two countries – Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) for South Africa and Directorate for Economic Relation (DIRECON) on the part of Chile. DIRECON is located within the Department of Foreign Affairs. The last session of the JTIC (VI) was held virtually on 19 May 2021.

Numerous high-level visits have taken place since the normalisation of relations.

During her State Visit to South Africa in August 2014 President Michelle Bachelet made two important announcements namely, the Chilean Government would launch and fully sponsor a Nelson Mandela Scholarship that would target Masters’ students from South Africa – it was later extended to Angolan and Mozambican students – who would come and study in Chile and, a Nelson Mandela Memorial would be erected at a prominent site in Santiago.

On 6 November 2018, the Chair of the National Council of Provinces, Mme Thandi Modise, on invitation of the Chile South Africa Parliamentary Group, made a historic address to the Chamber of Deputies as part of Chile’s cross-party homage ceremony in honour of Nelson Mandela’s centenary celebration, thus deepening inter-parliamentary cooperation. At the same occasion, the Nelson Mandela Photo Exhibition was launched. A good foundation has been laid for greater inter-parliamentary cooperation.

The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries led a South African delegation to the country’s first-ever participation at the global aquaculture exhibition called AquaSur in October 2018, thus deepening cooperation in the aquaculture space.

On 23 April 2019, at a landmark event right at the centre of Santiago city, the Nelson Mandela Memorial was jointly launched by the Mayor of Santiago, Mr Fileppe Alessandri Vergana and former Ambassador Thabo Thage.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Chile

HE Mr G M Monyemangene
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Time difference with South Africa:
-5 hours

Chile Representation in South Africa

HE Mr J Fiol
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Republic of Chile

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information contact the Embassy of Chile.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Health Requirements

Tetanus immunisation is recommended if more than three years have passed since last inoculation.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Hot in the north. Very cold in the south. The central areas have a Mediterranean climate.

Rain (May to August). Warmer months are November to February.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP).

For current exchange rates. click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Joint Consultative Meeting (JCM) – Seventh Session held on 22 July 2021.

Joint Trade and Investment Commission (JTIC) – Seventh Session held on 19 May 2021.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Chile, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Following the establishment of relations with the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, South Africa recognised the independence and sovereignty of both Croatia and Slovenia later the same day on 2 April 1992. An agreement with Croatia establishing full diplomatic relations was concluded on 9 November 1992. In November 1995, the Honorary Consulate General of Croatia, headed by Mr T Mursalo, was upgraded to an Embassy with Mr Mursalo as the first Ambassador.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Croatia 

The South African Ambassador to Budapest, Hungary, is accredited to Croatia on a non-residential basis.

HE Mr G M Tsengiwe
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Croatia Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A Cicvaric
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Croatia

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African citizens need a visa to visit Croatia.

For more information, contact the Croatian Embassy in Pretoria or visit the website of the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from an infected area.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

In the lowland regions, the climate is continental, with hot dry summers and cool winters. In mountain regions, the summers are mild and winters are cold with lots of snow. The coastal climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Croatian Kuna (Kn). 1 Kuna = 100 Lipa. The currency is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa’s main exports to Croatia include coal, iron ore, granite, fruit and vegetables. Croatia’s main exports to South Africa include textiles, polymers of ethylene, medicinal and pharmaceutical products.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Croatia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Following South Africa’s democratic transition, South Africa and Cuba established formal diplomatic relations on 11 May 1994 and opened resident embassies in Pretoria (1994) and Havana (1995), respectively.

Cuba has since become an established strategic partner for South Africa in the Latin American region and in multilateral fora. The relations are characterized by high-level political dialogue.

In October 2015, then Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa paid an Official Visit to Cuba. The Official Visit was reciprocated by Vice President Valdés Mesa in 2016 and again in February 2017. South Africa received the Vice President of the Council of State of the Republic of Cuba, HE Ms Inés María Chapman Waugh, from 23 to 27 March 2019, participating in the Southern African Development Community Solidarity Conference with the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) and the First Vice President of Cuba, HE Mr Salvador Valdés Mesa, attending President Ramaphosa’s inauguration on 25 May 2019.

Bilateral relations were strengthened following the 15th South Africa-Cuba Joint Consultative Mechanism held in Pretoria on 5 September 2019, which reviewed and further deepened bilateral relations, as well as by the visit of Mr Thulas Nxesi, Minister of Employment and Labour in November 2019 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the founding of Havana City and 25 years of mutually beneficial South Africa-Cuba diplomatic relations. A statue of former President Nelson Mandela was also unveiled in African Founders Park in Havana. The 17th Joint Consultative Mechanism, held in Pretoria on 28 March 2023, reviewed bilateral relations and agreements focussing on concrete steps to elevate bilateral economic relations to the same level as the excellent strategic political relations.

South Africa-Cuba relations serve as a successful and exemplary model of South-South cooperation in the areas of health training and services, public works technical assistance, cooperation on water resource management and water supply and on professional services in the field of basic education.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Cuba 

HE Ms Y N Phosa
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Time Difference with South Africa

– Seven hours – 20 October – 20 April
– Six hours – 20 April – 20 October

Cuba Representation in South Africa

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Ms E G Armenteros Cardenas

Embassy of the Republic of Cuba
Cuban Foreign Ministry

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Pretoria.

Visa Requirements for Cuban citizens visiting South Africa

For more information, contact any South African Embassy in Havana, Cuba.

Travel Advisory on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes, particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children in a most serious light.

Health Requirements

Travellers to Cuba need to familiarise themselves with COVID screening and testing requirements when visiting Cuba.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical/average temperature is 25 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Cuban Peso.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Major South African exports to Cuba are plastics and rubber, textiles, machinery and vehicles and major Cuban imports are prepared foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Cuba, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Political Relations between South Africa and Cyprus

Diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Republic of Cyprus were established on 10 December 1993. The South African Ambassador to Athens is accredited as the non-resident High Commissioner to Cyprus and South Africa has appointed an Honorary Consul in Cyprus. A Cypriot Consulate General was established in Johannesburg in March 1994, and it was elevated to the status of Embassy at the beginning of 1999. The first Cypriot High Commissioner to South Africa was accredited in April 1999.

South Africa has aligned itself with the international law on the “Question of Cyprus”, and it recognises the Republic of Cyprus as a legitimate government.

South Africa has excellent and long-standing bilateral relations with Cyprus. It has maintained strong ties with the country also due to the large and influential Greek Cypriot community in South Africa. This community serves as a link between South Africa and Cyprus in both the political and economic fields.

Structural Bilateral Relations

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Political Consultations, signed in 2012. A number of draft MoUs are to be concluded.

High-Level Visit

During her visit to Cyprus in 2012, the former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, signed an MoU on Political Consultations with the Cypriot Foreign Minister.

The Minister of Education, Dr Blade Nzimande visited Cyprus and held meetings with his counterpart, Minister Kostas Kadis, in September 2017.

The Cypriot Minister of Education and Culture, Costas Hampiaouris, visited South Africa in March 2019, and met with her then counterpart Minister Naledi Pandor to discuss guidelines and measures for enhanced cooperation in education.

Trade between South Africa and Cyprus

Cyprus lifted trade sanctions against South Africa at the end of 1993. Normal trade relations between the two countries commenced immediately and the Cypriot business community took a keen interest in South Africa as a business partner. Trade with Cyprus has increased steadily. Cyprus offers many advantages to the international business sector from countries with which Cyprus has an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation

Cyprus is a European Union (EU) member state and adheres to the South Africa-EU Free Trade Agreement.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Cyprus 

There is no South African representation in Cyprus, but the South African Ambassador to Athens, Hellenic Republic (Greece), is accredited to Nicosia on a non-resident basis.

HE Dr L G Msengana-Ndlela
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South Africa also has an Honorary Consul in Nicosia to facilitate consular and other affairs between the two countries.

Mr John George Mavrokordatos (from February 2019)

Priamus Audit Ltd
One World Parkview House
75 Prodromou Ave, 2nd floor
2063 Strovolos
Nicosia, Cyprus

South African Embassy

Cyprus Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A Mandritis
High Commissioner

Cypriot High Commission

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Cypriot High Commission in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

None for South African travellers.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health

Climate Info

Cyprus has an intense Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers from mid-May to mid-September and rainy, rather changeable, winters from mid-November to mid-March, which are separated by short autumn and spring seasons. Annual rainfall is 500 mm.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Cyprus, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Cyprus-South Africa Business Association

7 38, Grivas Digenis Ave. & 3, Deligiorgis Str
P.O. Box 21455
1509 Nicosia
P: +357 22 889800

E-mail: info@cysaba.org.cy

The Cyprus Brotherhood of South Africa

10 Concorde Road
Bedfordview
Gauteng,
South Africa

Tel: +27 -11 827 9925
Fax: +27 -11 827 4187

E-mail: cyprussa@speedweb.co.za

Hellenic Cyprus Brotherhood, Bedfordview

10 Concorde Road
Bedfordview
Gauteng
South Africa

Tel: +27 11 615 7813
Fax: +27 11 825 4102, +27 11616 6107

E-Mail: cyprussa@speedweb.co.za

History of Relations

Full diplomatic relations between the former Federal Republic of Czechoslovakia and South Africa were established in October 1991. With the dissolution of the Federal Republic of Czechoslovakia, the Czech Republic came into existence as a separate sovereign state on 1 January 1993. The bilateral diplomatic relations entered into with the Federal Republic of Czechoslovakia continued uninterrupted with the Czech Republic.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Czech Republic  

HE Ms M D Sejosingoe
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Czech Republic Representation in South Africa

HE Mr T Uličnẏ
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Czech Republic

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information contact the Czech Embassy in Pretoria or the Czech Consulate General in Cape Town. Consular hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 09:00 to 12:00.

