{"id":235,"date":"2024-02-16T08:46:49","date_gmt":"2024-02-16T08:46:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/?page_id=235"},"modified":"2024-07-13T21:13:10","modified_gmt":"2024-07-13T12:13:10","slug":"frequently-asked-questions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/frequently-asked-questions\/","title":{"rendered":"FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"235\" class=\"elementor elementor-235\" data-elementor-post-type=\"page\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"aux-parallax-section elementor-element elementor-element-a23f00c e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"a23f00c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ccdb7af elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"ccdb7af\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a15c959 elementor-widget elementor-widget-template\" data-id=\"a15c959\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"template.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-template\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"single-page\" data-elementor-id=\"686\" class=\"elementor elementor-686\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"aux-parallax-section elementor-element elementor-element-de26051 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"de26051\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9be1d99 elementor-widget elementor-widget-elementskit-faq\" data-id=\"9be1d99\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"elementskit-faq.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ekit-wid-con\" >\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-224e946\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">I want to renew my passport, what must I do?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                South African passports are not renewable. You must apply for a new passport when it expires.              <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-5ea039c\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">My passport has not expired but I am running out of pages, can I have pages added to it?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Unfortunately pages can not be added to South African passports. You must apply for a new passport instead. If you travel frequently, you may opt for a maxi passport.             <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-f79d9f1\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">I already have a passport, do I still need to fill up all those forms?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Yes, all three forms (BI-73, BI-9 and BI-529) are required when applying for a South African passport.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-020b3b5\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">I already have a passport, do I need to submit a copy of my ID\/birth certificate?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Yes. The South African passport alone is not sufficient. You must present a copy of your ID\/birth certificate.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-90c51ec\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">I am a dual citizen, but I don\u2019t know where my letter of retention\/exemption is.<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Request a copy from the office which issued your original letter of retention \/ exemption. Without it, your application for a new South African passport will not be accepted.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-060c049\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">I am a naturalized citizen, and I don\u2019t have my naturalization certificate.<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Your application for a passport will be deemed incomplete without the naturalization certificate.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-fc8c299\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">What is BI-73 form?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                South African citizens who are 16 years or older need to sign (the form) and to submit left thumbprint (w).            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-57adf35\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-73: I recently got married in the Japan and need to change my name. Which form do I need to fill up for name change?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                If you want to use your married name or double-barrel name, all you need to do is apply for a new passport using that name and submit a notarized \/ certified copy of your marriage certificate.\nMarried applicants using maiden or double-barrel names must provide a letter requesting the new passport to be in the applicant's maiden name or double-barrel name..\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-3a6ac32\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-73: The mother\/father of my child is not here to sign section C, what do I do?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Home Affairs will not accept a minor's application for passport without both parents' signatures unless there is a legal document provided. If you are divorced, you have to show proof in your divorce decree that you have both sole custody and guardianship of the child. (Sole custody is not enough). If the divorce decree does not specify custody and guardianship, you will need to get the other parent\u2019s approval \/ signature.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-095e94c\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-73: Section D, how do answer question B?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Section D means so you have citizenship of another country beside your South African citizenship. Just put \u2018yes or no\u2019\nQuestion B is merely asking whether you have had a South African passport. If yes, write down your passport number and when it was issued.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-22ac1e2\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: I already have an ID book, do I need to fill this form?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Yes, BI-9 is not an application for an ID book or ID card. It is part of passport application and South Africans 16 years or older have to fill this form.\nDo not send form BI-9 blank with just your fingerprints. Fill up the reverse side and sign it or it will be returned to you.