south africa travel documents for minors

South Africa Visa » Traveling to South Africa with Children

Traveling to South Africa with Children

Traveling to South Africa is set to become much easier now that the government of South Africa has introduced the South Africa tourist visa online, an electronic visa which eliminates the need to apply for a visa from an embassy or consulate .

However, although the South Africa eVisa application facilitates the process of obtaining a tourist visa for the country, it is still be necessary to comply with the requirements for supporting documents for a visa.

Those planning to travel to the country with kids should be aware that there are strict entry requirements for children traveling to South Africa .

The travel documents for children for entry to South Africa depend on a variety of factors, including how many parents are accompanying the child , the child’s nationality , and whether or not they are resident in some form of alternative care.

Read on to discover travel advice for bringing children to South Africa and find out exactly which documents you will need.

What Documents Does a Minor Need to Fly to South Africa?

Before coming to the country with a minor, travelers should check the South Africa Visa requirements and the South Africa child policy . The table below details the necessary documentation required depending on the nationality of the child and who they are traveling with.

This documentation will be requested at the port of entry and exit in South Africa for children with South African nationality or foreign visa-exempt children.

Those who are required to apply for a South Africa visa will be required to provide the same documentation as a visa-exempt child, but during the visa application process instead of at the port of entry.

Do children traveling to South Africa need to produce their birth certificate upon arrival?

• South African children traveling on a South African passport do need to carry their unabridged birth certificate to enter the country
• Foreign visa-exempt children will no longer need to present their birth certificate nor parental consent letters
• Foreign visa-required children will have their birth certificate processed during their visa application, and no longer have to produce the document for inspection at the airport upon arrival

This confusion is due to the fact that unabridged birth certificates were introduced as a travel requirement for minors arriving in South Africa in 2015. This document was initially required to help prevent child trafficking.

However, on Friday, November 8th, 2019, South African government officials announced that birth certificates and consent letters are no longer required for foreign children traveling with their parents to enter the country.

The birth certificate requirement for South Africa is eliminated when children visit the country with their mother and father carrying a valid passport on which the child’s parents are registered as such.

Can a Child Travel to South Africa with One Parent?

As outlined in the table above, it is possible for children to travel to South Africa with one parent so long as they carry their valid passport.

Exemptions for South Africa Entry Requirements for Children

Although it is necessary to present supporting documentation in most cases when traveling with children to South Africa , there are some exemptions where certain South Africa child policy requirements for children do not apply :

• Children with a South African passport may travel to South Africa without birth certificates
• Supporting documents are not required for children in direct transit through an international airport
• Children with a valid South African visa are not required to produce the documents already submitted as part of their visa applications when travelling through a port of entry in South Africa
• A child with a passport containing the details of his or her parent(s) is not required to produce a birth certificate or equivalent document
• Children traveling as part of a school trip are able to replace the parental consent letter and other additional documents with a letter from their school principal confirming that all consent letters are held by the school. This arrangement applies to all schools registered with the Department of Basic Education in South Africa and its equivalent abroad.

In cases where the parent(s) of the child are unable to consent to their child traveling to South Africa, due to recent death or mental or physical disability , persons acting on behalf of the child may apply for a special exemption. In such cases, it is necessary to submit a request explaining the situation , alongside supporting documentation such as a treating medical practitioner’s certificate, to Office of the Director-General of Home Affairs of South Africa.

This final exemption only applies to cases of parental incapacity , and not to cases where a parent is either unwilling to consent or unable to be located due to separation or divorce. In cases where a parent refuses to give consent , it is possible to present a court order in terms of section 18(5) of the Children’s Act, 2005 (Act No. 38 of 2005) as an alternative.

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Requirements for Travelling with Children to South Africa

Planning a trip with your children to South Africa? Here’s everything you need to know about what’s required in terms of the law.  The requirements for children travelling to or from South Africa were revised in accordance with the First Amendment of the Immigration Regulations 2014 that came into effect on 01 December 2018. Documentation ‍

The following documents must be produced upon request at all ports of entry by South African children entering and leaving the Republic, as well as by unaccompanied minors, regardless of their nationalities. Applications by foreign children for a South African visa at any mission or VFS service point must include the relevant documents listed below if they are to be successful.  ‍

‍ Exemptions ‍ ‍

• South African children using South African passports may enter the country without having to produce a birth certificate.
• Children in direct transit at an international airport need not produce supporting documents.
• When travelling through a port of entry into South Africa, children possessing valid South African visas need not produce documents that were submitted as part of the application for said visas.
• Children in possession of a passport that contains the details of their parents are not required to produce a birth certificate or equivalent documentation.
• Consent is required from the parent or parents listed on the birth certificate of the child.
• In the case of school tours, parental consent may be replaced by a letter from the principal of the relevant school. The letter should confirm that the school is in possession of all the necessary documents relating to consent. This special dispensation applies to all schools registered with the Department of Basic Education in South Africa and the equivalent school authorities abroad.
• In the case of a recent death of a parent or parents, persons related to the child/children may apply for a special dispensation in lieu of parental consent by providing a full letter of motivation, together with all supporting documents, to the Office of the Director-General of Home Affairs, at the following e-mail address: [email protected] . For more information, consult the official South African government website.

Definitions

• Suggested format of the Parental Consent letter is available here .

The information above is accurate, to the best of our knowledge, as of July 2023. Safari.com recommends consulting official government resources before planning your travel itinerary.  The tables above are taken from the South African Department of Home Affairs website ( http://www.dha.gov.za/ ). ‍

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Traveling to south africa with kids: what documents do you need.

Traveling with kids can be an exciting and memorable experience, especially when exploring a diverse and captivating destination like South Africa. However, ensuring that you have all the necessary documents in order is crucial to avoid any hiccups or complications along the way. In this article, we will discuss the essential documents you need when traveling to South Africa with kids, providing you with a comprehensive guide to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Passport Requirements

The first and most crucial document you need is a valid passport for each member of your family, including your children. It is essential to ensure that your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining beyond your intended departure date from South Africa. This requirement is in place to ensure that you can legally remain in the country for the duration of your visit.

Birth Certificates

When traveling with children, it is essential to have their birth certificates with you. South Africa, like many other countries, requires proof of parentage when traveling with minors. The birth certificate provides evidence of the child’s age and their relationship to the accompanying adults.

It is recommended to carry the original birth certificate or a certified copy, issued by the relevant authority in your home country. If the birth certificate is not in English, you may be required to have it translated to English by an authorized translator. Additionally, it is advisable to carry copies of the birth certificates, as they may be requested by immigration officials or other authorities during your travels.

Consent Letters

If you are traveling with a child and are not both the child’s biological parents or legal guardians, it is vital to have a consent letter from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This letter should outline their consent for the child to travel with you and include their contact details, a copy of their passport, and the child’s birth certificate.

The consent letter should be signed and notarized or certified by a competent authority to ensure its authenticity. Even if you are the child’s biological parent, having a consent letter from the other parent(s) can help prevent any potential issues or delays at border control.

