General Information
Language
Although there are 11 official languages in South Africa, English is the country’s primary language. It is the country’s business language and all signage is displayed in English.
The official language of the 36th Annual Conference of International Organisation of Securities Commissions is English however interpretation will be provided during the public sessions and the president’s committee in the following languages: English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.
Visas
All delegates will be personally responsible for ensuring that they are in possession of the correct documentation prior to their departure. The organisers do not accept responsibility for any consequences whatsoever from a delegate failing to ensure that he or she has complied with the necessary health, passport and visa requirements.
Applications for visas should be submitted to the nearest South African diplomatic or consular representative abroad.
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Immunization
Entering South Africa does not require any form of immunization. However, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required of travelers entering South Africa within six days of leaving an infected country. Visitors who travel through or disembark in such countries are advised to be inoculated against Yellow Fever prior to visiting South Africa.
Certain areas of South Africa are subject to Malaria before entering these specific areas; visitors should consult a doctor or pharmacist to obtain appropriate medication.
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Customs
Entry into South Africa is subject to customs clearance. Information regarding the temporary importation of goods, such as exhibition materials is available through the Department of Customs and Excise. Customs duty will be levied against any and all items which exceed identified limits. Payment of such duties is, in most instances, required prior to departure from the customs area.
Currency
The South African currency is known as the Rand (ZAR), which utilizes the decimal system, with one Rand being equal to 100 cents. A foreign exchange facility will be available onsite at the conference venue. It is recommended that currency be exchanged at the convention centre (in the registration area), rather than at the airport.
All major credit cards and travelers cheques are widely accepted in and around Cape Town.
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Indemnity
While every care is being taken in all arrangements, please note that the organisers will not be liable for any accidents, loss of / damage during the conference period. Delegates must make their own personal insurance arrangements.
Insurance
By your acceptance and payment of registration you accept the terms and conditions laid down by the Organising Committee and any of its service providers. You must ensure that you have adequate personal insurance to cover your travel and medical as neither the Organising Committee nor any of its service providers can be held liable for loss or injury while at the meeting or on any of its tours or activities.
Taxation
Visitors to South Africa may claim a refund of the Value Added Tax (currently 14%), paid for items purchased in South Africa. Such claims should be made upon the visitor’s departure from South Africa at the airport.
Electricity
South Africa’s electricity supply is 220/230 volts, AC 50Hz. US/UK – made appliances may require a transformer in order to operate in South Africa.
Medical Services
Medical services are of a high standard and most international prescription drugs are readily available through retail pharmacies. It is suggested that you take out personal medical insurance for the duration of your trip.
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Time
South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GCMT), one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time and seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time, USA.
Weather
Weather in Cape Town in April is usually sunny with blue skies and sporadic periods of rain settling in the city bowl area. A real-time view of SA weather via radar and satellite, as well as weather information for all areas of SA are available online.
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Disability Access
The conference venue (CTICC) is designed to cater for people with disabilities, they strive to ensure that it is always a venue where all feel welcome.
The centre offers full wheel-chair access, designated drop-off points and parking bays for people with disabilities, direct access escalators designed for the disabled, toilets for the physically challenged, and elevators with Braille inscriptions.