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-3ed2982\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: Home Affairs already has my fingerprints on file, do I really really need this form?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Yes, you still need to fill up BI-9. Please make sure you submit this form to avoid delay in processing your application.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-02b9423\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: In the Japan, police stations do not manually take fingerprints, but are taken electronically on cards. <\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Home Affairs will not accept fingerprints which not on the BI-9 form. If you are having problems in your area, you can come in to the  South African Embassy to have your fingerprints taken. We are open Mondays to Fridays, between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-c45de9f\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: How do I fill the &quot;personal status&quot; ?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Only naturalized citizens need to fill up this line. If you were born in South Africa you may skip this.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-27c431c\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: I do not have my parents ID number for the &quot;supporting document&quot;?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Please call your father and\/or mother and ask.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-aa2d069\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: My spouse is not South African and does not have an ID number, what do I do?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Write down \"\u2018Japanese  citizen\" (or other citizenship which applies) across.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-d46f24b\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: On &quot;remarks&quot; what do I put in?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                You do not have to put in anything unless there is something you need to explain.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-0d650ee\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: The police officer\/notary public does not have an ID number, what do they put in where it says \u2018fingerprints taken\u2026.\u201d<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                The police officer\/notary public may write his\/her name as the person taking the fingerprints with badge number instead of ID number.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-4ef2952\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI-9: Where it says left\/rights prints, do I put in my whole hand or just the palms?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                You need to put your four fingers together (do not include the thumb) and put those prints.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-3539ece\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI 529: I am already a South African citizen, why do need to fill this form?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                All South African citizens abroad have to fill up the BI-529 form. If you do not submit this form, your application will be returned as incomplete.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-6837762\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI 529: What does Question 9 mean?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                (a) means when did you leave South Africa to stay abroad. Please do not count vacations in RSA.\n\n(b) is why. State whatever reasons you had for leaving.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-9272ab9\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI 529: I do not know my parents\u2019 ID numbers.<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Call your parents, siblings and\/or other relatives and ask.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-b54e52c\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI 529: I do not know my parents\u2019 details.<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                If they are still alive, call and ask.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-592c565\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI 529: One or both my parents are deceased and I do not have any details.<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Fill in as much information as possible, (i.e. full names) and write on top \u2018deceased\u2019.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-eaa1e60\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">BI 529: I am an adult and I do not need my parents to apply for a passport, can I leave section C and D blank?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                No. South African passport applicants 16 years and older are required to fill up sections C and D.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-31deb30\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Identity Documents<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                All South African citizens 16 years and older are eligible to apply for new identity documents. \nFirst time passport applicants, especially children who left South Africa as minors, must have identity documents. Applicants are required to appear at the nearest South African Consulate\/Embassy to have their fingerprints taken. Parents are urged to ensure that their children apply for their ID books as this ensure their children's identity (fingerprints) are registered in South Africa thus preventing anyone else from using their particulars in South Africa.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-e5cbce7\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Validity of a South African passports<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                South African passports are valid as follows:\n\nChild passport (32 pages) 5 years, provided the passport is not mutilated, washed and includes clear\/empty pages\nRegular passport (32 pages) 10 years, provided the passport is not mutilated, washed and includes clear\/empty pages\nMaxi passport (64 pages) 10 years, provided the passport is not mutilated, washed and includes clear\/empty pages\nExtra pages or recent photos may not be inserted into a valid passport \n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-e288906\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">How long is process time for CIVIC Service application?