Visa Requirements

Before traveling to South Africa, it is essential to determine whether you and your children require visas to enter the country. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Some countries have visa exemption agreements with South Africa, allowing their citizens to stay for a specific period without a visa.

To determine your visa requirements, you can visit the official website of the South African Department of Home Affairs or contact the nearest South African embassy or consulate in your country. Ensure that you apply for the necessary visas well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

Unabridged Birth Certificates

In addition to the standard birth certificate, South Africa requires travelers with children under the age of 18 to present an unabridged birth certificate. This document includes the details of both parents and is intended to prevent child trafficking and abduction. The unabridged birth certificate must be an original or certified copy and contain the names, dates, and places of birth of both parents.

If the child is adopted, a copy of the adoption certificate must also be carried. It is essential to note that South African immigration officials may request these documents upon arrival, so it is advisable to have them readily available.

Medical Documentation

When traveling to South Africa with kids, it is wise to have their medical documents in order. Ensure that your children’s vaccinations are up to date and have their vaccination cards or records with you. Although it is not a mandatory requirement for entry into South Africa, it is always good practice to have this information available, especially in case of emergencies or unexpected medical situations.

It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses for you and your children. This will provide peace of mind and financial protection should any medical issues arise during your trip.

Travel Itinerary and Accommodation Details

Although not strictly a document, having a well-organized travel itinerary can be beneficial when traveling with kids. Ensure that you have a detailed plan of your travel dates, destinations, and accommodation details. This information may be required at immigration checkpoints or by the South African authorities.

Traveling to South Africa with kids requires thorough preparation and attention to detail, particularly regarding the necessary documents. By ensuring that you have all the required passports, birth certificates, consent letters, visas, unabridged birth certificates, medical documentation, and travel itineraries, you can enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable journey.

Remember to check the specific requirements for your nationality and consult official sources for the most up-to-date information. With the necessary documents in hand, you can embark on a memorable adventure, exploring the beauty and diversity that South Africa has to offer with your children by your side.

1. Do children need a passport to travel to South Africa?

Yes, children need a valid passport to travel to South Africa. It is important to ensure that the passport has at least six months’ validity remaining beyond the intended departure date.

2. What documents are required to prove parentage when traveling with children to South Africa?

When traveling with children to South Africa, it is necessary to have their birth certificates. These certificates provide evidence of the child’s age and their relationship to the accompanying adults. It is recommended to carry the original birth certificate or a certified copy, issued by the relevant authority in your home country.

3. Do I need a consent letter if I am traveling with a child who is not my biological child?

Yes, if you are traveling with a child and you are not both the child’s biological parents or legal guardians, it is important to have a consent letter from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This letter should outline their consent for the child to travel with you and include their contact details, a copy of their passport, and the child’s birth certificate. The consent letter should be signed and notarized or certified by a competent authority.

4. Are visas required for traveling to South Africa with children?

Before traveling to South Africa, it is essential to determine whether you and your children require visas to enter the country. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. It is recommended to check with the South African embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the specific visa requirements for your family.

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What are the regulations for families travelling with children to South Africa?

As of November 2019 children travelling on passports of visa-exempt countries will only require a valid passport to enter/exit South African ports of entry (birth certificates will no longer be a requirement for them), as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Regulations for families travelling with children to South Africa

Children in possession of a valid South Africa visa are not required to produce the documents already submitted as part of their visa applications.

South African minors are required to present a copy of their birth certificate/equivalent document* or passport containing the details of their parents. For more details, please consult http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/statements-speeches/621-advisory-new-requirements-for-children-travelling-through-south-african-ports-of-entry-effective-1-june-2015

Please note that stricter requirements may need to be adhered to in South Africa’s neighbouring countries.

Exceptions (applicable to holders of South African as well as foreign visa-exempt passports)

If the minor is travelling unaccompanied, they must have in their possession:

• A valid passport
• copy of his /her birth certificate
• parental consent letters
• copy of the passport(s)/identity document(s) of the parent(s) / legal guardian(s)
• contact details of the parent(s)/ legal guardian(s)
• letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his / her residential address and contact details in the Republic where the child will reside
• copy of the identity document / valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic
• where applicable, – copy of an adoption order – copy of a death certificate of the deceased parent/ parents or legal guardian; – copy of a court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship in respect of the child

Minors in alternative care (i.e. foster care, temporary safe care or in a youth care centre following a court order) need in their possession:

• A letter from the Provincial Head of the Department of Social Development where the child resides authorising their departure from the Republic as contemplated in section 169 of the Children’s Act (Act No. 38 of 2005)

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Who is the child travelling with, select the specific scenario for the child.

Download the recommended Parental Consent Letter form provided by South African Home Affairs (PDF)

Child visa frequently asked questions

Why is the south african government changing the child travel laws and visa regulations, who does this affect, does it affect travellers in transit, what documents are needed by children travelling to and from south africa, how recently must the documents be issued, must i travel with the original documents, what is an unabridged birth certificate, what about birth certificates and documents that are not in english, what if there is no such thing as an unabridged birth certificate in my country, how to obtain an unabridged birth certificate in south africa.

• Both parents’ ID books
• The child’s ID number

My child is adopted so our names are not on her birth certificate, what should I do?

We are a gay couple (two fathers) and both our names appear on the unabridged birth certificate. if we are both travelling with our child, will that suffice, what if my child is travelling with grandparents or extended family members, what if my child is travelling with a school group, what will happen if we don’t have the required documentation at the time of check-in, how can i contact at the south african department of home affairs.

Apply for a passport or travel document

Note: The Department of Home Affairs has launched an online booking system for some offices. For list of offices visit  http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/notices/1557-branch-appointment-booking-system-babs-available-offices . To book an appointment go to  https://services.dha.gov.za/#/authenticate/identity . 

You need a passport if you want to travel abroad.

A passport is a document issued by a national government for international travel and it certifies the identity and nationality of the holder. You must have a South African identity document to apply for a passport, or if you are a child, a birth certificate.

If you are travelling on official government business, you may apply for an official passport. Diplomats get a diplomatic passport.

Find out more about passport or travel documents or contact the Department of Home Affairs .

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South Africa

Travel Advisory February 5, 2024

South africa - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect safety consideration when using GPS navigation. 

Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to  crime  and  civil unrest . 

Country Summary:   Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark.

Using GPS navigation can lead to unsafe routes. GPS navigation may suggest shortcuts through townships as the quickest preferred route but can lead to increased risks of crime.

There have been incidents in which tourists traveling in Cape Town while using GPS navigation apps have been routed through residential areas with high rates of violent crime. The safest approach to return a rental car to Cape Town International Airport is to take the N2 highway and follow signs to Airport Approach Rd ( exit 16 ). Alternatively, request the rental car company to collect your vehicle and subsequently arrange an airport transfer from established taxi companies or established ridesharing services to reach the airport.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services; such events have the potential to turn violent. 