Health Requirements

No special health requirements exist.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Summers are moderate to hot. Winters are cold with snow and frost. Rainfall occurs throughout the year.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Czech Crown, which is divided into 10 hellers. The symbol for the Czech Crown is “Ck”. The currency is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa’s main exports to the Czech Republic include automotive products, ores and concentrates of base metals and fruits and nuts. The Czech Republic’s main exports to South Africa consist of machinery and transport equipment.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and the Czech Republic, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Czech-South African Society:
Dr Z J Kubes
PO Box 84
100 31 Praha 10
E-mail: czefrica@mbox.vol.cz
Tel/fax: 420 271729500

Czech-African Society
Prof V Sery
Havelska 14
110 00 Prague 1
E-mail: medpharm@sendme.cz
Tel: 420 2 22094 121
Fax: 420 2 22094 123

Czech/SA Chamber of Commerce
Mr J Regner
Stroupeznickeho 2328/30
150-00 Prague 5
Tel: 420 257 090 271
E-mail: Regnerjos@msn.com

Mr Z Krysl
Vaclavske nam 56
113-26 Prague 1
Tel: 420 2243 3251
Fax: 420 2222 12026
E-mail: krysl@srtojexpont.cz

History of Relations

South Africa first opened a Consulate General in Copenhagen on 1 September 1975, which was upgraded to an Embassy in May 1990. South Africa has close relations with Denmark dating back to the constant and strong support for democracy in South Africa. Bilateral political relations are warm and sound. Denmark is also an important partner with regard to overseas development assistance.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Denmark

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Danish Representation in South Africa

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Royal Danish Embassy

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Royal Danish Embassy in Pretoria.

Health requirements

If there are uncertainties about health requirements, contact the Danish Embassy.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate is humid and overcast with mild, windy winters and cool summers. February is the coldest month of the year, with an average temperature of -0,4 degrees Celsius. July is the warmest with an average of 16,6 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Danish Krone (plural Kroner), divided into 100 Ore.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Denmark, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Confederation of Danish Industries (Dansk Industri)

Dansk Industri

H.C. Andersens Boulevard 18

1787-Copenhagen V.

Denmark

Tel: (45) 33 77 33 77

Fax: (45) 33 77 33 00

E-mail: di@di.dk

Homepage: www.di.dk

Danish Chamber of Commerce

Royal Stock Exchange Building

1217-Copenhagen K.

Denmark

Tel: (45) 33 95 05 00

Fax: (45) 33 32 52 16

E-mail: handelskammeret@commerce.dk

Website: www.commerce.dk

History of Relations

South Africa and the Republic of Djibouti established diplomatic relations in 1994. The first South African non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Djibouti, Ambassador Welile Nhlapo, resident in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, presented his credentials to President Hassan Gouled Aptidon on 1 December 1997.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Djibouti

The South African Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is responsible for Djibouti.

HE Ms N N Losi
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Djiboutian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A H Abdillahi
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary, with residence in Nairobi

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the South African Embassy in Addis Ababa.

Health requirements

Immunisation against hepatitis A and B and yellow fever is required.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

Djibouti is extremely hot and humid in summer and has a hot winter season with little rainfall. Temperatures from April to September can range from 43 to 45 degrees Celsius, while winter temperatures range from 25 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Djibouti Franc.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Djibouti, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

The headquarters of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is in Djibouti. Members of IGAD include Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda.

History of Relations

Relations between South Africa and Dominica were established on 29 April 1998. High Commissioner TH Chiliza presented letters of credentials to President Vernon Shaw on 22 August 2001.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Dominica

The South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica is responsible for Dominica.

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Time difference: -7 hours

Dominican Representation in South Africa

None

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

None for visits of up to 21 days. Extensions may be granted by the local immigration authorities. Passports should be valid for at least six months from date of entry.

Health Requirements

Tetanus immunisation recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical; tempered by trade winds. Rainy season from May to August.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD).

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

Exports fall chiefly into the categories of pulp of wood or of other fibrous celluloisic material and base metals etc. Imports fall chiefly into the categories of machinery and mechanical appliances, electrical equipment, etc.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Dominica, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and the Dominican Republic enjoy deep and friendly relations with diplomatic ties established in May 2002. The South African Ambassador to Cuba is accredited as non-resident Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, while the Dominican Republic established an Embassy in South Africa in August 2008. South Africa views the Dominican Republic as an important bilateral partner and a principal member of the African Diaspora, which the African Union (AU) correctly embraced as a sixth region of the African continent. South Africa and the Dominican Republic during their terms as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, collaborated extensively on strengthening global peace, security and human rights.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Dominican Republic

South Africa is not residentially represented in the Dominican Republic. Please contact the SA Embassy in Havana, Cuba.

HE Ms Y N Phosa
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Dominican Republic Representation in South Africa

HE Ms E Y Alvarez Rodriguez
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Dominican Republic

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Directorate: Mexico, Central America, the Andean Community and the Caribbean Desk of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Travel Advisory: Warning on Illegal Activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Visa Requirements for citizens of the Dominican Republic visiting South Africa

For more information, contact the Embassy of South Africa in Havana, Cuba.

Health Requirements

Travellers to the Dominican Republic need to familiarise themselves with COVID screening and testing requirements when visiting the country.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

The Dominican Republic is an attractive trading partner for South Africa in the Caribbean owing to its advanced and open economy, its export-processing zones, strong infrastructure and relatively low tax environment.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Dominican Republic, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Following an Official Visit by the South African Ambassador accredited to Santiago in November 1993, South Africa established diplomatic relations with Ecuador on 22 September 1994.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Ecuador

No Representation

Ecuadorian Representation in South Africa

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Ecuador

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

None for South African passport holders for a stay not exceeding 90 days. Visas are required for longer stays for tourists, business and study purposes.

Health Requirements

Yellow fever certificate.

Malaria risk exists if travelling below 1 500 m – only Chloroquine needed.

Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

Tropical in coastal areas, rainy season from September to June and cool weather in interior mountain region.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Dollar.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Exports fall chiefly into the category of base metals. Imports fall chiefly into the categories of machinery, mechanical appliances and electrical equipment, and chemicals.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Ecuador, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

The first South African Mission in Egypt was established in 1942 as a Consulate General. The office was, however, converted to a Legation during 1949, after the Egyptian Council of Ministers decided to elevate their representation in the then Union of South Africa to that of a Legation.

During 1960, a group of seven representatives from South Africa’s different liberation movements visited Cairo to solicit Egyptian support for the struggle in South Africa. This visit signalled the beginning of the end of official South African-Egyptian relations, as well as the beginning of the Egyptian Government’s support for South African liberation movements, which continued for many years. On 30 May 1960, relations between the governments of Egypt and South Africa were officially severed.

Official contact between the two governments was only reactivated, to a limited extent, during 1988. In June 1988, the Egyptian Government offered Cairo as a venue for the Joint Commission Meeting between South Africa, Angola, Cuba, the United States and the Soviet Union. It was during this meeting, that the first contact between the then South African Foreign Minister and the then Egyptian Foreign Minister took place.

The first signs of true normalisation appeared in 1991, when the Egyptian Ambassador to Mozambique announced that he would react favourably to visa applications from South African citizens. These improving relations were formalised at the end of 1993, with the opening of the South African and Egyptian Representative Offices in Cairo and Pretoria, respectively. On 11 October 1993, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry announced that full diplomatic relations would be resumed, following the April 1994 general elections in South Africa. Shortly following the elections, both governments announced the upgrading of their respective representative offices to that of embassies.

Bilateral political and economic relations between Egypt and South Africa have improved greatly since 1993. These improvements were underlined in April 1996, with the convening of the First Annual Joint Bilateral Commission Meeting in Cairo.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Egypt

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Egyptian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A A I Sharief
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, please contact the Egyptian Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

There are no specific health requirements for South Africans visiting Egypt for short periods of time. It is, however, suggested that persons who intend spending an extended period in Egypt should be immunised against hepatitis A and hepatitis B.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Cairo has hot dry summers and temperate winters. There are, however, four distinct seasons, which make it easier to cope with the temperature extremes that are experienced during the summer. The seasons can roughly be identified as follows:

Winter: December – February

Spring: March – May

Summer: June – September

Autumn: October – November

It should, however, be added that the seasons are not cast in stone and therefore it is not uncommon to find drastic departures from the norm.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The Egyptian monetary unit is the Egyptian Pound (LE), which can be divided into 100 piasters. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Egypt, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations with El Salvador were established in 1997. South Africa maintains good relations with El Salvador. The South African Ambassador to Mexico, HE Mr D T Dlomo is also accredited as non-residential Ambassador to El Salvador. The accreditation of Ambassador Dlomo to El Salvador enhances the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in El Salvador

South Africa is not residentially represented in El Salvador. Please contact the South African Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico.