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Please bear in mind that all applications are forwarded to Pretoria for processing.  The waiting period for any South African document is approximately between six (6) to ten (10) months. The Embassy has no influence on the processing time of the Department of Home Affairs.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-1ea8dc3\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Does the Consular section take fingerprints?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                The Consular Section is where fingerprints are taken, in the following cases:\nYou are older than 15\u00bd and applying to register your birth.\nYou are older than 15\u00bd and applying for a South African passport.\nYou are older than 15\u00bd and applying for a South African ID document (Green Booklet).            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-7e933d0\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Can I Travel with my baby to South Africa with his\/her foreign passport?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                If the birth is not register yet, Yes. Japanese passport holders are exempt for 90 days, however If visit is longer than 90 days a visitor\u2019s visa is required. You are requested to register your infant as a South African citizen in Pretoria through the Embassy as soon as possible.  This process may take approximately six (6) months. Once the infant is registered, you have the possibility of applying for a South African child passport.  This process may also take up to an additional six (6) months. These two applications can be done simultaneously. In cases of emergencies (illness, death in the family), please approach the Consular Section for possible assistance for an Emergency Traveling Certificate.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-cee2355\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">I applied at South African Embassy in Japan, however, would like to pick up my passport in South Africa.  Is this possible?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                The Embassy cannot change the delivery direction of any South African document. If the document was applied for through the Embassy in Japan, it will be delivered to the Embassy by Diplomatic Bag from Pretoria. When the document reaches the Embassy, you will be informed by e-mail accordingly. You will be required to collect your document in person. If you live more than 200 km from the Embassy, you will be requested to forward a self-addressed stamped envelope. If you have submitted a self-addressed-stamped envelope while completing your application, then the document will be forwarded to your address accordingly. Collection of documents from Home Affairs in Pretoria must be agreed and arranged by the applicant.             <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-1ff951e\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Can I apply for Emergency certificate?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Emergency certificates are issued after obtaining approval from the Department of Home Affairs in Pretoria and for the following reasons:\nYou have lost your passport in Japan and need to return to South Africa\nYou are being deported by the Japanese authorities.\nYou have a family member who is ill (doctor\u2019s certificate required)\nYou have a family member who has passed away (death certificate required)\nAn emergency certificate is a one-way trip to South Africa on a direct flight.  You must make sure you have a current valid South African passport to return to Japan.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-90b7cb5\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">I am selling property in South Africa; I need the assistance of the commissioner of oath.<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Please set up an appointment with the Embassy through email. Please make sure that:\nAll documents are in English language including the instructions received from your lawyer and correctly prepared.\nYou will be unable to forward or receive any new pages by e-mail using your telephone.\nDocuments up to 10 pages will be processed the same morning free of charge.\nDocuments 11 pages and more will be processed on the following Monday and will be forwarded to you by mail. Please provide a self-addressed-stamped envelope for the return of the documents.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-265d692\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">How long does it take to process a visa?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                It takes fourteen (14) working days provided all the documents are completed.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-1ead3d2\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Do I need a Transit Visa?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                 Non-exempt foreign passport holder who is in transit in the Republic of South Africa on enroute (by air, road or rail) must apply to be issued with a transit visa at a South African Embassy if they are required or plan  to leave the transit area, before proceeding to the Republic of South Africa.\nIn the case of air transit, be issued for a period not exceeding 24 Hours.\nIn the case of land transit, be issued for a period not exceeding 48 Hours\n\nPlease note that all foreigners who are in transit and in possession of a valid ticket for a connecting flight to any other country) are not required to apply for a transit visa if they remain in the transit facilities at any international airport in the Republic of South Africa.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-2f4ac74\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">What is the purpose of the expiry date on the visa and how must the period of validity of the visitor\u2019s permit be calculated?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                The expiry date on the visa states within which period the foreigner must enter the Republic. Upon admission the visa is deemed to be a visitor\u2019s permit. The endorsement on the visa determines for which period the visitor\u2019s permit will be valid, e.g. \u201cTo be admitted for a period of 30 days\u201d. The calculation for the expiry date of the permit is made from the date of entry. The actual expiry date is not endorsed on the permit.