Please see our  Alerts  for up-to-date information. 

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Africa. 

 If you decide to travel to South Africa: 

• Research your route in advance, stay on major highways, avoid shortcuts through townships, and avoid reliance on GPS navigation apps.
• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. 
• Avoid visiting informal settlement areas unless you are with someone familiar with the area. 
• Do not display cash or valuables. 
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed. 
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Africa. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

30 days beyond your intended date of exit from South Africa..

2 consecutive empty visa pages per entry (not including endorsement pages).

No, if visiting 90 days or less.

Yellow fever at least 10 days before arrival is required for travelers originating from or transiting through WHO-designated yellow fever countries.

ZAR 25,000; Foreign currency unlimited if declared; No Kruger coins.

ZAR 25,000; Foreign currency unlimited if amount was declared on entry; Up to 15 Kruger coins if proof purchased with foreign currency.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Pretoria 877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia Pretoria 0083 South Africa Telephone: +(27)(12) 431-4000 / 012-431-4000 Fax: +(27)(12) 431-5504 / 012-431-5504 The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria does not provide consular services to the public. Facebook Twitter Email: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg 1 Sandton Drive (opposite Sandton City Mall) Johannesburg 2196 South Africa Telephone: +(27)(11) 290-3000 / 011-290-3000 (Monday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(27) 79-111-1684 / 079-111-1684 (from within South Africa) Fax: +(27)(11) 884-0396 / 011-884-0396 Email: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Cape Town 2 Reddam Avenue, West Lake 7945, Cape Town, South Africa Telephone: +(27)(21) 702-7300 / 021-702-7300 (from within South Africa) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(27) 702-7300 / 079-111-0391 (from within South Africa) Fax: +(27)(21) 702-7493 / 021-702-7493 (from within South Africa) Email: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Durban 303 Dr. Pixley KaSeme Street (formerly West Street) 31st Floor Delta Towers Durban 4001 South Africa Telephone:  +(27) (31) 305-7600/031-305-7600 (from within South Africa) Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(27) (31) 305-7600 or +(27) 079-111-1445 / (031) 305-7600 or 079-111-1445 (from within South Africa) Fax: (+27)(31) 305-7691 / 031-305-7691 (from within South Africa) Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

South Africa strictly enforces entry and exit requirements and other immigration laws. Failure to observe these requirements may result in the traveler being denied entry, detained, deported, or deemed inadmissible to enter South Africa in the future.

Please visit the  Department of Home Affairs website  for the most up to date entry and exit requirements.

The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa is located at 3051 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 232-4400. Visit the  Embassy of South Africa  for the most current visa information.

Two Consecutive Blank Visa Pages:  South Africa requires travelers to have two consecutive completely blank visa pages in their passports upon every arrival in South Africa. YOU WILL BE DENIED ENTRY if you do not have two consecutive blank visa pages in your passport. This does not include the endorsement pages.

Traveling with minors:  There are special requirements for minors traveling through South African ports of entry. Visit the  Department of Home Affairs  website for the most up-to-date requirements for traveling with minors to or from South Africa.

Immunizations:  Travelers entering South Africa from WHO-designated countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission must present their current and valid International Certificate of Vaccination as approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) (“yellow card”). See the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s South Africa page .

The U.S. Department of State is not aware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of South Africa. However, South Africa has a high HIV/AIDS prevalence.

Other:  Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Alerts regarding important safety and security information such as demonstrations, road security, and weather events are posted on the  Embassy’s website .

In South Africa the equivalent to the “911” emergency line is 10111.

• The following paragraphs provide a summary, but please read the Department of State’s most recent Overseas Security Advisory Council  Country Security Report  on South Africa, which provides detailed information about safety and security concerns for travelers to South Africa.

Civil Unrest:  Strikes and demonstrations occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification and occasionally turn violent, and may include the burning of vehicles, buildings, or tires – which may serve as roadblocks; throwing rocks or other objects; or physical attacks. Strikes and demonstrations can also interrupt traffic and the provision of electricity, water, public transportation, fuel, and other goods and services. Periodic incidents of mob violence directed against refugees and immigrants from other African countries occur in South Africa.  During labor protests, strike breakers or those perceived to be strike breakers have been violently attacked.  Protests involving taxis and ride hailing services can turn violent.  See Travel and Transportation section below for guidance.

Precautions:

• Avoid demonstrations and use vigilance during your movements around the country. Even events intended to be peaceful can become violent.
• Maintain caution in areas frequented by foreigners.
• Monitor news and  Alerts .

Crime:  South Africa has a very high level of crime Violent crimes occur where people live, work, while in transit or out and about.  Violent residential crimes include armed home invasions by organized criminal groups resulting in assaults, rapes, and murder.  Popular tourist destinations and major hotel chains employ their own security that largely minimize such incidents on their properties.  Armed robbery, rape, kidnapping for ransom, carjacking, mugging, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles affect visitors and residents alike. Extra vigilance at traffic lights and on/off ramps where cars slow or stop is warranted.  To avoid robbery outside higher end stores when buying jewelry or electronics, many vendors will deliver your purchase to your home or hotel for a fee.  Crime can occur anywhere and anytime, including in and around Kruger National Park, and U.S. government staff and visitors have been robbed in the immediate vicinity of our diplomatic facilities. You should exercise particular caution in the central business districts (CBDs) of major cities, especially after dark. Crime victims have also been followed from the arrival hall of OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg and then robbed once they reach their home or hotel.

Theft can be bold and in broad daylight.  Travelers and U.S. diplomats report having cell phones stolen from their hands, as well as purses or wallets taken off counters while paying for goods at stores.  Car theft and hijacking continues to plague the country, particularly in large cities.  Travelers should choose secure parking options and double check locked doors before leaving a parked car.

Throughout South Africa, U.S. citizens should:

• Avoid walking alone especially after dark.
• Avoid visiting informal settlement areas unless you are with someone familiar with the area. Please note that U.S. mission staff are required to use fully armored vehicles when visiting many townships in and around the Cape Town area and visiting hours are restricted to between 0700-1500 hours.
• Do not display cash and valuables.
• Avoid cash-in-transit vehicles both on the road, as well as ATMs when being refilled.  Armed criminal gangs frequently target cash-in-transit vehicles while stopped at customer sites, but also ambush cash-in-transit vehicles while on the road.  Such violent armed attacks involve automatic weapons, explosives, and gangs of criminals.  Criminals frequently use remote jamming and signal interceptors with success.
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Avoid driving during periods of load shedding (rolling blackouts) as the roads can become extremely congested due to a lack of traffic signals. These traffic jams and slow-moving traffic can provide opportunities for smash and grab robberies.

Student Groups:  There have been instances of student groups being robbed while conducting outreach and service visits in townships. On these occasions, student groups coordinated with officials to conduct service visits and upon arrival were held and then robbed by armed perpetrators.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in South Africa. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/Relative targeting
• Free Trip/Luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Travelers need not surrender their credit card to any vendor.  They will bring a credit card machine to customers.

