For entry into Eswatini (Swaziland), a valid passport with at least two blank pages and six months’ validity beyond your date of departure is required[5]. A visa is not required for most tourists visiting for up to 30 days, including South African passport holders[5][7]. Always verify visa exemptions based on your nationality before traveling.
If you are traveling with a vehicle, the following are required:
- Original vehicle registration or license papers. Certified copies are acceptable if accompanied by a bank letter authorizing you to take the vehicle across the border, signed by a Commissioner of Oaths[1][7].
- If the vehicle is not yours, an affidavit from the police, or a letter from the financial institution/owner authorizing export is mandatory[1][7].
- Temporary importation documents for vehicles and trailers must be completed at the border[1].
- Purchase of third-party insurance is required and can be bought at the border (approximately R50 per vehicle)[1].
- ZA sticker on the back of the vehicle if registered in South Africa[7].
On arrival at the border:
- Proceed to Immigration for a passport stamp and to indicate the number of people and your vehicle’s registration[1].
- Next, go to Customs to fill out temporary importation and goods declaration forms.
- Have your car pass stamped at Customs, and keep it safe for your departure[1].
- Declare all electronics (laptops, cameras, etc.) and significant amounts of alcohol or food to avoid import taxes[4].
For minors (children under 18), an unabridged birth certificate showing both parents’ details is required. If the child is traveling with one parent or with someone else, a notarized affidavit from non-traveling parents/guardians is necessary[3].
Health & Vaccinations: Yellow Fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from a country where Yellow Fever is endemic. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A & B, polio, tetanus, and typhoid. Eswatini is a malaria risk area, so precautions are advised[7][8]. As of November 2022, there are no COVID-19-related entry requirements[8].
Customs regulations limit dairy, meat, fruits, vegetables, and plants, with a focus on preventing large commercial imports. Items for personal use in reasonable quantity are generally acceptable[4].
Be prepared for possible security checks at the border. Remaining patient and courteous will help the process go smoothly[8]. Carry pens to speed up paperwork processing[1]. Border opening hours typically run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but this may vary by crossing[5].
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