South Africa has introduced a new health screening requirement for travellers arriving from Uganda or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as authorities continue to monitor the ongoing Ebola outbreak in Central Africa.
The Department of Health announced on 17 July 2026 that all passengers entering South Africa who have travelled in either Uganda or the DRC during the 21 days before arrival must complete a Travel Health Questionnaire (THQ).
Who needs to complete the questionnaire?
The requirement applies to all travellers arriving in South Africa who have been in Uganda or the DRC within the previous 21 days, regardless of their nationality.
Passengers can complete the Travel Health Questionnaire (THQ) up to 24 hours before travelling to South Africa. Completing the form before departure is expected to help speed up health screening and immigration processing on arrival.
Travellers who transit through these countries should also check with their airline or travel agent whether the requirement applies to their specific itinerary.
Why has South Africa introduced the THQ?
The new measure forms part of South Africa's efforts to strengthen border health surveillance while the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa continues.
According to the Department of Health, the Ebola outbreak has resulted in more than 2,000 confirmed cases and over 800 deaths since May, prompting additional precautions for travellers arriving from affected countries.
At this stage, the Travel Health Questionnaire (THQ) is a targeted public health measure and does not affect travellers arriving directly from other countries unless they have recently visited Uganda or the DRC.
What travellers should do
If your itinerary includes Uganda or the DRC before travelling to South Africa:
- Complete the THQ up to 24 hours before your flight.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your recent travel history and health.
- Allow a little extra time at the airport, as additional health screening may be carried out on arrival.
- Monitor official travel advice before departure, as health requirements can change at short notice.
For most visitors travelling to South Africa from Europe, North America, Australasia or elsewhere in Southern Africa, there are currently no changes to existing entry requirements.
As always, if your itinerary involves multiple countries, it is worth checking the latest health and entry requirements before you travel to avoid unexpected delays.
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