International Travel Toolkit

• Before making travel arrangements, consult the following source to determine if it is safe to travel to your destination country:
  • SA Government travel advice: Advice for South African Citizens Travelling Abroad - DIRCO

• The following questions might be useful to consider:
  • How safe is your destination?
  • Are there any safety or security concerns that you should consider before travelling, for example political instability or changing laws?
  • Are there any global and/or political circumstances that may impede your entry into your destination?
  • If you travel, what resources will you use to monitor changes in the security situation or respond to an emergency?

• Sanctions are legal restrictions imposed by governments or international bodies that may affect travel, financial transactions or the import and export of goods and services.
• Before travelling, consult official government advisories to determine if any sanctions exist between South Africa and your destination country or countries, as these might impact on visa applications, funding transfers, academic collaborations or the transport of research materials.

Passport

• Ensure that you have a valid passport.
• Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after you return from your travel.
• Your passport should have blank pages for the entry stamp/s.
• If you do not have a passport or if it does not meet the validity requirement, apply for a (new) passport as soon as possible.
• Remember that it can take several weeks for a passport to be issued.

Visa

• Consult the diplomatic mission of your destination country to determine if you require a visa.
  • Consult the DIRCO website for a list of foreign missions in South Africa: Foreign Representation in South Africa - DIRCO.
  • Remember that visa requirements depend on your citizenship status.
• If you require a visa, it must correspond to the intended purpose of your stay.
• The following questions may be useful to consider:
  • What type of visa do you need (business, student, tourist etc.)?
  • What is the application procedure, including costs and timelines?
  • Will you need a transit visa (for a layover or travel through another country on the way to your destination)?
• If you are using a travel agent, they should be able to advise on visa requirements depending on your travel itinerary.
• Remember that a valid visa does not constitute the right to enter the destination country. The final decision regarding entry is made by the border official.

Entry Decision

• The decision regarding entry into the destination country is made by the border official.
• Please note that there is no legal recourse against the border official’s decision not to allow you entry into the country.
• It is recommended that you carry print copies of relevant documents such as your letter of invitation, confirmation of accommodation and proof of return trip (e.g. flight booking) etc.

Scrutiny and Risk Profile

• The level of scrutiny that travellers face at borders will vary based on citizenship status and risk profile.
• Several factors may be considered, including:

• • Visa status,
  • Country of origin,
  • Gender designation,
  • Religious or political affiliations, 
  • Travel history,
  • Online presence and social media activity,
  • Participation in protests or activism, and
  • Work in fields such as journalism or human rights.
• Understanding your individual risk profile can assist in determining the appropriate precautions to take prior to travel.

Online Presence

• Evaluate your digital footprint and browser history.
• Carefully consider your social media presence.
• Assess what data is necessary for travel and delete unnecessary applications, text messages, photos, etc.

• If you are a South African citizen, register your travel with DIRCO by sending an email to the following address: rosahelp@dirco.gov.za, as this will help the Department in aiding you in an emergency.
• If you are a citizen of another country, contact your country’s diplomatic mission in your destination country to let them know about your travel plans. 

• Contact your medical aid provider to confirm if your current medical aid plan covers you while abroad, including for chronic medical conditions.
• If you are not covered abroad, or have incomplete coverage for your needs, consider purchasing an international travel health insurance policy for the duration of your travel.
• Obtain confirmation of coverage through Wits’ international travel insurance.
  • If you are a Wits staff member, obtain your international travel certificate via the intranet (Self-service > Travel insurance).
  • If you are a Wits student travelling on university business, contact your School for assistance. so that they can generate the international travel certificate for you.

Health Risks and Vaccines

• Find out about any health-related risks and vaccines that may be required by consulting relevant websites, for example:
  • US Government: Destinations | Travelers' Health | CDC
• For travel inoculations and vaccinations, book an appointment with your nearest travel clinic.

Medication

• Check medication legality: Research whether your medications - both prescription and over the counter - are legal in your destination country.
• Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country for up-to-date information on medication regulations.
• Discuss all medications you are taking with your travel health provider before your trip.
• Pack enough of all your necessary medications for the entire duration of your trip.
• Keep medications in their original, labelled packaging to avoid confusion or issues at customs.
  • Carry a copy of your prescription(s), including the generic name and dosage of each medication.
  • Keep all medication and prescriptions in your carry-on bag in case of checked luggage delays or loss.

Vision Supplies

• Pack extra eyeglasses, contact lenses and contact lens solution.

Cash and Cards

• Take a mix of payment options, ideally a combination of cash (but never too much at once), debit or ATM cards and credit cards.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to avoid any holds or fraud alerts on your accounts.
  • Enquire about foreign transaction fee charges.
  • Check if you will need a PIN for purchases abroad.
• Take only the essential credit cards and identification that you will need.

Currency

• Get local currency in advance: Exchange enough money to cover your first few days.
  • You can do this at a bank before leaving South Africa or upon arrival at your destination airport, as the exchange rates are usually similar.
• Research travel-related fees and restrictions:
  • Find out if there are any arrival or departure taxes in your destination country.
  • Check for any currency restrictions, as some countries limit how much money you can bring in or take out.