HE Ms B R Sisulu
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Time difference with South Africa:

-8 hours (Winter – Oct – March)
-7 hours (Summer – April – Sept)

El Salvadorean Representation in South Africa

El Salvador is not residentially represented in South Africa, representation is accredited from Jerusalem, Israel.

HE Ms S E G de Hasenson
Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Central American desk of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities, which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights, under the laws of the country in which you were arrested, are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Visa Requirements for El Salvadorean citizens visiting South Africa

For more information, contact the South African Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico.

Health Requirements

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Salvadorean Colon (SVC).

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and El Salvador, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa has enjoyed full diplomatic relations with the Republic of Equatorial Guinea since 5 May 1993.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Equatorial Guinea

HE Ms M N Dwabayo
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Equatorial Guinea Representation in South Africa

HE Mr P E Nguema Buna
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Equatorial Guinea

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

Visas are required by South African passport holders. Visas can be issued on arrival if prior authorisation has been reached with the Equatorial Guinean Foreign Ministry in Malabo.

The Foreign Ministry’s contact details are:

Tel and Fax: 09 240 9 22 71

Communication with the Foreign Ministry on visas must clearly be marked for the Consular Section

The contact details of the Equatorial Guinean Embassy in Libreville are:

Tel:  09 241 732 523

Fax: 09 241 732 522

Address: BP 14262, Libreville, Gabon

Health Requirements

A yellow fever certificate is required. Malaria is a high risk throughout the year. Immunisation is recommended for hepatitis A and B as well as for tetanus. Bilharzia and rabies are present. Immunisation is recommended for polio.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate is tropical; always hot and humid. Rainfall is heavy for most of the year, decreasing between December and February.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

Equatorial Guinea is a member of the “Communauté Financière Africaine” (African Financial Community) or CFA Franc Zone, made up of a group of West and Central African nations.

The CFA, which is the only legal tender, is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Equatorial Guinea, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Eritrea, a former Ethiopian province and Italian colony, gained independence in 1993. South Africa and the State of Eritrea agreed in 1994 to establish diplomatic relations. Ambassador WAW Nhlapo, South Africa’s first non-resident Ambassador to Eritrea, presented his credentials to President Isaias Afewerki on 12 March 1996.

The Republic of South Africa enjoys cordial bilateral relations with the State of Eritrea. Both countries share issues of mutual interest, including enhancing bilateral political and economic relations, as well as political developments on the continent, particularly in the Horn of Africa. Diplomatic relations between South Africa and Eritrea were established in 1995 and both countries have embassies in each other’s capitals.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Eritrea

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Eritrea Representation in South Africa

HE Mr S O Abdu
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Eritrea

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Eritrean Embassy in Pretoria.

Health requirements

Malaria is not really a problem in Eritrea, although it does exist. Care should particularly be taken during and after the rain season.

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Eritrea: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Eritrea can be divided into three major climate zones: the highlands, the lowlands and the coastal region. Each has a different climate pattern. Eritrea either has a hot semi-arid climate (BSh) or a hot desert climate (BWh), although temperatures are moderated at the highest elevations.

Highland

The rainy season is from May to September with average temperatures of 19 degrees Celsius during the day. The dry season is from October to April with average temperatures during the day of 22 degrees Celsius.

Lowland and Coast

This area is hot and humid with day temperatures reaching between 40-45 degrees Celsius.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Eritrean Nakfa.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Eritrea, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Estonia had representation in South Africa from 1934 with an Honorary Consul in Cape Town. A second Honorary Consul was appointed in Johannesburg in 1939. Estonian representation ended in 1948. South Africa formally recognised the independence of Estonia and the other Baltic states on 28 August 1991. Diplomatic relations were established in October 1991. Bilateral relations between South Africa and Estonia have developed gradually. There are no contentious or outstanding political issues between the two countries.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Estonia

Representation accredited from Stockholm, Sweden

HE H R H Princess Z N Dlamini
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Estonian Representation in South Africa

Honorary Consul
Ms R Knipe

Honorary Consulate: Cape Town

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

An Estonian tourist visa can be used to enter Lithuania and Latvia. Visit the Estonia Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ section on Consular Information for further information.

Health requirements

South Africans do not require vaccinations when visiting Estonia. However, vaccinations against polio, hepatitis A and tetanus are advisable as a precautionary measure.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Wet, moderate winters and cool summers.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The Monetary Unit is the Estonian kroon (EEK), divided into 100 cents.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

Estonia’s most important exports to South Africa are matches, computers, electronic equipment and foodstuffs. South Africa exports fresh and canned fruit, wine, filters, transformers and signal equipment to Estonia.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Estonia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Mr Mart Relve

Director General

Toom-Kooli 17

10130 Tallinn

Tel: +372 64 604 44

Fax: +372 64 602 45

E-mail: koda@koda.ee

History of Relations

Formal relations between South Africa and Eswatini were established on 27 December 1984 at Trade Representative level. On 1 October 1993, relations were upgraded to ambassadorial level. Upon South Africa’s re-entry into the Commonwealth, relations have been conducted at High Commissioner level.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Eswatini

Vacant
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Eswatini Representation in South Africa

HE Ms L S Kunen
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

High Commission of Eswatini

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Eswatini High Commission in South Africa.

Health Requirements

Malaria can be contracted in the Lowveld.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Very hot and humid in summer with temperatures reaching 33 degrees Celsius. Winters are dry with night temperatures as low as minus 4 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is Emalangeni, which is divided into hundred lilangeni. The symbol for Emalangeni is E

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Eswatini is a member of the Southern African Customs Union, which allows for a free flow of trade between the two countries. No bilateral trade figures are recorded between the countries, as trade figures are only recorded in terms of the combined imports by one country from all other SACU countries.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Eswatini, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia established formal diplomatic relations in 1994. The South African Embassy was established in Addis Ababa in August 1994 and the first Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Ethiopia (and also accredited to the Organisation of African Unity [OAU]), Ambassador WAW Nhlapo, presented his credentials to the Ethiopian President on 8 February 1995, and OAU Secretary General, Dr Salim Ahmed Salim, on 13 March 1995.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Ethiopia

HE Ms N N Losi
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Ethiopian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr D K Bushra
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Ethiopian Embassy in Pretoria.

Health requirements

Immunisation against yellow fever and possession of a valid yellow fever certificate is a must, and hepatitis A and B are optional, depending on the duration of stay in Ethiopia. Immunisation against poliomyelitis, tetanus and typhoid (Vivotif Berna) is also recommended. Malaria is not really a problem in Addis Ababa, although it does exist in the low-lying and southern parts of the country.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Two seasons are experienced throughout most of the country: the dry season prevails from October through May and the wet monsoon season from June to September. Some areas are prone to periodic extended droughts. The highlands/plateau are temperate while the lowlands are hot; temperatures vary from 10 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Ethiopian Birr. The currency is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Ethiopia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations were re-established in 1949. A South African legation was established in 1967 and relations were upgraded to ambassadorial level in March 1991. Finland and South Africa enjoy excellent relations and a Declaration of Intent was signed in June 2000 to facilitate bilateral consultations between South Africa and Finland.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Finland

Representation accredited from Stockholm, Sweden

HE H R H Princess Z N Dlamini
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Finnish Representation in South Africa

HE Mr P J Metso
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Finnish Embassy

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Finnish Embassy in Pretoria.

Health requirements

South Africans do not require vaccinations when visiting Finland. However, vaccinations against olio and tetanus are advisable as a precautionary measure.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

Cold temperate, potentially subarctic, but comparatively mild because of the moderating influence of the North Atlantic Current and the more than 60 000 lakes.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Euro. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South African exports to Finland include food products (fresh and dried fruits), wine, pulp, paper, iron, steel and coal. South Africa mainly imports products such as telecommunications equipment, paper and board products as well as machinery from Finland.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Finland, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Formal diplomatic relations between South Africa and France were normalised after the first democratic elections in 1994. President Nelson Mandela’s State Visit to France in July 1996 and President Jacques Chirac’s visit to South Africa in June 1998 brought the two countries closer together. Several high-level visits have taken place to further solidify relations over the years, of which the most recent were the Official Visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa to France on 18 May 2021 and a State Visit by President Emmanuel Macron to South Africa from 28 to 29 May 2021.

South Africa and France are strategic partners with bilateral cooperation encompassing many areas of mutual interest at national, regional and multilateral levels. Relations between the two countries are coordinated through a Forum for Political Dialogue (FPD), a structured mechanism that was instituted in 1997.

