Finance · South Africa
South Africans Face Stricter Travel Rules and Fewer Visa-Free Countries in 2026
BusinessTech · 2026/01/18
Summary
In 2026, South African passport holders will experience increased challenges when traveling abroad. The number of countries allowing visa-free entry for South African citizens is expected to decline. Additionally, applying for visas to popular destinations will become more difficult, with stricter requirements and longer processing times. These changes reflect a tougher global travel environment, which could impact leisure travel, business trips, and study abroad plans for South Africans. Travelers will need to plan ahead and possibly face higher costs and delays due to these new travel restrictions.
OnABudget takeaway: South Africans should budget more time and money for travel plans as visa processes become stricter and fewer countries allow visa-free access. This is important for both holidaymakers and small business owners who rely on international travel.