PCR means polymerase chain reaction. It’s a test to detect genetic material from a specific organism, such as a virus. The test detects the presence of a virus if you have the virus at the time of the test. The test could also detect fragments of the virus even after you are no longer infected.
Below is How To Get A PCR Test In South Africa
Your destination country(ies) and the country(ies) through which you will be transiting have specific COVID-19 testing requirements. These requirements change regularly. It is your responsibility to check the testing requirements that you must meet. It is important that you check, and keep on checking:
with your travel agent
the map on IATA Travel Centre – you can click on a country to see their latest entry requirements.
countries’ official websites, and
airline websites. Some airlines have their own requirements.
Booking your test
Please read this carefully before your book your test:
We only test outbound travelers.
We do not test:
non travelers, or
persons who have any symptoms of COVID-19. For example, fever, cough, sore throat, running nose, muscle or joint pain.
A negative RT-PCR test or Rapid Antigen test does NOT guarantee that:
you were infection-free at the time of testing. In the incubation period of the virus, a COVID-19 test may give negative results.
you will test negative for COVID-19 when you are tested in the destination country. You may have got infected after we have tested you.
Arranging your RT-PCR test:
Decide when you must take the test. Consider your date and time of departure and the time that is takes to get a result. The RT-PCR test must be taken within the period that your destination country and/or airline requires. Make sure that you have the correct information before scheduling your appointment.
Testing is available every morning, including Saturdays and Sundays. We can also test you at your home or office at an additional cost.
You must book and pay at least 2 working days before the appointment.
To book and pay:
Click on, or scan, the QR code below to open a form that you must complete.
Once submitted, we will send you an email with the appointment and payment options.
Your appointment is confirmed when we receive your booking preference and proof of payment.