France is one of South Africa’s important trade and investment partners. Bilateral trade amounted to R40.5 billion in 2021 (an 18.6% increase despite the COVID-19 pandemic). French foreign investment in South Africa stood at R89 billion at the end of 2021. French companies have invested in different sectors of the economy in South Africa, i.e., financial services, renewable energy, rail, chemicals, oil and gas.

Investment pledges have been made by more than 20 French companies in South Africa during the past three investment conferences, and these have been accompanied by a commitment to supporting vocational training and skills development, of which nearly 25 000 South Africans have already benefitted from training by French companies. A commitment of R20 billion in 2019 was fully invested by 2021, and a new commitment of R50 billion was made in 2022. Some 370 French companies’ subsidiaries are based in South Africa – including most of the major CAC40 firms. They are present in many sectors and employ more than 65 000 people. Similarly, France is one of the largest markets for tourism for South Africa. Tourism flows from France to South Africa prior to COVID-19 amounted to more than 160 000 per annum.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in France

HE Mr N E Mthethwa
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Republic of South Africa Embassy in Paris
59 Quai d’Orsay
75343 – Paris Cédex 7
Tel: 01 53 59 24 10
E-mail: info.paris@dirco.gov.za

Honorary Consulate of South Africa: Rennes, France

Mr Jean-Pierre Tromeur
Honorary Consul

Centre d’Affaires d’Ile-de-France
4, avenue Charles Tillon – 35000 Rennes
Tel: 02 23 46 14 18
Fax: 02 23 46 14 15
E-mail: cofogep@wanadoo.fr

Honorary Consulate of South Africa: Marcq-en-Baroeul, France

Mr Léon-Gabriel Tharin
Honorary Consul

8, avenue Foch
59700 Marcq-en-Baroeul
Tel: 03 20 57 54 73
Fax: 03 20 57 89 40

South African Embassy

French Representation in South Africa

HE Mr D C M M Martinon
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

250 Melk Street – Nieuw Muckleneuk – 0181 Pretoria
Tel: +27 (0)12 425 1600

French General Consulate: Johannesburg

Ms Sonia Doña Pérez
Consul General

Standard Bank Building, 3rd floor
191, Jan Smuts Avenue
Tel: +27 (0)11 778 5600

French General Consulate: Cape Town

Mr Laurent Alberti
Consul General

78 Queen Victoria Street, Gardens 8001 Cape Town
Tel: +27 (0)21 423 1575

Embassy of France

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africa

For more information, contact the French Consulate-General in Johannesburg.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes ‒ particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children ̶ in a most serious light.

Health Requirements

With regard to COVID-19 regulations, a negative PCR Test or Vaccine Certificate is required for entry into France. Vaccinated non-European nationals are required to apply for a COVID certificate if they were vaccinated abroad. The online application for the Certificate can be found at: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/passe-sanitaire-etrangers?locale=en. If not vaccinated, they must produce a negative RT-PCR/Antigen test results valid for 72 hours upon arrival. Furthermore, a 10-day isolation period and an additional RT-PCR/Antigen test at the end of the isolation period are required for unvaccinated travellers.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health and French Consulate-General.

Climate Info

France is the only European country with three distinct climates, namely: continental, maritime and Mediterranean. The climate cannot be generalised due to the diversity of the landscape as well as “micro-climates”. The Loire Valley (200 km south of Paris) is considered the divide between the cooler north and the warmer south. If you would like to be assured of sunshine, travel south!

Paris temperatures range from -5º C in winter to 30º C in summer. Rain is frequent.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

TIME DIFFERENCE WITH SA:

-1 hour (Winter: October – February)
-0 hours (Summer: March – September)

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Euro. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Most recent visits:

• 18 May 2021: Official Visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa to France to participate in the Summit on Financing Africa’s Development
• 28-29 May 2021: State Visit by President Emmanuel Macron to South Africa

Upcoming visits:

• No information

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and France, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa established full diplomatic relations with the Republic of Gabon on 15 October 1992.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Gabon

HE Ms N P Notutela-Mthabela
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Gabon Representation in South Africa

Vacant
High Commissioner

Embassy of the Republic of Gabon

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Gabon.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever certificate is required. Immunisation is recommended in respect of hepatitis A and B and tetanus. Malaria is endemic and there is a high risk throughout the year.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Gabon has an equatorial and humid climate. The long dry season is generally from about the end of June to September with a short dry season from mid-December to mid-January. The long rainy season is from mid-January to June with a short rainy season from the end of September to mid-December.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

Gabon is a member of the “Communaute Financiere Africaine” (African Financial Community) or CFA Franc Zone, made up of a group of West and Central African nations. The CFA, which is the only legal tender, is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Gabon, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and The Gambia established formal diplomatic relations on 7 August 1998.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in The Gambia

The South African Ambassador in Dakar, Senegal, is accredited to The Gambia on a non-residential basis.

HE Ms B Qwabe
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Gambian Representation in South Africa

HE Dr F Jahumpa Ceesay
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

High Commission of the Republic of The Gambia

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

High Commission of the Republic of The Gambia
Bookfield Office Park
1st Floor
North Block
Nieuw Muckleneuk
Brooklyn
0181

Tel: 012 004 0374

Health requirements

While a valid international health certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever only is required, vaccination against hepatitis A and B and meningitis is also recommended. Preventative measures against malaria are strongly advised.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The Gambia has a dry tropical climate with a rainy season from June to October and a dry season from November to May. Annual rainfall ranges from 760mm to 1 400 mm, with the rainy season characterised by increased humidity. Average temperature in the capital, Banjul, varies from 15-23 degrees C in January to 23-31 degrees C in June, while annual rainfall averages 1 295 mm.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Dalasi, divided into 100 bututs. The symbol for the Dalasi, which is not convertible outside The Gambia, is “D”.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and The Gambia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations since 1995.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Georgia

Non-residential accreditation from Kiev, Ukraine.

HE Mr A J Groenewald
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Georgian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr R Beridze
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Georgia

Parliament address:
8 Rustaveli Street
Tbilisi
Georgia
Tel: (995 32) 999-060
Secretariat of the Chairman

Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
4 Chitadze Street
Tbilisi
Georgia
Tel: (995-32) 989-377
Tel: (995-32)989-388
Fax: (995-32) 997-249

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

Citizens of the Republic of South Africa, Republic of Botswana and the Republic of Mauritius enjoy a visa-free regime for travelling and / or staying in Georgia for the period of one full year.

Nevertheless, these should apply for the respective immigration category visa if they intend to stay in Georgia for longer than one year or apply for the Temporary Residence Permit.

For further information, go to the website for the Embassy of Georgia.

Health Requirements

Immunisation against hepatitis A and hepatitis B is recommended for all Central European countries, including Georgia.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Subtropical mountainous to moderate. Average winter temperature: from + 3 to – 2 C, summer: from + 23 to + 26 C.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Georgia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa has a very substantial and diverse relationship with Germany. Cooperation between the two countries is multifaceted, wide-ranging and of a strategic nature, covering areas such as trade and investment, science and technology, development cooperation, climate change and energy, education and skills development, as well as cooperation on a range of multilateral issues.

The frequent high-level visits in both directions underline the strategic relationship between the two countries. Recent high-level visits and interactions included the successive visits of German chancellors: Dr Angela Merkel and Mr Olaf Scholz in February 2020 and May 2022, respectively. President Cyril Ramaphosa visited Germany on multiple occasions for multilateral events, such as the G20 Compact with Africa in 2021 and the G7 Summit in June 2022, during which he had bilateral meetings with the Chancellor.

The 10^th Binational Commission took place in March 2020 through a virtual teleconference due to the COVID-19 pandemic, co-chaired by the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, and German Federal Foreign Minister, Mr Heiko Maas.

South Africa is Germany’s largest trading partner in Africa. Trade statistics show that total trade increased from R244 billion in 2020 to R266.5 billion in 2021 and to R298 billion in 2022.

In 2019, South Africa experienced a trade surplus, which was a great milestone, the first ever in more than decade. South Africa’s export basket is characterised by more than 50% value-added products. These products range from cars and auto parts, machinery, fruits and nuts to chemicals. There is further notable export potential in the following sectors: agro-processing (organic food, beverages, wines, fish, fruits and nuts), auto parts, organic chemicals and electrotechnical products.

Germany is one of the leading investors in the South African economy. In 2020, according to figures published by the South African Reserve Bank, Germany invested R168 billion in South Africa, while it attracted R84 billion in investment from South Africa. Approximately 600 German companies are represented in South Africa. For the period 2010 to 2019, a total of 96 foreign direct investment projects were committed in South Africa from Germany. These projects represent a capex of R69.3 billion.

Germany further continues to demonstrate its confidence in the South African economy by reinvesting in their production plants. Volkswagen (VW) SA has injected R6.1 billion into the Uitenhage plant for the production of the new Polo. BMW SA has committed R6 billion in their plant to produce X3 models in South Africa. The latter also involves the upskilling of South African workers while introducing state-of-the-art technologies. Mercedes Benz (MBSA) followed suit by announcing their investment to an amount of R200 million in the second half of 2017 in AMG models in South Africa. This is after their R467-million investment together with Daimler in the C class sedan and C350 e plug models.