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-333bca0\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Do Japanese passport holders require a Visa for South Africa?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Japanese Passport holders do not require a Visa to visit South Africa for a period less then ninety (90) days for holiday \/ business purposes.             <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-3dd8784\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">How can I get a refund of my cash deposit.<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Refund of cash deposit no longer in use.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-c84de78\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">What type of return postage system does the Embassy use?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                For all applications originating from within Japan :\nIf you live more then 200km from Embassy, your Passport \/ Visa can be returned to you via post. Please include a self-addressed \u201cLETTERPACK500\u201d envelope with your application. LETTERPACK500 can be purchased from the Post Office.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-094e3df\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Can the Embassy act as a Commissioner of Oaths?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Yes. The person needs to sign in the presence of the Commissioner therefore no postal requests can be accepted.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-f2c9221\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">What are the requirements for a foreigner to get married in South Africa?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                All persons getting married in South Africa are subject to the legislation of the Marriage Act, 1961 (Act 25 of 1961) which does not differentiate between South African citizens and aliens regarding the solemnization of a marriage in the Republic of South Africa. Intending bridal couples should in all cases consult the marriage officer in South Africa who is to perform the ceremony to ensure compliance with the prescribed formalities.\nUnder the South African Law, a marriage is prohibited under the following conditions: Persons who are already married.  An existing marriage can only be terminated through death or by a competent court of law.\n\nMinors. A minor may not enter into marriage unless the marriage officer is in possession of a written consent from both parents or the guardian.\nPersons without contractual capacity. This refers to majors who are suffering from mental disorders. A person who is insane, may, however, contract a valid marriage if it can be proven that the person is lucid and in full possession of his faculties when concluding the contract.\n\nProhibited degrees of relationships as indicated below:\n\nthe forebear or a descendant of the husband\/wife\n\nMarriage should take place in accordance with South African law.  Should the couple wish to get married in terms of a specific contract, they should approach a South African attorney beforehand to draw up the contract.  If such contract is not produced to the marriage officer, then the marriage will be registered as \u201cIn community of Property\u201d.\nThe following are the noted general requirements for getting married in South Africa. Once again it is suggested that intending bridal couples should consult the marriage officer in South Africa who is to perform the ceremony to ensure compliance with the prescribed formalities.\n2 valid means of identification; one must be a photo ID &amp; Passport\nProof of marital status from country of citizenship\nA notarized declaration by the party concerned to the effect that the person is not aware of any lawful impediment to the proposed marriage\nThere is no residency requirement for foreign nationals.\nThere is no blood testing requirement.\nPlease contact the nearest Home Affairs Regional Office to make an appointment date for the marriage to take place or if the marriage will take place in a church then the Minister of that church should be contacted to make an appointment for the ceremony.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-9b52a42\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">What can I bring into South Africa?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Duty Free Allowances \u2013 South African customs passenger allowances entitle you to bring new or used goods of up to R3 000 in value into the country without paying any duty. For additional goods, new or used, of up to R12 000 in value, you will be charged a flat rate 20% duty. Thereafter, normal customs duties apply. You can also bring in, duty-free, the following:\nWine \u2013 up to 2 litres per person.\nSpirits and other alcoholic beverages \u2013 up to 1 litre in total per person.\nCigarettes \u2013 up to 200 per person.\nCigars \u2013 up to 20 per person.\n\nCigarette or pipe tobacco \u2013 up to 250g per person.\nPerfume \u2013 up to 50ml per person.\nEau de toilette (scented liquid lighter than cologne) \u2013 up to 250ml per person.\nNote:  The alcohol and tobacco allowances only apply to people over 18.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-3c9f73d\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">What restrictions are there on sending gift parcels by post to South Africa?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Bona fide unsolicited free gifts of not more than two parcels per calendar year, and of which the value per parcel does not exceed R400, 00 (excluding goods contained in passenger\u2019s baggage, wine, spirits and manufacture tobacco (including cigarettes and cigars) may be sent by a natural person abroad to a natural person in the Republic.\nThe only form required to be completed by the sender of the parcel is the prescribed label obtained from any Post Office.\nAn indication as to the value is to be furnished and the label should be marked unsolicited free gift if such is the case.\nNo import permit is required if the free on board value does not exceed R400, 00. A nominal fee is levied by the South African Post Office.