• Ensure that you have (certified) copies of your most important documents.
  • Take print copies with you when you travel.
  • Keep electronic copies.
• Relevant documents include the following:
  • Passport (identification page and visa page/s)
  • (International) driver’s license
  • Medical aid card
  • Travel insurance document
  • Bank card/s (front and back)
  • Flight and other travel itineraries
  • Medical information and history
    • Immunisations and vaccinations
    • Prescriptions
    • Significant medical history (e.g., surgeries, severe allergies, major illnesses).

Cell Phones

• Contact your current service provider to unlock your South African cell phone.
• Purchase an international phone card or an e-SIM before departure.
• Upon arrival, buy a local SIM card with pay-as-you-go options.

Calling Options

• Be aware that international calls from your mobile can be costly.
• Consider using WhatsApp, Skype, Google Voice or other internet-based services, as many hotels and conference centres offer free Wi-Fi.
• Check which apps will work in your destination country.
• Learn how to place collect calls from your destination, especially for emergency situations.
• You can still receive calls from home with an active SIM or VoIP service.

Emergency Phone Use

• In long emergencies, use text messaging instead of calling to conserve your phone’s battery life.

Important Numbers

• Save the following important numbers to ensure quick access if needed. In an emergency, always contact local in-country resources first.
• Local emergency numbers (police, ambulance, fire)
• Local embassies’ contact information (phone number and address)
• Nearest hospital contact information (phone number and address)
• Your medical aid provider's contact number
• Your travel insurance provider's contact number
• It is also recommended to keep a written copy of these numbers with you in case your phone is lost or unavailable.

Chargers

• Ensure that you have the appropriate international plug adapters and voltage converters for your destination, as plug types and electrical standards may differ from South Africa.
• It is also advisable to carry a universal travel adapter and check that your electronic devices are compatible with the voltage used in the destination country.

• Check with your airline and your destination country’s customs guidelines what is and is not allowed in carry-on baggage.

Allowed in Carry-On Baggage

• Travel-sized liquids: Up to 100 ml per container, all fitting in a single, clear, zip-top bag
• Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter (recommended in original packaging)
• Electronics: Laptops, phones, tablets, cameras, chargers, and power banks (usually under 100Wh)
• Snacks and dry food: Solid foods like protein bars, nuts and sandwiches (check destination rules for fresh food)
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, deodorant, razor (manual only), comb, etc., following the liquid limit
• Essential documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance and boarding passes

Not Allowed in Carry-On Baggage

• Liquids over 100 ml
• Sharp objects: Knives, scissors with blades longer than 6 cm, box cutters, etc.
• Sporting equipment: Baseball bats, golf clubs, hiking poles, etc.
• Flammable items: Lighters (usually limited to one), matches, fireworks, aerosol sprays
• Tools: Wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers over 7 inches in length
• Weapons: Firearms, ammunition, and self-defence sprays

Border Officials

• Border officials are authorised to make the decision as to whether you are allowed entry.
• Officials are authorised to search electronic devices.
  • If you refuse to allow the official to search your electronic devices, you could be denied entry.
  • Non-citizens often encounter heightened device search scrutiny and their visa status may impact their rights. 

Suggested Conduct During Interviews and Inspections 

• Maintain a calm and professional demeanour throughout all border interactions.
• Provide only truthful responses and limit answers to direct questions asked.
• When unclear about an official's request, specifically ask whether they are requesting or requiring compliance.
• Document all aspects of the interaction, including officials’ names, badge numbers, times, locations and search details.
• Request receipts for any seized items. 

Customs

• Importing goods into your destination country requires compliance with national regulations and requirements.
• Failure to follow proper procedures could result in serious consequences, including visa cancellation.
• See ‘Import and Export Regulations’ below.

Carry proper identification such as your passport, visa and local ID with you at all times

• Be especially aware of your surroundings at ATMs. If you feel distracted or uncomfortable, cancel the transaction and leave.
• Exchange money only through reputable banks or trusted companies.
• Carry only the amount of cash you need for the day in your wallet or purse.
• Avoid carrying more cash than you can afford to lose.
• If you are carrying a large sum of money, divide it into smaller amounts. Consider using a money belt but avoid accessing it in public and use a private area such as a restroom if needed.

Public Transport

• Familiarise yourself with the local transport system, including routes, schedules and fare structures.
• Seek local advice regarding the use of public transport, especially regarding safety and security.

Driving or Renting a Vehicle

• Use only locally licensed and authorised rental providers.
• Ensure that your driver’s licence is valid in your destination country.
• Familiarise yourself with driving laws, road signs and driving customs.

Road Safety

• For information on global road safety and country-specific reviews, visit theAssociation for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT) website. 