Tourism is another key focus area in the strategic relationship. Germany is, in normal non-COVID years, the third-largest source of overseas tourists to South Africa after the United Kingdom and the United States. The decline is tourism figures to South Africa can be attributed to the global COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in governments worldwide banning international travel.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Germany

HE Mr P S Sizani
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

German Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A Peschke
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Germany

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African passport holders require a visa to enter Germany.

For more information, contact the German Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

Proof of medical insurance must be produced prior to departure from South Africa.

COVID-19 restrictions

With effect from 1 August 2021, South Africa is no longer listed as aera of variant of concern, but “only” as high-risk area. The general travel ban has been lifted.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Germany is situated in the moderately cool Atlantic west wind zone and the eastern European continental climate. In winter, the average temperature is between 1,5 degrees Celsius in the lowland areas and -6 degrees Celsius in the mountains. In the warmest month of the year, July, temperatures are between 18 degrees Celsius in the low-lying regions and 20 degrees Celsius in the sheltered valleys of the south. It rains throughout the year but mostly during the summer season.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Euro. The currency is freely convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

South Africa and Germany have concluded 72 bilateral agreements, which provide a legal framework for cooperation in several areas. These include the major economic agreements such as the Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation with Respect to Taxes on Income; the Agreement Concerning Financial Cooperation; as well as the Exchange of Notes Concerning the Reprioritisation of Funds to the Renewable Energy Programme.

The Treaty Concerning Reciprocal Encouragement and Protection of Investment Plus Protocol was signed in 1995, but it was terminated in in 2014. South Africa has replaced these older generation Bilateral Investment Protection Agreements (BIPAs) with the Protection of Investment Act (PIA), which was signed into law in 2018. A number of countries, including Germany, have expressed concerns that the PIA leaves their companies without adequate protection. Agreements were concluded on Technical Cooperation in 2016 and Cooperation in the Field of Vocational Education and Training in 2019.

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Germany, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Tel: 011 486 2775

South African-German Cultural Association
Tel: 012 807 1280

History of Relations

South Africa and Ghana established formal diplomatic relations on 25 May 1994.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Ghana

Vacant
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Ghanaian Representation in South Africa

HE Ms F Ashietey-Odunton
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Ghana High Commission

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria.

Health requirements

While a valid international health certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever only is required, vaccination against hepatitis A and B and meningitis is also recommended. Preventative measures against malaria are strongly advised.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health

Climate Info

Ghana has an equatorial climate on the coast with high temperatures and increased humidity in the south-west, a dryer heat in the south-east and hot savannah in the north.

Average annual temperature in the capital, Accra, ranges from 26,7 degrees Celsius in January to 25 degrees Celsius in July, while annual rainfall averages 1 402 mm.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Cedi, divided into 100 pesewas. The symbol for the Cedi, which is not convertible outside Ghana, is “C”.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Ghana, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa established non-resident diplomatic relations with Grenada on 25 February 1998. This was followed by a visit by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Raphael Fletcher, who lead a Ministerial Trade Mission to South Africa and met with Minister Alfred Nzo and Deputy President Thabo Mbeki. Trade with Grenada during 1997 and 1998 was nevertheless too minimal to be reflected in official statistics.

South Africa’s first non-resident High Commissioner, Ms Thandi Luthuli-Gcabashe, presented her credentials in St George’s on 16 March 1999, at which time the local authorities expressed an interest in molasses and arts and crafts from South Africa.

Dr Theodore Ferguson, Grenada’s Honorary Consul in South Africa, is based in Johannesburg.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Grenada

The South African High Commission Kingston, Jamaica, is responsible for Grenada.

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Time difference: -7 hours

Grenadian Representation in South Africa

HE Ms F Sandy
Acting High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Grenadian High Commission

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

None. Passport should be valid for at least six months from date of entry.

Health Requirements

Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical; tempered by northeast trade winds.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD).

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Grenada, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa maintains good bilateral relations with Guatemala. The South African Ambassador to Mexico is also accredited as non-residential Ambassador to Guatemala.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Guatemala

South Africa is not residentially represented in Guatemala. Please contact the South African Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico.

HE Ms B R Sisulu
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Time difference with South Africa:

-8 hours (Winter – Oct – March)
-7 hours (Summer – April – Sept)

Guatemalan Representation in South Africa

Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Guatemala, with residence in Rabat, Morocco.

Vacant

Embassy of Guatemala

Honorary Consul
Mr P M Estrada Belli

Honorary Consulate in Cape Town, South Africa

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the South American Desk of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Visa Requirements for Guatemalan citizens visiting South Africa

For more information, contact the Embassy of South Africa in Mexico City, Mexico.

Health Requirements

Malaria – high risk below 1500 m – only Chloroquine needed.

Typhoid present – low risk.

Tetanus – immunisation recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Coastal and northern regions are hot throughout the year; highlands more temperate. Rainy season: June to October. The rest of the year is dry. Warmest temperatures are normally recorded from April to June.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Quetzal (GTQ).

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Guatemala, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Guinea established diplomatic relations on 16 February 1995.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Guinea

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Guinea Representation in South Africa

HE Mr M A Kone
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Guinea

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

South African passport holders require entry visas for Guinea. For more information, contact the Embassy of Guinea.

Health requirements

A valid international health certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever is required. Malaria is a high risk throughout the year.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Dry from December to May. Rainy from June to November. Heavy rain season from July to August.

For up-to-date weather information click here.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Guinea Frank.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Language

The official language is French. Local languages are Susu, Malinké and Fula.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Guinea, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Guinea-Bissau established formal diplomatic relations on 11 October 1994.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Guinea-Bissau

HE Mr M N Mbete
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Guinea-Bissau Representation in South Africa

No Representation

Honorary Consul
Vacant

Honorary Consul

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the South African Embassy in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau. South African passport holders require entry visas for Guinea-Bissau.

Health requirements

While a valid international health certificate proving vaccination against yellow fever only is required, vaccination against hepatitis A and B and meningitis is also recommended. Preventative measures against malaria are strongly advised.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Guinea-Bissau has a humid tropical climate. Average annual temperature in the capital, Bissau, ranges from 24,4 degrees C in January to 26,7 degrees C in July, while annual rainfall averages 1950 mm.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the CFA Franc, divided into 100 centimes. The currency is shared by the 15 member states of the “African Financial Community” (CFA). The symbol for the CFA Franc, which is not convertible outside the CFA Fanc zone, is “CFA”.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Guinea-Bissau, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Guyana established diplomatic relations on 4 November 1994. On 10 February 1999, South Africa’s first non-resident High Commissioner, Ms T Luthuli-Gcabashe, presented her credentials in Georgetown.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Guyana

The South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica, is responsible for Guyana.

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Time difference: -7 hours

Guyanese Representation in South Africa

Mr F E July
Acting High Commissioner

Guyanese High Commission

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica.

Health Requirements

Yellow fever certificate.

Malaria is present.

Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical; tempered by northeast trade winds. Rainy seasons from May to August and November to January.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD).

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Exports fall chiefly into the categories of base metals and machinery etc.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Guyana, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa established full diplomatic relations with the Republic of Haiti on 9 December 1997. High Commissioner TH Chiliza presented his credentials to the President of Haiti, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, on 3 October 2001, becoming South Africa’s second non-residential Ambassador to the Republic of Haiti

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Haiti

The South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica is responsible for Haiti.

HE Ms L E Yengeni
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Time difference with South Africa:
-7 hours (Winter – Oct – April)
-7 hours (Summer – April – Oct)

Haitian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr J J Baril
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Haiti Embassy

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

Visas are required by South African passport holders.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Visa Requirements for Haitian citizens visiting South Africa

For more information, contact the South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica.

Health Requirements

Malaria – only Chloroquine needed.

Yellow fever, if coming from infected areas.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Haitian Gourde (HTG).

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Haiti, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa maintains good bilateral relations with Honduras.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Honduras

South Africa is not residentially represented in Honduras. Please contact the South African Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico.

HE Ms B R Sisulu
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

-8 hours (Winter – Oct – March)
-7 hours (Summer – April – Sept)

Honduran Representation in South Africa

Honduras is not residentially represented in South Africa.

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Central American Desk of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Travel Advisory: Warning on illegal activities abroad

South African citizens travelling abroad are strongly advised to take care not to become involved in activities which may be, or are, illegal in foreign countries. Please remember, once you leave South Africa, you are not protected by South African laws and constitutional rights. If you are arrested abroad, the South African Government cannot get you out of prison or demand your release. At most, your government can intercede with local authorities to try and ensure that your rights under the laws of the country in which you were arrested are fully observed. It can also attempt to ensure that you are treated humanely, i.e., according to those international agreements to which the country in which you have been arrested, has acceded.

Please note that the South African Government views crimes – particularly those involving illegal drugs, mercenary activities, the traffic in humans or small arms or the abuse of women and children – in a most serious light.