\n\nCustoms Duties\nThe duties payable on goods depend on the proper classification thereof, in the Customs tariff. When the importation of goods is subject to payment of duties such duties must be paid before the goods will be released from Customs control. Please note that all duties and rates are subject to amendment without prior notice.\n\nSchedules to the Customs and Excise Acts (Tariff Books)\n\nSchedules 1 to 6 of the Customs and Excise Act, 91 of 1964\nThe electronic version of Schedules 1 to 6 was developed to provide clients and Customs officers with easy access to the said schedules with the relevant duties and levies applicable to all imported, exported and local manufactured goods in the Republic.\nhttp:\/\/www.sars.gov.za\/home.asp\nYou may also wish to contact SARS Customs: Commercial Services, e-mail: plupuwana@sars.gov.za\nFax: + 27 12 422 6903\nTel: +27 12 422 6988\n\nGoods Imported as Accompanied Passengers\u2019 Baggage\nEither by non-residents or residents of the Republic and cleared at the place where such persons disembark or enter the Republic, other than personal effects and sporting or recreational equipment:\nAllocated amounts of Duty-Free goods may be imported without payment of duty.\nOther new or used goods, excluding firearms, of a total value not exceeding R1,250 per person may be imported without payment of duty.\nAdditional goods, new or used, excluding firearms, of a total value not exceeding R10,000, per person, (excluding goods of a class specified in paragraph (i). Provided the total value of the goods declared under this item does not exceed R10,000 the passenger may elect to pay the flat rate of 20% duty. Where a passenger import goods in excess of the total value mentioned, the flat rate of duty falls away and the full duty becomes payable.\nThe rebate of duty specified in paragraphs 2.0 (a) (ii) shall only be allowed once per person during a period of 330 days and shall not apply to goods imported: by persons travelling only between places in the Republic;\n\nby persons returning after an absence of less than 48 hours.\n\nThe rebate mentioned may, with the exception of that in respect of tobacco and alcoholic products be claimed by children under 18 years of age, whether or not they are accompanied by their parents or guardians.\nThe above concessions are also subject to the following conditions:\n\nThe goods imported must actually accompany the passenger on the same ship or aircraft or vehicle.\n\nGoods carried on behalf of third parties are subject to full duty and production of an import permit at the time of importation.\n\nThe rebate of duty specified in paragraph 2.0 shall not apply to firearms acquired abroad or at any duty-free shop and imported by residents of the Republic returning after an absence of less than 6 months.\n\nWhen required by an officer to do so, any person entering the Republic shall unreservedly declare all goods in his possession which he brought with him into the Republic. Failing to do so or to declare prohibited or restricted goods may lead to the imposition of penalties, seizure of the goods and forfeiture of all concessions.\n\nImportation of Prohibited and Restricted Goods\n\nPassengers in possession of prohibited or restricted goods, e.g. meat, live animals, dangerous drugs, firearms, ammunitions, and explosives, indecent or obscene books, photographs, films and other articles, agricultural products, any plants, seeds, bulbs, etc. must declare such goods.\nLive Animals may only be imported against a permit issued by the Director, Division of Veterinary Services, Private Bag X138, Pretoria, 0001.\nFirearms and Ammunition, require police permits, but Customs Officers at South African ports of entry have authority to issue temporary permits which are valid for 180 days in the case of tourists visiting South Africa.  Temporary permits will not be issued in respect of firearms imported on behalf of other persons. With regards to people moving to South Africa on a temporary basis or otherwise, application for a license to possess a firearm must be made to the Officer Commanding, South African Police, in the immigrant\u2019s\/returning South African\u2019s residential area before the firearm my be imported into South Africa. The importation of a firearm without a serial number, or other number by which it can be identified, stamped or engraved on the metal is prohibited. In respect of a returning resident or a person who enters the Republic for purposes of permanent residence or to remain temporarily therein, the importation will be subject to production of an import permit. Only after these procedures are completed, may the firearm be exported to South Africa.\nHoney or any products or preparation containing honey may not be imported at all.\nPlants, seeds, bulb etc. may only be imported against a permit issued by the Department of Agriculture and permits must be applied for prior to departure for the Republic, direct to the Division of Plant and Seed Control, Private Bag X179, Pretoria, 0001. A Phytosanitary Certificate issued by the Authority concerned in the country of export will also be required.\nMedicine, in the normal course of events, are prohibited by private individuals, but by way of a concession immigrants and tourists visiting the Republic may bring with them for their personal use a supply for a month provided they are in possession of a prescription for such medicine or a certificate from a chemist to the effect that the medicine was duly prescribed by a physician.. This does not apply to small amounts of patent medicines, e.g. aspirin, which are carried for own use.\nBank Notes\nPersons entering the Republic may import Rand bank notes, in terms of the Exchange Control Regulations, but the amount is restricted to R5 000,00 per person.\nPeople travelling in\/out of SA are allowed the maximum amount of currency is R5000,00 in SA Bank Notes per person.\n\nFor more information please contact:\nThe South African Reserve Bank\n\nPhysical address: 370 Church Street, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa\n\nPostal address: P.O. Box 427, Pretoria, 0001 South Africa\n\nEntering South Africa: Customs Do\u2019s and Don\u2019ts\n\nCustoms Do\u2019s\n\nSelect the green channel if you are sure that the goods in your possession fall within the duty-free allowance, no goods are in your possession for commercial\/trading purposes and no prohibited or restricted goods.\n\nNever carry bags through customs for someone else.\n\nMOTORISTS. If you are entering the Republic by vehicle, make sure that everyone travelling with you are aware of the customs declaration procedures applicable.