The amendments, in accordance with the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, seek to boost security and make record-keeping more efficient across the hospitality industry. / Credit: Cassiohabib via Shutterstock

South Africa’s tourism sector has made a significant announcement that directly impacts anyone checking into hotels, motels, guesthouses, and other accommodation establishments.

Since the amendment to the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 in May 2014, it has become mandatory for accommodation providers to register specific details of all guests, including their identification documents.

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This requirement aligns with broader security measures and has far-reaching consequences for non-compliance.

What the law requires from accommodation providers

According to Section 40(1) of the Immigration Act, all establishments offering lodging or sleeping accommodations for payment must maintain a detailed register of their guests.

This includes hotels, motels, guest houses, boarding houses, and even apartment buildings. The register must contain the following details for each guest:

  1. Full names and surname
  2. A copy of the guest’s identification document (ID or passport)
  3. Residence status in South Africa
  4. Residential address
  5. Guest’s signature

The guest must sign this register and provide all required details upon check-in. This process is already standard practice with airlines, car rental companies, and other travel services, where identification is required to ensure security and proper records.

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By extending this to the accommodation sector, South Africa aims to enhance visitor safety and streamline its record-keeping systems for better compliance with immigration laws.

Consequences of non-compliance

The consequences of not adhering to this regulation can be severe for both the guest and the accommodation provider.

Non-compliance can lead to criminal charges, fines, and in some cases, imprisonment for up to 12 months. Both parties—the guest and the lodging provider—are legally obligated to ensure that this process is followed correctly.

The legislation highlights that both the individual and the establishment could be penalised for failing to maintain proper records.

This registration system has been implemented with the broader goal of improving security in the country, ensuring that the authorities have accurate information on who is staying where.

With similar identification protocols already enforced by other sectors of the travel industry, it’s clear that this is an effort to tighten up hospitality practices and prevent any potential security risks.

In summary, South African guests and international tourists must be prepared to show a valid ID upon check-in, as part of the country’s broader efforts to enhance security in the hospitality industry.

These measures are in place to ensure the safety of all visitors and to help the country maintain a thorough record of people staying within its borders.