South AfricaEritrea: Visa required
South Africa
Eritrea
Do South Africa passport holders need a visa for Eritrea?
Visa required
Yes. South Africa passport holders need to obtain a visa in advance before travelling to Eritrea.
A visa must be obtained in advance, typically from an embassy or consulate, before travel.
Source: us.embassyeritrea.org (checked July 18, 2026).
Travelling the other way? Eritrea passport holders visiting South Africa: Visa required.
Eritrea drives on the right, the opposite side to South Africa. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.
Visa-free alternatives near Eritrea
South Africa passport holders can visit these nearby destinations without a visa in advance:
Other visa-free destinations for South Africa passport holders
Frequently asked questions
Do South Africa passport holders need a visa for Eritrea?
Yes. South Africa passport holders need to obtain a visa in advance before travelling to Eritrea.
How far is Eritrea from South Africa?
About 4,713 km in a straight line, roughly ~6h 3m nonstop by air.
What currency is used in Eritrea?
Eritrean nakfa (ERN).
What is the emergency number in Eritrea?
113 / 114 / 116.
Does Eritrea drive on the same side of the road as South Africa?
Eritrea drives on the right, the opposite side to South Africa. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.
What time zone is Eritrea in?
Asmara (UTC+3).
What is the nearest airport to Asmara?
Asmara International Airport (ASM), about 4 km away.
How many countries can enter Eritrea without a visa?
1 of the 242 nationalities this site tracks can enter Eritrea visa-free, with a visa on arrival, or with an eTA.
What nearby countries can South Africa passport holders visit without a visa instead of Eritrea?
Ethiopia, Qatar, Egypt, Kenya, Israel, Jordan.
Visa rules change frequently and can depend on your specific circumstances. This site is compiled from public government sources and is provided for general information only. Always confirm requirements with the official immigration authority or a consulate of your destination before you travel.