ATM and Credit Card skimming is common and visitors should be cautious about using ATMs outside of banks and reputable hotels.  Skimmers have also been found on machines used to pay parking tickets at shopping malls and office buildings.  Paying parking fees with cash avoids this risk.

See the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime:

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence should report crimes to the local police at 10111. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

The U.S. Consulates General in South Africa can:

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Terrorism Threat:  Extremists with ties to international terrorist organizations, such as al-Qai’ida, al-Shabaab, and ISIS, historically have used South Africa as a logistical hub to conduct recruitment and financial facilitation. There has been increased activity by ISIS sympathizers and supporters locally, including the placement of incendiary devices and kidnapping for ransom operations. South African authorities have periodically arrested individuals and charged them with terrorism related crimes. The U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control has publicly designated ISIS members operating in South Africa who have provided technical, financial, or material support to the terrorist group.  Check the  Mission’s website  to review Alerts to U.S. citizens, and  register  with the U.S. Mission to South Africa to receive new Alerts by email during your travels.

Game parks and outdoor safety:  Visitors have been injured and killed by wild animals in South Africa. It is dangerous to leave your vehicle in game parks outside of designated areas. Observe all park regulations and follow the instructions of guides. Be mindful of sharks when swimming. Rip tides are common and very dangerous. Do not swim alone in isolated areas or dive into unfamiliar waters.

Hikers must be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and ensure they have proper clothing and supplies. Many areas, especially in the Western Cape province, experience brush fires during the summer months (December-February). These fires can burn for several days. Monitor local media and follow fire crew instructions regarding road closures and evacuations.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules regarding best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas and activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to arrive on the scene and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Infrastructure: Currently, periodic scheduled blackouts (known locally as “Load Shedding”) are common throughout the country.  These controlled rolling blackouts are employed to safeguard the country’s electrical grid and has resulted in nationwide outages of up to six hours or more without power daily. These electricity outages negatively impact businesses which do not possess an alternative power supply (e.g., diesel generators) including hotels. Additionally, during periods of load shedding, traffic lights will cease functioning creating traffic jams which provide opportunities for smash and grab crime. Load shedding can also impact water availability and safety, cell phone signal, fuel pumps (and therefore fuel availability), and residential security features especially in rural areas.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice website .

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the nearest U.S. Consulate in South Africa immediately . See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  
• Human Rights Report  
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in South Africa. [ER1]

See   our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  South Africa law mandates access to buildings for persons with disabilities, but these laws are rarely enforced. Some tourist attractions, and restaurants near tourist attractions, are equipped with ramps and other options to facilitate access. Conditions vary significantly across the country.

The law in South Africa prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual and mental disabilities, and the law is enforced unevenly. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Special Circumstances:  Parts of South Africa may face drought conditions, water scarcity, and rainfall patterns that may be erratic. Water supplies in some areas may be affected. Water-use restrictions may be in place in the affected municipalities.

For emergency services in South Africa, dial  10111 .

Ambulance services are

• not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards;
• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except in major cities and may;   
• not be equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• We do not pay medical bills.  U.S. Medicare does not cover you overseas. Healthcare providers, including ambulances require payment in cash before services are performed.

Private medical facilities are good in urban areas and in the vicinity of game parks but limited elsewhere. Private medical facilities require a deposit before admitting patients. Pharmacies are well-stocked, but you should carry an adequate supply of prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. HIV and AIDS is a major public health concern.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

If your health insurance plan does not provide coverage overseas, we strongly recommend  supplemental medical insurance and medical evacuation plans .

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Embassy of South Africa  to ensure the medication is legal in South Africa. Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Yellow Fever
• Leptospirosis
• Schistosomiasis
• African Tick-bite Fever
• Chikungunya
• Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever
• Rift River Valley
• Avian/Bird Flu
• Tuberculosis (TB)

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of  doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available in urban areas but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls.  Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Water Quality

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

General Health Language

• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• HIV/AIDS is prevalent in South Africa and by some estimates as many as 1 in 7 South African residents are infected. Infection rates are even higher (1 in 5) among younger residents.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in South Africa.  

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions are generally good in South Africa, but the road traffic death rate is nearly three times higher in South Africa than in the United States. The high incidence of road traffic mortality is due to a combination of poor driving, limited enforcement of traffic laws, road rage, aggressive driving, distracted driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol. Use extreme caution driving at night. U.S. government employees are discouraged from driving after dark outside of major metropolitan areas, except for highway travel between Pretoria and Johannesburg. Traffic lights are frequently out of order.

Traffic Laws: Traffic in South Africa moves on the left, and the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the car. Under South African law, all occupants of motor vehicles equipped with seatbelts are required to wear them while the vehicle is in operation. Texting or talking on a cell phone without a hands-free unit while driving is illegal. Treat all intersections with malfunctioning traffic lights as a four-way stop.

South African law does not require an international driver’s license. A valid driver’s license from any U.S. state or territory that has the signature and photo of the driver is valid to drive in South Africa for stays of less than six months.

Please refer to the Road Safety page  for more information. Also, visit the websites of South African Tourism and the South African National Roads Agency for more information regarding local transportation trends and laws.

Public Transportation:

Taxis: The use of individual metered taxis dispatched from established taxi companies, hotel taxis, and tour buses is recommended. U.S. government personnel are not allowed to use minibus taxis or hail taxis on the street or use a taxi stand. Minibus taxi drivers are often unlicensed and drive erratically.

Transportation Network Companies: Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), such as Uber, also operate in South Africa. U.S. government personnel may only use TNCs with a dispatch application that provides vehicle description, license plate number, and the driver’s name, picture, user rating, and the ability to share trip information. The user should verify the information provided by the company, such as the vehicle make/model, license plate number, and driver’s name/picture, prior to entering the vehicle. TNCs should not be used to travel outside major metropolitan areas. Pick up and drop off should not be done near a traditional taxi stand due to tensions between rideshare and taxi drivers that have resulted in altercations.

Rail Service: The long-distance rail service, Shosholoza Meyl; the rapid rail Gautrain in Gauteng Province; and luxury rail services, such as Shosholoza Meyl Premier Classe, Blue Train, and Rovos Rail are generally safe and reliable, though mechanical problems and criminal incidents do sometimes occur. U.S. government personnel are not allowed to use the Metrorail commuter rail service because of safety and crime concerns. There have been recent reports of fires being set on Metrorail train cars.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of South Africa’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization aviation safety standards for oversight of South Africa’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to South Africa should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the Maritime Administration website. Information may also be posted to the websites of the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Geospace Intelligence Agency (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in South Africa . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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NOTICE: The Department of Home Affairs no longer issues Temporary Passports. >>> CLICK HERE FOR THE NOTICE <<<

General information about south african passports.

A passport is a document issued by a national government for international travel and it certifies the identity and nationality of the holder.