Visa Requirements for Honduran citizens visiting South Africa

For more information, contact the South African Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico.

Health Requirements

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical with colder more temperate weather in the mountainous interior. The north coast extremely hot with strong sun and rain throughout the year. The dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Lempira (HNL).

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Honduras, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

A South African Office of Interest was opened in April 1990 in Budapest, followed by the opening of the Hungarian Office of Interest in Pretoria and a Hungarian commercial office in Johannesburg in November 1990. Full diplomatic relations were established in July 1991. Subsequently, a Hungarian Consulate General was opened in Cape Town.

During April 1999, former President Nelson Mandela paid a State Visit to Hungary at the invitation of President Árpád Göncz. This was his last State Visit to a European capital before retiring from office.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Hungary

HE Mr G M Tsengiwe
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Hungarian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A G Horvath
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Hungarian Embassy

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African citizens need a visa to visit Hungary.

For more information, contact the Hungarian Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers coming from an infected area.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Hungary is in the continental zone and has a temperate climate. The number of hours of sunshine averages between 1 900 and 2 500 a year. The average temperature in January is -1 degrees Celsius -3 degrees Celsius and in July, 20 degrees Celsius to 26 degrees Celsius. The annual average precipitation is 650 mm. The negative effects of weather fronts are diminished by the Alps and the Carpathian Mountains.

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, especially March to June and September to October.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). The Forint is fully convertible.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa’s main exports to Hungary include iron ore, steel, coal, fruit and vegetables, spices and cut flowers. Hungary’s main exports to South Africa include machinery, electronic equipment and meat (pork) products.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Hungary, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Hungarian Business Forum of South Africa

PO Box 72312

Lynnwood Ridge

0040

Tel/Fax: 012 477 078

History of Relations

Relations between South Africa and Iceland are cordial and regulated on a government-to-government basis. The Icelandic Government joined the other Nordic countries during the apartheid period in supporting the struggle for democracy in South Africa. Formal diplomatic relations were established in 1995 on an ambassadorial level on a non-residential basis.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Iceland

HE Ms D Kotze
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (non-resident Ambassador to Iceland, resident in Oslo, Norway)

South African Embassy

Icelandic Representation in South Africa

HE Mr G Eiriksson
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (Non-resident Ambassador to South Africa, resident in New Delhi, India).

Embassy of Iceland

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

Iceland joined the Schengen agreement on 25 March 2001. Holders of South African passports must be in possession of a valid visa before entering Iceland. Stays longer than 90 days require a residence permit.

Health requirements

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate is temperate oceanic. The Gulf Stream keeps Iceland warmer than might be expected, with average temperatures ranging from 10,6 degrees centigrade in summer (July) to -0,5 degrees centigrade in winter (January).

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Icelandic Krona (plural Kronur) divided into 100 aurar.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa’s exports to Iceland include precious and semi-precious stones, natural and cultured pearls, railway and tramway locomotives, machinery and mechanical appliances, prepared foodstuffs as well as electrical machinery and equipment. South Africa mainly imports products such as optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus, clocks and watches and musical instruments. South Africa also imports machinery and mechanical appliances, prepared foodstuffs, electrical machinery and plastics.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Iceland, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and India enjoy a Strategic Partnership and bilateral relations are anchored in a deep and shared history of friendship and solidarity. India, which gained independence in 1947, was an active supporter of the international liberation struggle and also a staunch supporter of the fight for freedom and democracy in South Africa. India was at the forefront of efforts to isolate the Apartheid Government. India played a key role within the Non-Aligned Movement and within the United Nations in promoting the struggle for liberation and in enhancing South-South cooperation.

The bond between South Africa and India is also cemented through the South African population, which is from Indian descent. The first Indians arrived in South Africa over 150 years ago as indentured labourers and have deep roots in South African society. South Africans from Indian descent have contributed immensely to the development and enrichment of South African society.

Full diplomatic relations with India were established on 22 November 1993. The South African Mission in New Delhi started functioning on 1 November 1993. The first visit by a South African Head of State to India took place in 1997 when President Nelson Mandela laid the foundation for the Strategic Partnership between the two countries with the signing of the Red Fort Declaration. President Cyril Ramaphosa paid a State Visit to India in 2019 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited South Africa in 2016 and again in 2018 when he attended the BRICS Summit.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in India

HE Prof. A Sooklal
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

*Also accredited to Bangladesh and Nepal.

South African High Commission

(SAST + 3,5 hours)

Indian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr P Kumar
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Indian High Commission

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Indian High Commission in Pretoria or one of the Consulates General in Johannesburg, Durban or Cape Town.

Health Requirements

Immunisation against hepatitis A and B is strongly recommended before departure from South Africa. Immunisation against diphtheria, meningitis, typhoid and Japanese encephalitis is also recommended.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is not required from travellers coming from South Africa unless traversing through a yellow fever area. Travellers are encouraged to consult a travel medicine practitioner.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

New Delhi is at an altitude of 216 metre above sea level in north central India. The weather in the capital is most pleasant during the temperate months from October to November and February to March. These periods are characterised by cool nights and warm days. In the winter months (December and January), the temperature can become surprisingly cold. From April through to mid-July, daytime temperatures often top 45-49 degrees C. The nights cool off somewhat but are still hot. From mid-July to September, the occasional Monsoon rains create high humidity and high temperatures. For this reason, it is advisable to visit India from mid-September to early April.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The Indian unit of currency is the Rupee (abbreviated Rs) which is divided into 100 paise. There are coins of 50 paise and of 1, 2, 5 and 10 rupees. Banknotes exist in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 2000 rupees.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Outgoing

• January 2019: President Ramaphosa paid a State Visit to India

Incoming

• July 2016: Official Visit to South Africa by Indian Prime Minister Modi

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

The most important products exported to India are mineral products, wood, pulp and paper, iron and steel products, chemicals, machinery, precious metal, vegetables, wood products, photographic and medical equipment and vehicles, aircraft and vessels.

South Africa’s imports from India are dominated by mineral products, vehicles, aircraft and vessels, chemicals, machinery, iron and steel products, vegetables, textiles, plastic and rubber, equipment components and precious metal.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and India, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and the Republic of Indonesia established diplomatic relations in August 1994. Consequently, the South African Embassy was established in Jakarta in January 1995. The first South African Ambassador to Indonesia, HE Mr B S Kubheka, presented his credentials to President Soeharto on 28 March 1996.

South African – Indonesian Relations

An overview of Indonesia
Basic Facts about Indonesia
Statistics on Indonesia
Useful Links on Indonesia
Tourism Information on Indonesia

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Indonesia 

HE Mr M K Lekgoro
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Indonesia Representation in South Africa

HE Mr Saud Purwanto Krisnawan
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Consular Section of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia.

Health Info

1. Stick to bottled water
   Don’t drink water from a tap, even in the most luxurious resorts. Ice in drinks, however, should not cause concern, as ice vendors in Jakarta operate under strict government guidelines.
2. Malaria
   Use mosquito repellent and cover up at night. The use of anti-malaria prophylactics advised when travelling to eastern Indonesia, though in Jakarta itself, malaria is not considered a problem.
3. Food
   Eat only at established hotels and restaurants, as food at traditional food stalls (warung) and hawker carts (kaki lima) may look enticing, but unless one’s system is adjusted to the vagaries of local food preparation, they are best avoided.
4. Vaccinations
   It is strongly recommended that vaccinations for tetanus and both hepatitis A and B be taken.
5. General
   Be sure to guard against sunburn, dehydration and heat exhaustion. Patent medicines are available at numerous pharmacies (apotik) but watch the dosage and chemical ingredients as Indonesian drugs tend to be stronger than the norm.

·         Indonesian Ministry of Health

·         Travellers’ Health

·         WHO Representative Office in Indonesia

Climate Info

1. Seasons
Lying some 80 degrees (372 km) south of the equator, Jakarta has a tropical Monsoon climate. The city is hot and humid year-round. The long rainy season falls between late October and early May, though rain occurs throughout the year, averaging 1 791 mm. Rains tend to come in short heavy bursts, but even during the rainy season, it doesn’t rain every day. It rains on only a handful of days during the dry season from July to September.

2. Humidity
Afternoon humidity averages around 70% but is higher during the morning. Temperatures are fairly even throughout the year, averaging approximately 32 degrees Celsius maximum and 25 degrees Celsius minimum. Jakarta gets a steady supply of 12 hours daylight throughout the year, though it is often filtered through cloud cover. In the dry season, the skies are clearer, though Jakarta’s pollution and the dust haze along the coast mean that clear blue skies are rare. Mornings are sunnier than the afternoons.

3. Heat
Jakarta’s heat is legendary among its inhabitants, especially the expatriate community, though it is no hotter than most other Indonesian cities. Jakarta is hotter in the evenings than the inland cities, with the city trapping much of the heat.