Taxi Safety

• Use only locally licensed and authorised taxis.
• Ask a trusted local source to call a taxi for you until you are familiar with the system.
• Wear a seatbelt if available.
• Avoid entering a taxi that already has another passenger.
• If the taxi driver is driving too fast or recklessly, ask them to slow down, or, if safe, end the ride and exit the vehicle.
• Retrieve your luggage before paying.
• When possible, agree on an estimated fare before the ride, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area, the taxi is unmetered or the driver does not activate the meter.

• Demonstrations, protests, strikes and social movements are part of the broader global political and social landscape. While it can be tempting to observe or experience these events firsthand, it is important to recognise that such gatherings can be unpredictable and may escalate into violence without warning.
• Your personal safety is your responsibility. Avoiding demonstrations entirely is the safest option. However, if you choose to attend or inadvertently find yourself in the midst of one:
  • Stay well away from the centre of activity.
  • Do not film, photograph or record the event.
  • Do not assume that being a foreigner will protect you from arrest or harm, as authorities may not distinguish between participants and bystanders.
• Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs regarding protests and public gatherings:
  • In some countries, taking photos, recording video, or even making notes can be grounds for arrest.
  • Recording protests may endanger the participants.
  • Exercise caution and responsibility in what you share on social media, as your posts may be monitored by local authorities, seen by your hosts or read by family and friends back home.
• When in doubt, prioritise safety, respect local laws and maintain a low profile. 

• If you are detained or arrested:
  • Remain calm, polite and cooperative. Do not resist.
  • Request immediate contact with your embassy or consulate.
  • If you are a South African citizen, refer to DIRCO for contact information: South African Representation Abroad - DIRCO.
  • If you are part of a university programme, notify your hosts or organisers as soon as possible, as staff may help liaise with authorities or your home institution.

• While in custody:
  • Do not admit to any wrongdoing or sign documents without legal advice.
  • Do not agree to assist or cooperate with your detainers in any unofficial capacity.
• Please note that university officials and consular officials can offer support and guidance, but they cannot secure your release or override local laws. They should however try to assist you in obtaining legal representation to secure your release.

Clothing

• Familiarise yourself with appropriate dress codes, particularly when visiting professional environments, government buildings and religious or sacred sites. Modest attire is often expected in these settings.
• Refrain from wearing flashy or expensive-looking jewellery, as it may attract unwanted attention.

Exercise

• Before exercising outdoors or in public spaces, check whether it is considered culturally appropriate or safe.

Tactful Communication

• Use discretion when discussing sensitive topics such as religion, politics or social issues, especially with strangers. Respect for differing views and cultural norms is essential.
• Practice cultural sensitivity in conversations. Avoid making assumptions, and be mindful of local customs regarding personal space, gestures and body language.

Photography

• Always confirm whether photography is permitted, especially when it involves people, religious or sacred sites, monuments, or government and military buildings or personnel.

• All Wits research rules and regulations remain in effect while conducting research internationally. This includes standards of Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR), covering the following areas:
• Academic and research integrity,
• Conflict of interest,
• Research involving human or animal subjects or the environment,
• Collection, acquisition, processing and management of data.
• In addition to the above, be aware that your host country may have its own laws and regulations governing research activities. It is your responsibility to:
• Understand and comply with all applicable local regulations of the host country.
• Secure any required permits and/or licenses for fieldwork, sample and/or data collection, work with antiquities or other regulated activities.
• You are also expected to uphold global standards such as those outlined in the Montreal Statement on Research Integrity in Cross-Boundary Research Collaborations, which includes mutual respect, transparency and ethical responsibility in collaborative research efforts.
• In addition, you are to uphold the principles and responsibilities as outlined in the Singapore Statement on Research Integrity.
• Failure to comply with either Wits or local research standards, policies and procedures may lead to disciplinary action and legal consequences. When in doubt, seek guidance from your supervisor or the University’s Research Office.

• Data safety involves protecting digital information from unauthorised access, corruption, or theft.
• To ensure that your data remains secure, consider the following:
• Identify the types of data you possess and determine the appropriate level of protection required.
• Familiarise yourself with Wits’ data safety policies and protocols.
• Where necessary, take additional measures to safeguard your data.
• Be aware of the data safety laws and regulations in your destination country or countries, as they may differ from those in South Africa.

• When travelling to and from your destination, be aware of the import and export regulations of both South Africa and your destination country. These regulations govern what items can be legally brought into or taken out of a country, including the following:
  • Currency limits,
  • Restricted goods such as certain foods, plants or animal products, and
  • Prohibited items such as illegal drugs or weapons.
• If you are conducting research, ensure that you understand the specific regulations related to research materials, artifacts, 
  • specimens or data. Special permissions or documentation may be required.
  • In general, international travellers should declare relevant items at customs and ensure compliance with all relevant requirements to avoid fines, confiscation or legal consequences.
  • For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult official government or embassy websites before you travel.
  • The following items are subject to strict regulation by multiple federal agencies and require special permits or documentation when imported (including carrying in personal luggage): 
  • Biological materials and strains,
  • Chemicals,
  • Geological samples,
  • Human specimens, and
  • Hazardous materials.