Applicants should note that In terms of section 26(B) of the South African Citizenship Act, 1995, it is a punishable offence for a South African citizen of 18 years and older to leave or enter South Africa on a foreign passport.

South African passports and travel documents are issued in terms of the South African Passports and Travel Documents Act, 1994, and the related Regulations.

Permanent South African passports  and travel documents (machine-readable documents) are printed only in Pretoria, South Africa, from where they are dispatched to the offices of application. Applications made within South African borders can be submitted to any office of the Department of Home Affairs; applications made outside of the country can be submitted to your nearest South Africa embassy or mission.

It is important to know that when you apply for a passport, whether in South Africa or overseas, you must apply in person because: 

• The passport officer must be satisfied that your identity is legal and valid
• The passport officer must check that your photograph is a true image of yourself; and
• Your fingerprints must be taken (for people who are aged 16 years or older) and checked against the National Population Register

You must also note that:

• All documents required for passport applications should be completed in black ink
• Husband, wife and children must all complete separate application forms.  Both parents and the children concerned must be present when applying for passports for children. See exceptions under Tourist Passports:persons under 16
• Passports are issued in accordance with your names as they appear in the National Population Register (NPR) at the time of your application.  Any changes to your names must be applied for, finalised and recorded in the NPR before you submit your passport application

You must have a South African identity number when you apply for a passport. In the event that you do not have a South African identity number, you must apply for the registration of your birth and for a South African identity document, as the case may be, first.

If you do not have a valid regular passport and you need to travel urgently, you can apply for an emergency travel document/certificate subject to the requirements below. Remember that some countries do not accept emergency travel documents/certificates. You must check this with the relevant authorities of the country you intend visiting before applying for emergency passport/travel certificates.

Except for official and diplomatic passports, fees are applicable for all types of passport / travel document applications. Applications to replace lost, stolen or damaged passports will be double the normal fee if the incident was as a result of the passport/travel document owner’s negligence.

A regular tourist passport contains 32 pages, but frequent travellers can opt to get a maxi tourist passport with 48 pages.

Tourist passports: persons16 years and older and maxi tourist passports are only issued to SA citizens 16 years or older. These passports are valid for 10 years.

Tourist passports: persons under 16 years are issued to SA citizens who are aged 15 years or younger. These passports are valid for 5 years.

Passports cannot be renewed. Once the validity period of a passport expires you will have to submit a new application for a passport.

Passports must be valid for at least 30 days after the intended date of departure. Passports should also have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. The blank pages cannot include the “endorsement” page at the back of the book. If you need a visa, you must ensure that your passport has two blank facing pages – one for the visa and one for an entry stamp.

South African passports include the following information:

• A photo of the passport holder
• Type of passport
• Issuing country
• Passport number
• Given names and surname of the passport holder
• Nationality of the passport holder
• Gender of passport holder
• Birth place
• Expiry date
• Issuing authority

Applying for tourist passports: Persons 16 years and older

These passports are issued to SA citizens who are 16 years and older.  The passports are valid for 10 years from the date of issue, and are not renewable. When your South African passport expires you have to complete a new application to get a new passport. 

To apply for the passport, you must submit the following documents:

• A duly completed passport application Form DHA-73
• Your original identity document and a copy, or a birth certificate and copy thereof if under 16
• If under 18 years, parental consent for issuing of the passport. Please see Tourist passports: persons under 16 for the requirements
• A completed determination of citizenship Form DHA-529  when applying from abroad
• Present any existing valid tourist passport or if you have lost your passport or it has been stolen and you are applying for a new passport,  you must provide a loss of passport report (DHA-335 ) and confirmation that you reported the loss to the police
• Two colour photographs that comply with the Passport and ID Photograph Specifications  (NOT needed at smartcard offices as ID images are captured digitally)
• Pay the prescribed fee for the passport

Applying for Maxi Tourist Passports

Maxi tourist passports are 48-page documents meant for frequent travellers. They are the same as regular tourist passports except that they contain more pages for visas.

They are issued only to SA citizens  aged 16 years or older. The documents are valid for 10 years and are not renewable. Once the validity period of a passport expires you will have to submit a new application for a passport. 

To apply for a Maxi tourist passport you must submit the following documents:

• If under 18 years, the prescribed consent by parents must be furnished. Please see Tourist passports: persons under 16 for the requirements
• A completed determination of citizenship Form DHA-529  when applying from abroad
• Pay prescribed fees

Applying for Tourist  Passports: Persons under 16 years

These passports are issued to SA citizens who are 15 years or younger.  The passports are valid for 5 years and are not renewable.  Once the validity period of a passport expires you will have to submit a new application for a passport. 

To apply for the passport you must submit the following documents:

• If the parents are married, the passport application form must be signed by both parents and the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted.
• Please note that the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted to the nearest Home Affairs office or SA Mission/Consulate. If a parent cannot be in attendance, a letter of consent and copy of ID will no longer be accepted.
• If divorced and sole parental rights and responsibilities in regard to guardianship have not been granted to one parent, the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted and both must sign the application form.
• If a parent is deceased, his or her death certificate and a copy thereof must accompany the application for the passport
• In the case of minors born out of wedlock, the biological father ’s consent will also be required if any of the circumstances as outlined in section 21 of the Children’s Act, 1995, are applicable, the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted.
• If the applicant is in the care of a guardian other than the parents, proof of the High Court’s appointment must accompany the application.
• If a parent cannot be located or refuses to consent, or a dispute concerning consent arises, the matter should be referred to the Children’s Court. The Court’s decision must be submitted with the application for the passport.
• The child’s South African birth certificate and a copy thereof
• Two colour passport photographs that comply with the Passport and ID Photograph Specifications  (NOT needed at smartcard offices as ID images are captured digitally)
• Payment of the prescribed passport fee 

Applying for Official passports

Official passports are issued to officials attached to government institutions who have to travel on official business. These passports are only valid for a period of 5 years. 

To apply for an official passport you must submit the following documents:

• Your original identity document and a copy
• A letter on the official letterhead and signed by the head of institution or his or her delegate confirming that the passport is needed for an official trip and that you are employed by the institution
• Two colour  photographs that comply with the Passport and ID Photograph Specifications  (NOT needed at smartcard offices as ID images are captured digitally)
• Submit your existing valid official passport or if lost or stolen a lost passport report (DHA-335) as well as confirmation that the loss was reported to the police

You will also have to sign an undertaking

• To use the official passport only for duly authorised trips
• To keep the passport in safe custody
• Hand in the passport to the Department of Home Affairs if you leave government service or you will no longer require an official passport
• To return your passport to a designated person in your department or organisation for safe-keeping on return from your official trip
• To report the loss of an official passport to the SA Police Services and the designated person in your department or organisation as soon as possible after the loss.

Applying for Diplomatic passports

Diplomatic passports are administered by the Department of International Relations . Enquiries should be directed to the Protocol Section in the aforesaid Department.

Applying for Documents for Travel Purposes

Documents for travel purposes are issued to South African permanent residence permit holders who cannot obtain travel documents from their countries of origin. These documents are only valid for a period of 5 years. 