Many expatriates as well as the local population flee to the mountains over the weekends (Puncak and Bogor, one-and-a-half hours’ drive from Jakarta) where the air is cleaner and much cooler than Jakarta. During the rainy season, the temperatures drop dramatically in the evenings and it is not uncommon to find log fires being lit in many homes.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Rupiah. The symbol for the Rupiah is “Rp” (or international abbreviation: “IDR”). The following denominations are available: Coins (Rp 25.00, Rp 50.00, Rp 100.00, Rp 500.00, Rp 1000.00), and Notes (Rp 500.00, Rp 1000.00, Rp 5000.00, Rp 10 000.00, Rp 20 000.00, Rp 50 000.00).

For current exchange rates:

·         Bank Indonesia
·         OANDA Currency Converter

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Main exports: prepared foods, pulp and paper. Main imports: vegetable products, fats and oils, plastics, rubber, timber, pulp, paper, footwear, stone, plaster and textiles.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Indonesia, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Indonesia South Africa Business Forum
Chairperson: Micky A Hehuwat

Tel: 09 62 21 765 3053/2340
Fax: 09 62 21 769 0542

History of Relations

South Africa and Iran enjoy an historical and fraternal relationship, with both countries interacting regularly, notably though the Joint Commission of Cooperation (JCC), established in 1995. The JCC covers the entire spectrum of sectoral cooperation. The subcommittees of the JCC include Political, Tourism, Finance and Banking, Trade and Investment, Science and Technology, Arts and Culture, Defence and Security, Health, Education and Water and Sanitation. The JCC is co-chaired by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran.

For the two countries to review progress and work towards the implementation of the decisions and outcomes of the JCC, an inter-sessional mechanism, called the Deputy Ministerial Working Group (DMWG), was established.

Furthermore, South Africa and Iran also established the Structured Dialogue Forum (SDF) on Human Rights as a stand-alone mechanism.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Iran

HE Dr S F Moloi
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Iranian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr M Shakib Mehr
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Travel Info

For any enquiries regarding Iranian visa requirements for South Africans, please contact the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pretoria on 012 001 0555 or visit the Embassy’s website at Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran – Pretoria (mfa.gov.ir)

Health requirements

General health information is available on the website for the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

The Islamic Republic experiences high temperature variations between winter and summer, and has a continental climate in the north, with cold winters and hot summers, while the climate is subtropical in the central-southern part, where winters are a bit milder, and summers are scorching and sunny. In the northernmost part, winter is very cold because of the influence of cold air masses coming from the arctic.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Iranian Rial (IR).

Electronic currency converters indicate the official rate, which is a highly subsidised rate utilised only by government for essential food imports. The exchange rate utilised on a day-to-day basis in the country is known as the commercial exchange rate with the IRR trading at a much higher rate to the US dollar or euro.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Former Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa undertook an Official Visit to Tehran, IR of Iran, from 7 to 9 November 2015.

Former President Jacob Zuma undertook a State Visit to Tehran from 24 to 25 April 2016.

Former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif undertook an Official Visit to Pretoria, South Africa, in June 2018.

Minister Naledi Pandor undertook a visit to Tehran, Iran, on 16 October 2019 to co-chair the 14th Session of the South Africa-Iran Joint Commission of Cooperation

Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini undertook a visit to Tehran, Iran, from 21 to 24 May 2022 to co-chair the 10th Session of the Deputy Ministerial Working Group.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Iraq established its diplomatic relations with South Africa in August 1998.

An Iraqi government delegation, which included the Iraqi Deputy President, attended South Africa’s first Presidential inauguration in Pretoria during 1994. During October 1995, an official Iraqi delegation attended the United Nations (UN) Conference on Trade and Development Conference in South Africa. During the visit, informal discussions were held with the Desk. The first official visit to Iraq by a South African delegation took place during November1996. During the visit, meetings were held with various Iraqi ministers, including Foreign Minister Al-Sahaf. The delegation also visited Kuwait, Jordan and the Arab League to consult on South Africa’s approach to relations with Baghdad. The Iraqi authorities were informed that South Africa wanted to normalise its relations with Kuwait, including the establishment of a diplomatic mission in Kuwait City. The Iraqi Deputy President, Mr Taha Yassin Ramadan, Foreign Minister Mr Al-Sahaf, as well as the Senior Under Secretary, Mr Nizar Hamdoun, attended the Non-Alignment Movement Conference that was held in Durban during September 1998. During the conference, Deputy President Thabo Mbeki met with Mr Yassin Ramadan. Diplomatic relations with Iraq were concluded during November 1998 by means of an exchange of notes through the countries’ respective missions in New York.

Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad led the first significant business delegation consisting of 30 South African companies to Iraq during November 1999. During the visit, Deputy Minister Pahad held bilateral discussions with the Deputy President of Iraq, Mr  Yassin Ramadan; the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Tariq Aziz; and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Oil, Trade, Industry, and Health and Senior Under Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr Nizar Hamdoun. In addition, he also met with the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, Mr Hans von Sponeck, and the Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Deputy Minister Pahad visited Iraq and the region in April 2001. Discussions were held with, among others, Deputy Prime Minister Mr Tariq Aziz and the Senior Deputy Minister for Oil, Mr Hamad. There was an agreement to encourage South African private-sector companies and state enterprises to get involved in a significant way with the UN Oil for Food Programme and the general reconstruction of the Iraqi economy and infrastructure, which was severely hit by 10 years of UN sanctions.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Iraq

Currently, there is no South African residential diplomatic representation in Iraq. The South African Embassy in Amman, Jordan is responsible for relations with Iraq.

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Mr M E Mahlulo

South African Embassy

Iraqi Representation in South Africa

In 2001, Iraq upgraded its representation in South Africa to the rank of the Ambassador.

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Republic of Iraq

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Iraqi Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

There is a malaria risk between May and November: Prophylactics may be required. Hepatitis A and B immunisation is recommended. Tetanus immunisation is recommended for rural travel. Typhoid is present in certain areas.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Dry and hot in the summer and warm winters with some rain

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Iraqi Dinar. US Dollars are useful for visitors but due to the economic embargo, the Iraqi Dinar is not pegged to international exchange rates.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Iraq, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Ireland was the only European Union member country, which did not have full diplomatic relations with South Africa until the dawn of democratic South Africa. The establishment of diplomatic relations with Ireland was announced on 5 October 1993 and the Irish Embassy was opened in Pretoria in 1994. The South African Embassy in Dublin was opened in 1995.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Ireland

HE Ms N Schreiber
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Ireland Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A Gormley
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Ireland

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Irish Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

Please contact the Irish Embassy at Tel: 012 342 5062.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

The climate of Ireland is equable and temperatures are fairly uniform over the whole country. The coldest months are January and February, which have daily temperatures of between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius while July and August are the warmest with temperatures between 14 and 16 degrees Celsius.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Euro.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa’s main exports are crude minerals, coal and anthracite, dust/powder of precious stones and wood.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Ireland, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

Irish-South Africa Trade Association

History of Relations

Israel established a Legation in South Africa in 1952 and in 1974, it was upgraded to an Embassy. In 1972, South Africa established a Consulate General in Tel Aviv, which was upgraded to an Embassy in December 1975. Israel continued to enjoy close relations with the Apartheid Government in South Africa. Following the democratic transition in South Africa and the establishment of full diplomatic relations with Palestine, after South Africa adopted an approach, which favours resolution of the Israeli-Arab conflict through peaceful negotiations, on the basis of the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

In September 1995, former Foreign Minister, Alfred B Nzo, paid an Official Visit to Israel and signed an Agreement establishing a Joint Commission of Cooperation with the Israeli Government. The first meeting of this Joint Commission took place in June 1996. On this occasion, five bilateral agreements were negotiated for cooperation in the following spheres: Agriculture, Tourism, Culture, Environment and Science, as well as Nature Conservation.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Israel

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Israeli Representation in South Africa

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Israel

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

Visas are not required for South African passport holders not intending to stay for more than three months. Persons holding temporary or emergency passports are excluded, and it is imperative for persons with such travel documents to obtain visas prior to departure.

Health Requirements

Tetanus immunisation is recommended for travel to rural areas.

For further information, go to Travellers’ health.

Climate Info

Winters are cool and rainy (from mid-November to mid-February). Summers on the other hand can be very hot during June to August, especially in the south.

For up-to-date weather information, click here

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the New Israeli Shekel.

For current exchange rates, click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

Visits and interactions between South Africa and Israel include a courtesy call by Mr Marius Fransman, former South African Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, and Mr Danny Ayalon, Israeli Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, on 20 November 2011; a visit to South Africa by Ambassador Avraham Granot, Deputy Director-General: Africa at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs in November 2011, as well as in December 2012; a meeting between Mr Paul Mashatile, then South African Minister of Arts and Culture and Ms Limor Livnat, Israeli Minister of Culture and Sport, on 27 February 2012, in South Africa; and a meeting between Mr Derek Hanekom, then Deputy Minister of Science and Technology with Rabbi Professor Daniel Hershkowitz, Israeli Minister of Science and Technology in September 2012.

