Bad news for those waiting to be mask free from Thursday.
The Health Department says it is still compulsory to wear a mask in enclosed indoor spaces except for children in schools.
The department has extended the public consultation period for health regulation amendments until 5 July.
In the interim, travellers arriving in South Africa will still have to produce a valid vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test.
Outdoor venues can still only use 50 percent of their capacity with attendees needing to show proof of vaccination.