To apply for a document for travel purposes, you must submit the following:

• Written confirmation by your country of origin that the country cannot issue you with a passport, except in the case of refugees that have been granted permanent residence as a refugee.
• If under 18 years, the prescribed consent by parents must be furnished. See requirements under Tourist passports for persons under 16
• Your permanent residence permit and a copy thereof
• Your original SA non-citizen identity document and a copy thereof
• Payment of the prescribed fee.

  Applying for Crew Member Certificates

Crew member certificates are issued to South Africans who are crew members of an airline registered in South Africa. 

To apply for a crew member certificate you must submit the following documents:

• A duly completed  passport application Form DHA-73
• Your original SA identity document and a copy thereof
• Official letter from your employer confirming that you are employed by the airline 

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What are the travel requirements for children under 18 in South Africa?

Suppose you’re a South African parent planning to travel with your children and want to know “What are the travel requirements for children under 18 in South Africa?”. In that case, this article will explore the travel requirements for children under 18 in South Africa, providing an overview of the rules and procedures that parents or guardians must adhere to when travelling with minors. In South Africa, like in many other countries, there are specific travel requirements for children under 18. These regulations safeguard children, prevent trafficking, and ensure safe, enjoyable travel, focusing on child protection from abduction and harm. These requirements pertain to South African citizens and foreign nationals travelling to or from South Africa, emphasizing universal applicability. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to significant delays or even denied entry at the border. These travel requirements for children under 18 in South Africa are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of children and to prevent situations where children are taken out of the country without the knowledge and consent of both parents. They also help South African authorities combat child trafficking, a serious global issue.

Overview of travelling with children under the age of 18 in South Africa

An important part of answering the “What are the travel requirements for children under 18 in South Africa?” is knowing the background of the travel requirements when travelling with minors.  In 2015, the South African government introduced strict regulations regarding the travel of minors in and out of the country. These regulations were updated and clarified in 2019. The South African Home Affairs Department updated the rules for children under the age of 18 travelling , making it compulsory for them to carry birth certificates from 11th November 2019. The requirement solely pertains to minors holding South African passports. They must provide a birth certificate or equivalent proof of both parents’ details for international travel to/from South Africa.

In addition to the unabridged birth certifi cate, children travelling to or from South Africa must have written consent from both parents or legal guardians. The consent must contain the child’s travel specifics: departure date, destination, and trip duration details for the intended journey. This requirement ensures that children are not taken out of the country without the knowledge and consent of both parents. Furthermore,  in cases where one or both parents are deceased or cannot provide consent, a court order granting permission for the child’s travel must be presented. In the case of a deceased parent, a copy of the death certificate should also be provided. These regulations prioritize child safety by preventing abduction and trafficking during international travel, safeguarding their best interests continuously.

The Requirements for Travelling with Minors in South Africa

Travelling with children can be a complex process, and parents and guardians must plan ahead and ensure that they have all the necessary documents and permissions in place well before their travel dates. Below, you will discover the necessary requirements and categories for travelling with children under the age of 18:

1. For a child accompanied by both parents:

The required documents include a valid passport and a copy of the child’s birth certificate or an equivalent document. Alternatively, a passport containing the parent or parents’ details can be used.

2. For a child accompanied by one parent:

The necessary documents include the child’s valid passport, a copy of the child’s birth certificate or a similar official document, a parental consent letter, and a copy of the passport or identity document of the absent parent. It’s also essential to have contact details for the absent parent readily available. Sometimes, a court order granting full parental responsibilities, legal guardianship, or rights for the child may be necessary. If one of the parents is deceased, carrying a copy of the death certificate is crucial as well.

3. For a child in alternative care:

You will need to provide a valid passport, a valid visa when necessary, and a letter issued by the Provincial Head of the Department of Social Development in the child’s place of residence. This letter authorizes the child’s departure from the country, as outlined in section 169 of the Children’s Act .

4. For a child travelling with a person who is not their biological parent:

The person must provide the child’s valid passport, a copy of their birth certificate or an equivalent official document, and parental consent letter(s) signed by the child’s legal guardian(s) or parent(s) granting permission for the child to travel with the accompanying adult. Additionally, copies of the passport(s) or identity document(s) of the accompanying adult are required to establish their identity and relationship with the child. Contact details for the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must be provided for communication during the trip. In specific cases, such as the death of a biological parent, adoption, or legal guardianship, additional documents like a death certificate, adoption order, or a court order granting parental responsibilities and rights may be necessary.

5. For an unaccompanied child (this includes a minor accompanied by another minor):

Birth certificates and consent letters are essential for a child’s identity and travel permission, duly signed by relevant parties. Additionally,  copies of parent(s) or legal guardian(s) passport or ID are necessary for identity and parental relationship verification. Contact information for the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) is required for communication during the trip. A letter from the person in the country who will receive the child must also be provided. This should include the recipient’s residential address and contact details, indicating where the child will be residing. Furthermore, copies of the identity document, valid passport, and any required visa or permanent residence permit of the individual receiving the child in the country are essential for verifying the recipient’s identity and legal status. In specific situations, additional documents like an adoption order, a death certificate of the deceased parent(s) or legal guardian, or a court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship may be needed.

When it comes to travelling with minors adherence to the travel requirements for children under 18 in South Africa is essential. Parents and guardians should possess necessary documents like unabridged birth certificates, consent letters, adoption certificates, and divorce decrees.  This ensures smooth travel and child safety. Compliance aids enjoyable family travel experiences and supports the global fight against child trafficking and abduction, fostering safety.

Frenchside Translation At Your Service!

At Frenchside Translation, we can help you by connecting you with sworn translators who will provide you with exceptional service. We provide our translation services to clients in Pretoria, Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. Our agency can provide you with qualified translators for various South African and European official languages. We also offer affordable document apostille services at reasonable prices. Therefore we are your one-stop shop for organising a successful trip with your children. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact us. Tel: 012 348 3134| Mobile: 081 347 6060 | Email: [email protected]  

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Travelling with children: Here’s what travel documents you really need

(Partner Content) Prior to 2015, South Africans travelling with their children only needed to ensure that everyone’s passports were in check and that the visas were in place before heading into or out of the country.

However, in June 2015, the South African Department of Home Affairs made it mandatory that all minor children (under the age of 18) should be accompanied by an Unabridged Birth Certificate when travelling internationally. 

These rules were set up to help reduce and prevent child trafficking across South African borders, but since some ports of entries are a lot more lenient than others, it can be quite tricky to know whether or not you really need to travel with your child’s unabridged birth certificate. 

There’s also the fact that new child passports issued after November 2019 are said to automatically include your child’s unabridged birth certificate, which would presumably waive the need to travel with an extensive collection of documents. But alas, that isn’t always the case. Some ports of entry still request to see the separate birth certificate and do not accept the shortened version thereof contained within the child passport. 