Ambassador Sharon Bar-Li, the Deputy Director-General of the Africa Division, at the Israeli Foreign Ministry, visited South Africa and held a meeting with the Acting Deputy Director-General, Branch: Asia & Middle East, Ambassador NM Lallie, on 26 January 2023, at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

There is currently limited political and diplomatic interaction between South Africa and Israel, mainly due to Israel’s antagonistic attitude towards the Middle East Peace Process and disregard for International Law regarding the rights of the Palestinians and their territories. South Africa’s baseline is that Israel must return to negotiations and create favourable conditions for peaceful negotiations.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Israel, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Italy maintain excellent relations covering the full range of activities, both on a governmental level as well as in the private sector.

In 2003, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of South Africa and Italy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Bilateral Consultations establishing a framework for regular bilateral consultations at Ministerial or Deputy Ministerial level and regular meetings at Senior Officials level.

The focus remains on sustaining political dialogue and increasing economic cooperation between South Africa and Italy, focussing on the priorities of the National Development Plan (NDP). Both countries have signed a number of agreements in various areas of cooperation in fields such as science and technology, defence, police and water, among others, and are in the process of exploring further areas of cooperation in sectors such as environment.

Italy views South Africa as a strategic partner and a leader on the African continent. It is the eighth-largest economy in the world and a member of the G20 and the G7. South Africa’s economic relations with Italy are strong and there is a growing interest in South Africa as an investment destination.

President Cyril Ramaphosa met with the Prime Minister of Italy, Mr Giuseppe Conte, on the margins of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, in June 2019, and also on the margins of the G7 Summit in Biarritz, France, on 26 August 2019. The principals deliberated on issues of common interest, including peace and security in Africa, defence cooperation and the expansion of economic relations between the two countries.

Italy and South Africa have engaged in a strategic partnership as equals based on shared values and converging interests, which include supporting peace, security and development in Africa, strengthening and reforming the multilateral system and promoting a more inclusive, efficient and equitable system of global governance.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Italy

Vacant
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Italian Representation in South Africa

HE Mr A Vecchi
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Italian Embassy

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Consular Section of the Italian Embassy in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

May apply from time to time and the local Italian Embassy must be contacted in this regard.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

Summer (May to September) is the hottest in the south. Spring and autumn are mild and sunny. Winter in the south is drier and warmer than in the north. Mountain regions are colder with heavy snowfalls in winter.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Precautions

Pickpocketing and baggage theft can occur, especially at railway stations and airports.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Euro.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Statistics

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Italy, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Trade Info

Economic Relations with South Africa

Trade

Italy was instrumental in having the European Union (EU) economic sanctions lifted following the normalisation of political activity in South Africa and was the first member of the EU to sign an economic agreement with South Africa.

Italy is one of South Africa’s leading trading partners. South Africa’s main exports to Italy are gold and coal, and also include laminated iron and steel, machines, non-electrical appliances, hides and skins, fruit, granite and wool, while South African imports from Italy consist mainly of machine tools, office and other electronic equipment, industrial machinery and telecommunications equipment.

Italy is the world’s largest producer of gold jewellery and a large consumer of coal, which are both available in vast quantities in South Africa. Gold and coal are South Africa’s major export commodities to Italy. There is also scope for increased exports of platinum, titanium and ferro alloys.

Interest Groups and Information

1. Italian South African Chamber of Commerce

Johannesburg

Tel: (011) 728 89 13

Fax: (011) 728 8917

President: Dr Castellari

2. Italian Club Pretoria (Club Sociale Italiano)

Tel: (012) 335 2982

Fax: (012) 335 2580

Comites (Association of Italians Abroad)

Tel : (011) 880 9003

Pres Dr M Mariano

3. Italian Foreign Trade Commission

42 Chester Road

2193 Parkwood Johannesburg

PO Box 1261

2121 Parklands

South Africa

Director: Ms Bruna Santarelli

Tel: (011) 8808383

Fax: (011) 8809040 / 8809041

E-mail: johannesburg@johannesburg.ice.it

OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION

www.sudafrica.it

SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM

Ms Lidia Martinuzzi

Manager

Via Mascheroni, 19 (5th floor)

20145 Milan

Email: info@turismosudafricano.com

www.turismosudafricano.com

OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION

www.sudafrica.it

Stats SA

SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM

Ms Lidia Martinuzzi

Manager

Via Mascheroni, 19 (5th floor)

20145 Milan

Email: info@turismosudafricano.com

www.turismosudafricano.com

History of Relations

South Africa established non-resident diplomatic relations with Jamaica on 9 September 1994. In 1999, South Africa appointed Ambassador T Luthuli-Qcbashe as first non-resident High Commissioner to Jamaica and the rest of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) with residence in Caracas, Venezuela, while High Commissioner TH Chiliza, based in Kingston, assumed duty as the first resident representative in October 2000.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Jamaica

Vacant
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African High Commission

Jamaican Representation in South Africa

HE Ms J T Edwards
High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Jamaican High Commission

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

None. Ensure passport is valid for a minimum of six months from date of entry.

Health Requirements

Yellow fever: Only individuals traveling from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, as listed on the World Health Organisation (WHO) International Travel and Health website, are required to provide proof of vaccination for entry into Jamaica.

1. Persons transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, as listed on the current WHO International Travel and Health website, will not be required to provide proof vaccination if the stay is for 12 hour or less.

Hepatitis A and B – immunisation recommended.

Tetanus – immunisation recommended.

Drinking water – exercise caution.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Tropical; temperate interior.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD).

For up-to-date information click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

Exports fall chiefly into the categories of chemicals etc. and machinery etc. Imports fall chiefly into the category of prepared foodstuffs, beverages, spirits and vinegar, tobacco, etc.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Jamaica, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

Political

South Africa established a Consulate General in November 1962 at the Imperial Hotel (Tokyo). Consular relations were upgraded to full diplomatic relations on 13 January 1992. During this period, Japan’s relations with South Africa remained limited, including supporting United Nations sanctions. Full diplomatic relations were only established after 1994. Former President Nelson Mandela visited Japan in July 1995. Mr Mandela paid tribute to those who had contributed to the struggle against apartheid and stated that with the ending of apartheid, South Africa’s relations with Japan could only grow from strength to strength.

Economic

Bilateral trade between Japan and South Africa had been expanding since the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1992.

The first Japan-South Africa Business Forum between business organisations was launched in Tokyo on 3 October 2001, during the State Visit by former President Thabo Mbeki and has become an important mechanism which facilitates business relations between South Africa and Japan.

TICAD (Tokyo International Conference on African Development)

The Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) was launched in 1993 to provide assistance to Africa.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Japan

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.
Ms A Schroeder

South African Embassy

Japanese Representation in South Africa

HE Mr Fumio Shimizu
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Japan

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information, contact the Embassy of Japan in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

No immunisation before departure from South Africa is necessary. Malaria is not a problem in Japan. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from an infected area.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate

Tokyo is hot and humid during the summer months of June, July and August and cold and dry in winter. July is known as the rainy season and that September is the monsoon season. Temperatures from June to August can go up to 38 degrees C with a humidity level of 70 – 90% or more.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Yen. The Japanese make use of both Yen coins and Yen bank notes. The smallest note is a 1000 Yen note and the smallest coin is the one Yen coin. The currency is often referred to as the “en”, and abbreviated to Y. The symbol for Yen is “Y. The currency is freely convertible. Japan is a cash-based society. Even though credit cards are used freely in Japan, it is still recommended that travellers be always in possession of Yen.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa’s exports to Japan consist mainly of mineral products, base metals and agricultural produce, including precious stones and metals, iron and steel, ores, aluminium, wood, mineral fuel and oil, salt, sulphur, earth, stone, inorganic chemicals, sugars, preserved food, fish and seafood.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Japan, visit the website the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

South Africa-Japan Parliamentary Friendship League

South African Trade Association

Springbok Club, contact person is Mr Toshio Makiura at Tel: 8144 954 8991.

History of Relations

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan was the first Arab country to establish full diplomatic relations with South Africa in 1993. In December 1994, South Africa established a resident mission in Amman.

In April 1996, the late king Hussein led a delegation attending an UNCTAD Conference in South Africa. This attendance was upgraded to the level of a State Visit. During October 1999, the former President Nelson Mandela briefly visited Amman and his visit did much to enhance the bilateral relationship.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Jordan

H E Ms T Mokuena
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South Africa Embassy

Jordanian Representation in South Africa

HE Dr W A A Ayyad
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

The Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

All passport holders are advised to obtain visas in advance to visiting Jordan. Visas can be obtained on arrival, but it is far easier and less time consuming if they have been issued in advance.

Health Requirements

Tetanus immunisation is recommended for rural areas.

For further information, go to Travellers’ Health.

Climate Info

Hot, dry summers – cool evenings (April – October). Rain in winter (November – March).

For up-to-date weather information, click here.

Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Jordanian Dinar.

For current exchange rates, click here.

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties, please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Jordan, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

History of Relations

South Africa and Kazakhstan established full diplomatic relations on 5 March 1992. In December 2003, South Africa established its resident Embassy in Almaty. In 2008, the South African Embassy relocated to Astana. In December 2013, Kazakhstan opened a residential Embassy in Pretoria.

Diplomatic Representation