## Is Travel from South Africa to the USA Allowed?
Amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions and regulations continue to evolve globally. As of July 2023, travel from South Africa to the United States is subject to certain restrictions. Here’s a detailed overview of the current situation:
### Current Travel Restrictions
Visa Requirements: All travelers from South Africa require a valid passport and visa to enter the United States. For tourist purposes, the most common visa type is the B-2 visa. Nationals of South Africa are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows for short-term visits (up to 90 days) for tourism or business without a visa. However, travelers must meet specific requirements and obtain prior authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement: The United States requires all non-U.S. citizens and non-U.S. immigrants traveling by air to be fully vaccinated with an FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine. The required vaccines include Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen, Astrazeneca/Oxford, Covishield, BIBP/Sinopharm, and Sinovac. Travelers must have received all recommended doses of the vaccine.
Testing Requirement: In addition to being fully vaccinated, travelers from South Africa must present a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within three days of their flight to the United States. The test must be a viral PCR or antigen test.
Quarantine Requirement: There are no quarantine requirements upon arrival in the United States for fully vaccinated travelers who meet the testing requirement.
### Exceptions and Exemptions
Diplomatic or Official Travel: Individuals traveling for diplomatic or official purposes may be exempt from the COVID-19 testing requirement.
Children Under 2: Children under the age of two are exempt from the COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements.
Medical Exemptions: Travelers with medical exemptions to vaccination may be eligible for an exemption. To obtain an exemption, travelers must submit a signed statement from a licensed physician attesting to their medical condition.
### Tips for Travelers
Prepare Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport, visa (if applicable), proof of vaccination, and negative COVID-19 test results.
Check Flight Status: Monitor your flight status in case of any delays or cancellations.
Arrive Early: Allow ample time at the airport for check-in and security screenings.
Follow Health Guidelines: Wear a face mask in public areas and maintain social distancing whenever possible.
Stay Informed: Regularly check the latest travel advisories and restrictions from the U.S. Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
### Additional Resources
[U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html)
[CDC Travel Health Notices](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices)
[ESTA Visa Waiver Program](https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/)
### Conclusion
While travel from South Africa to the United States is currently allowed, travelers must comply with the established restrictions and requirements, including proof of vaccination, negative COVID-19 test results, and adherence to health guidelines. By following these measures, travelers can help protect the health of themselves, their fellow passengers, and the communities they visit. It is always advisable to stay informed about the latest travel updates and consult with the relevant authorities before making travel arrangements.