So what are the requirements then? What documents do parents need to have on hand when travelling abroad with their kids? 

The truth of the matter is that it is always best to play it safe. Travelling with your child’s unabridged birth certificate might add more admin to your to-do list, but travelling without it can derail your travel plans. 

What documents are needed for travelling with children to and from South Africa?

In short : all children under 18 entering or leaving the country need to be accompanied with proof that they are either travelling with both their biological parents or with the consent of both their biological parents. If the child is travelling with just one of the biological parents, a formal written consent letter – signed by the absent parent – has to accompany the minor. Along with other vital travel documents like passports and visas, you also need to present your child’s Unabridged Birth Certificate at all ports. Even though some authorities do not always request these documents, parents simply cannot afford to travel without it. 

It is extremely important to take note that you always need to travel with these documents even if you heard rumours that they are not needed. The safest way to travel with minors will always be one where you have all supporting documents (including the unabridged birth certificate) on hand.

What is an Unabridged Birth Certificate?

Your child’s Unabridged Birth Certificate ( UBC ) reflects the details of both biological parents. All children born after March 2013 were (and are) automatically issued with the UBC and everyone under the age of 18 planning to travel into or out of South Africa must present this document along with other vital travel documents. The only time this official certificate is not required is for domestic travel within the borders of South Africa.

If one parents is not present, has passed away, or if there are other parental guardians, an unaccompanied child, and so on, there are other things potentially to obtain, such as a death certificate. See this official press release from the Department of Home Affairs in 2019.

How do I get a copy of my child’s Unabridged Birth Certificate?

If your child was born prior to March 2013, you would have been issued with the old version of the birth certificate, known as the abridged birth certificate. In this case, you will need to apply for an unabridged version at your closest Home Affairs office, but in most cases, applying for vital documents like these takes months, precious time most of us simply do not have. 

The good news is that you can make use of document specialists (like Apostil.co.za ) and fast track the turnaround time. Document specialists work directly with the DHA in order to get documents expedited in the shortest time possible. 

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International Travel With South African Minors

Travelling out of South Africa with a minor? There are certain requirements you need to comply with depending on your particular situation – from straightforward documentation such as visas and birth certificates to requiring court orders or written parental consent.

South African Requirements For Minors Travelling Internationally

Pursuant to the 2011 amendments to the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No 13 of 2002) and the subsequent Immigration Regulations promulgated on 22 May 2014, guidance material was revised to accord with the new provisions.

Aspects related to South Africa’s immigration requirements as they pertained to minors were held in abeyance until 1 June 2015.

The following main categories of travel cases are discernible:

1. Child in alternative care

Valid Passport

Valid visa, if required

Letter from the Provincial Head of Department of Social Development where the child resides authorising his or her departure from the Republic as contemplated in section 169 of the Children’s Act.

2. Minor accompanied by both of his or her parents

Unabridged Birth Certificate (UBC) or equivalent document

3. Minor accompanied by one parent where parents are neither divorced nor is travelling parent widowed

Unabridged Birth Certificate or Equivalent Document and Parental Consent Affidavit or Court order granted in terms of section 18(5) of the Children’s Act, 2005 or Letter of Special Circumstances.

Note: In the case of single parents, where only one parent’s particulars appear on the Unabridged Birth Certificate or Equivalent Document, no Parental Consent Affidavit is required. In the case where parents were never married but both parents’ particulars appear on the Unabridged Birth Certificate or Equivalent Document, the consent of the non-travelling parent is required In the case of same-sex parents appearing on the Unabridged Birth Certificate, it may be accepted (e.g. 2 mother or 2 fathers).

4. Minor travelling with one parent who is divorced or legally separated and who has been granted full parental responsibilities and rights (previously called – sole custody) or full legal guardianship in respect of the minor.

Unabridged Birth Certificate or Equivalent Document

Court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights (previously called sole custody) or full legal guardianship in respect of the minor.

5. Minor travelling with one parent who is divorced or legally separated and who has been granted specific parental responsibilities and rights (previously called – joint custody) or legal guardianship in respect of the minor.

Court order granting specific parental responsibilities and rights (previously called joint custody) or joint legal guardianship in respect of the minor; and Parental Consent Affidavit or Court order granted in terms of section 18(5) of the Children’s Act, 2005, or Letter of Special Circumstances.

Note: Where the accompanying parent presents a Parental Consent Affidavit and both parents’ names on the Unabridged Birth Certificate correspond with the names on the Parental Consent Affidavit and the travelling parent’s passport, a court granting specific parental responsibilities and rights or joint legal guardianship may be dispensed with.

6. Minor travelling with widow or widower parent

Death certificate of the deceased parent

7. Orphaned minor where no formal order of guardianship or adoption has been granted as yet

Letter of Special Circumstances.

8. Minor accompanied by a person who is not his or her biological parent

Parental Consent Affidavit or Letter of Special Circumstances.

Where a Parental Consent Affidavit is presented

Copies of the identity documents or passports of the parents or legal guardian of the minor

Contact details of the person in whose care the minor will be in South Africa.

9. Minor accompanied by his or her adoptive parent(s)

Unabridged Birth Certificate of the minor reflecting particulars of adoptive parent(s), or Pending the issuance of the Unabridged Birth Certificate containing the names of the adoptive parent(s), a court order confirming the adoption of the minor by the adoptive parent(s) accompanying him or her.

NOTE: Where only one of the adoptive parents is travelling with the minor or where such a minor is travelling unaccompanied, the Parental Consent Affidavit will still be required by the absent adoptive parent(s), or, in the case of a deceased adoptive parent, a copy of such parent’s death certificate.

Where either or both adoptive parents are unable to issue a written consent due to recent death or incapacity a Letter of Special Circumstances may replace the Parental Consent Affidavit.

10. Unaccompanied Minor (this category includes a minor accompanied by another minor)

Parental Consent Affidavit or Letter of Special Circumstances

Letter from the person who is to receive the minor in the Republic, containing his or her residential address and contact details in the Republic where the minor will be residing

Copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the minor in the Republic

Contact details of the parents or legal guardian of the minor. (This may be contained in the Parental Consent Affidavit.)

General Notes:

1. All documents must be either original or copies certified as a true copy of the original by a commissioner of oaths or equivalent commissioning authority, should commissioners of oath not be a practice in the country concerned.

2. The Affidavit must be dated within 4 months of the first arrival or departure travel date. The same affidavit will still be valid for the departure or return in relation to the same journey regardless of the period of the journey. The “first travel” date is the date of first presentation for travel at the Port Of Entry (POE) for a journey that will be completed when the traveller returns or departs to or from the Republic. Minors who started their journey before 1 June 2015 would not be required to produce the documents if the return leg thereof takes place after 1 June 2015. Parental Consent Affidavit

3. Different combinations of the travel cases could occur , e.g. when dealing with a minor accompanied by a person who is not his or her biological child, the requirements relating to divorced or deceased parents must also be taken into account, where applicable. Minors accompanying school tours must also be dealt with in terms of this category of travellers.