\n\nREGISTER VALUABLES. Ensure that certain identifiable items such as jewellery, cameras, watches, etc., are registered at customs for re-importation.\n\nCustoms don\u2019ts\n\nDon\u2019t try to conceal any goods or mislead a customs officer. Anything, which is not correctly declared, may be detained or seized.\n\nProhibited goods are not allowed under any circumstances whereas restricted goods may be imported under cover of a permit or certificate.\n\nCURRENCY CONTROL. S.A. Bank notes in excess of R5000,00 will not be allowed unless you are in possession of the necessary permit obtainable from the SA Reserve Bank.\n\nYour responsibilities when making baggage declarations\nWhen making baggage declarations, whether verbal or written, you must ensure that you declare ALL goods in your possession as well as their correct values.\nFailure to declare goods, the under declaration of values or the production of false receipts can lead to seizure of your goods and can result in criminal prosecution or the imposition of severe penalties of up to three times the value of the goods.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-49c4766\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Can I apply for Police Clearance Certificates at the Embassy?<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                Police Clearances are not processed at the Embassy.\n\nDIRCO has been notified that applications for South African Police Clearances must be applied for directly with the South African Police Service (Criminal Records Centre) in Pretoria, South Africa.\n\nIf forwarded from abroad, the application may be forwarded via any reputable\n\ncourier company. The courier company must be PREPAID to collect the documents from the Criminal Record Centre and return the documents to the sender.            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                <div class=\"elementskit-single-faq elementor-repeater-item-fe37e2f\">\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-header\">\n                <h2 class=\"elementskit-faq-title\">Import of animals and animal products into South Africa<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"elementskit-faq-body\">\n                The Directorate Veterinary Services, Sub-Directorate Import Export Control in Pretoria will be able to assist you should any further information be required.\n\nThe Director: Veterinary Services\n\nImport Export Policy Unit\n\nPrivate Bag X138\n\nPRETORIA\n\n0001\n\nSOUTH AFRICA\n\nIn cases where quarantine of animals is required, the importer must contact the Quarantine Officer at the port of entry:\n\nPoints to Remember:\n\nA valid rabies certificate obtained at least 30 days prior to your departure. This certificate should not have been obtained more than 12 months or less than 30 days prior to exporting. The vaccine used must be a strain of anti-rabies conforming to a potency standard recognized by the World Health Organization.\n\nPlease note that it is a condition of the import permit that dogs\/cats imported into South Africa should be booked as \u201cmanifested cargo\u201d and NOT as \u201cexcess baggage\u201d.\n\nLivestock enters South Africa as manifested cargo in the temperature-controlled hold of the aircraft. Cabin stowage is not permitted. Dogs and cats must be older than 8 weeks.\n\nAs available space could be a problem you are advised to book well in advance when transporting pets.\n\nContact the Airline you are using to find out what their specific requirements are.\n\nFor more information:  www.nda.agric.za\/vetweb\n\nImporting \/ Exporting Animals to or from Japan\n\nProcedures to bring animals into Japan or export animals from Japan can be found by accessing the following external link:\n\nhttp:\/\/www.maff.go.jp\/aqs\/english\/animal\/im_index.html\n\nImportation of used vehicles to South Africa\n\nApplication for a permit to import a second-hand or used vehicle\n\nIf you want to import second-hand or used vehicles to South Africa, you need special permission from the Ministry of Trade and Industry or its agents. The Ministry will decide if it is in the best interests of the public for the second-hand or used vehicles to be imported.\n\nYou must submit the prescribed application form to apply for import permits. Import permits are needed for all goods that are subject to import control measures.\n\nImport permits are required to ensure that imported second-hand goods do not destroy the industry of the South African Customs Union (SACU). This service enhances control for safety and quality compliance reasons.\n\nFor more information go to the International Trade Administration Commission.\n\nSteps to follow:\n\nComplete the application form: IE 462\n\nSupply the Department with a certified copy of your identity document.\n\nSupply the Department with a certified copy of the vehicle\u2019s registration certificate.\n\nSubmit the form to the Directorate: Import and Export Control of the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC).\n\nContact Details: International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC).\n\nPhysical Address: 77 Meintjies Street, Block E, Sunnyside, Pretoria, 0001\n\nPostal Address: Private Bag X753, Pretoria, 0001\n\nTel: 0861 843 384\n\nWeb Site: www.itac.org.za\n\nNOTE: ALL IMPORTED VEHICLES ARE SUBJECT TO THE ISSUING OF A LETTER OF AUTHORITY BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS\n\nSABS\n\nSouth African Bureau of Standards\n\nPrivate Bag X191\n\nPretoria\n\n0001\n\nTel : + 27 12 428 6276\n\nFax : + 27 12 428 6565\n\nThe import duties on motor vehicles are at present as follows:\n\nCustoms duty: 40%\n\nAd-Valorem Customs duty: on a sliding scale with a maximum of 20%\n\nFacebook\nProudly powered by WordPress            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n                \n    <\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-235","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/235","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=235"}],"version-history":[{"count":34,"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/235\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":699,"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/235\/revisions\/699"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dirco.gov.za\/japan\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=235"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}