Immigration Compliance: What Tour Operators and Transport Providers Need to Know
Ensuring travellers have the correct documentation at South Africa’s ports of entry is the responsibility of tour operators and transport providers. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines, as seen in a recent case where a company was penalised R15,000 per passenger for transporting travellers with incomplete visas.
To help operators navigate these requirements, we have compiled an FAQ guide outlining key legal obligations, best practices, and steps to take if challenges arise at the border.
Key Reminders:
- Operators must verify that all foreign passengers have valid visas before travel (Immigration Act 13 of 2002).
- Fines for non-compliance can be significant and must be paid within 30 days.
- Proactive measures—such as pre-travel visa checks and staff training—can help prevent costly penalties.
- If issues arise at a port of entry, operators should document interactions, request formal notices, and seek legal guidance where necessary.
We have reached out to the Department of Home Affairs for clarity on the fine amounts imposed and will update the FAQ guide once we receive feedback.
For full details, access the FAQ guide here to ensure your business remains compliant. The guide is available under SATSA’s Library and Resources.