4. The following types of Court Orders may be granted:

• Court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights (previously called “sole custody”) or legal guardianship in respect of the minor: In this instance, the consent of the other parent is not required;
• Court order in which both parents are granted responsibilities and rights in respect of the minor: The consent of the other parents is required; and
• Court orders that are silent on the parental responsibilities and rights: The consent of the other parent is required.

5. Visas Where a child applies for a visa inside South Africa or at a South African embassy abroad it shall be standard practise for all supporting documents to be submitted prior to the visa being issued.

Should authentic visas be produced by the minor but any other supporting documents be unavailable, it may be assumed that all supporting documents have been provided.

6. Exceptions Diplomatic/ consular representatives accredited in South Africa travelling with his or her children: – An accreditation card issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) containing the particulars of the children may be accepted in lieu of the supporting documents. Where such a child is travelling unaccompanied or with the other parent who is not a diplomat the same card may be produced;

An Unabridged Birth Certificate should not be required in the case of countries that endorse the particulars of parents in children’s passports, e.g. India;

Minors accompanying VIPs were Protocol Officer is present at Port Of Entry. (No supporting documents will be required in these cases);

No supporting documents will be required by persons in direct transit at an International Airport.

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South Africa

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in South Africa set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact South Africa’s High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Passport validity requirements

To avoid problems at immigration, your passport should:

• be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from South Africa
• have 2 blank pages

You can read more about South Africa’s  Immigration Regulations on the Department of Home Affairs’ website .

Dual nationals

If you hold South African citizenship, you must use your South African passport to enter and exit the country. It is illegal for a South African citizen aged 18 or over to enter or leave the country on a foreign passport. For more information about South African passports, see the South Africa Department of Home Affairs .

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit South Africa for tourism or business for up to 90 days.

Check the expiry date of your visa or entry stamp and ensure you do not overstay.

For more information on visas, contact the South African High Commission .

Travelling with children

There are special requirements for travelling to South Africa with children under 18, and for unaccompanied children entering South Africa. The South African Department of Home Affairs has more information .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

Check UK customs requirements before buying products to take back to the UK.

Taking money into South Africa

There are limits on how much currency you can bring into South Africa:

• cash in South African rand – up to 25,000 rand per person
• combinations of cash in other currencies – up to 10,000 US dollars (or equivalent)

If you’re taking more than this, you need to declare it when you enter South Africa.

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Travel documents for kids

When travelling with your children, most likely you need to bring some additional travel documents. Make sure to check what applies to your family.

Which documents

Which travel documents you need to bring for your kids, depends on a couple of factors:

• your country of departure, transfer, and destination;
• your nationality;
• your country of residence.

We advise checking the embassy website of the country you’re visiting. For detailed information suitable for your trip, check our travel documents tool.

Passport or ID card

Children of European Union citizens travelling from, to or via EU countries need to carry their own passport or ID card. Having their names entered in their parent’s passports is no longer permitted. This restriction does not apply to document holders of the United Kingdom or Ireland.

Consent form for minors

Is your child travelling alone, with only 1 parent or guardian, or with an adult that does not have parental authority? Before going through security control, you’ll have to complete a consent form.

Birth certificate

Does your child have a different last name than you? Please bring the family booklet or birth certificate to prove your connection.

Extra documents for specific destinations

You might need to bring various additional documents for your child for specific destinations. You’ll find detailed information about all destinations in our travel documents tool.

All children younger than 18 years and travelling to Barbados without a parent or legal guardian need to bring a letter of authorisation from their parent or legal guardian. This letter should specify who will pick them up at Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados. It is a mandatory addition to the forms required for the Unaccompanied Minor service.

When travelling alone, their parent or legal guardian need to submit a request to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) via [email protected] .

Read more about the documents needed for Barbados

For travel to and from Brazil, all children born in Brazil need to bring several documents, regardless of whether they travel with both parents, 1 parent, an accompanying adult, or alone.

Read more about the documents needed for Brazil

South Africa

For travel to and from South Africa, some children require special documentation: children with the South African nationality and children of any nationality travelling as unaccompanied minors.

Read more about the documents needed for South Africa

Read more about

Travelling with kids.

Get a glimpse of what your kids can expect during their flight.

Ticket options for kids

Travelling with your child? Find out which ticket option is available for your little one, depending on their age.

Children travelling alone

You need the Unaccompanied Minor service for children between 5 and 14 years old who are travelling alone.

Middle East latest: US blocks UN from recognising a Palestinian state after membership vote veto

The US has vetoed a motion that would see Palestine join the United Nations as a full member. The move essentially denies Palestine's recognition as a state in the eyes of the UN.

Thursday 18 April 2024 23:40, UK

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As we've been reporting this evening, the UN Security Council has not passed a resolution recommending Palestinian membership, after the US vetoed the motion.

These images show members discussing and voting on the motion, with Robert Wood, United States' ambassador to the UN, the only person to lift their hand when members were asked if they opposed the resolution. 

Some reaction from Palestine now.

The Palestinian presidency has condemned the US veto of a Security Council draft resolution that recommended a full United Nations membership of a Palestinian state. 

The presidency said in a statement the veto was "unfair, unethical and unjustified." 

The deputy permanent observer of the state of Palestine to the UN said praised the 12 members who did vote for the motion: "Thank you to all those who rise to the historical moment."

"We are not deterred in our pursuit for Palestinian freedom and independence," Majed Bamya said. 

The Israeli foreign minister has praised the US for exercising its right to veto a motion that would have seen Palestine become a member of the international organisation. 

"I commend the United States for vetoing this shameful proposal, which was rejected today at the UN Security Council," Israel Katz said in the aftermath of the vote. 

"It is outrageous that even half a year after the 7 October massacre, the UN Security Council failed to condemn Hamas horrific crimes," he added. 

The US has vetoed a motion that would see Palestine join the United Nations as a full member. 

While this shouldn't come as any great surprise, the motion has now been formally vetoed by a permanent member- meaning it cannot pass. 

The move essentially denies Palestine's recognition as a state in the eyes of the UN. 

Twelve countries voted in favour of granting full membership to Palestine, two abstained and the US voted against the motion. 

The Palestinian Authority, based in the West Bank, is currently a non-member observer state at the UN - a position granted by the 193-member General Assembly in 2012.

• Sierra Leone
• South Korea

Abstentions

• Switzerland

Votes against

Why did the US veto? 

We received an explanation from a state department spokesman earlier today. 

"Premature actions in New York (site of the UN headquarters), even with the best intentions, will not achieve statehood for the Palestinian people," Vedant Patel told reporters.

"Specifically, there are unresolved questions as to whether the applicant (Palestine) can meet criteria to be considered as a state," he added. 

He pointed to Hamas's continued grip on power in the enclave as one of the principal reasons for Washington's refusal to back the motion. 

"We've long called on the Palestinian Authority to undertake the necessary reforms to establish the attributes of readiness for statehood and note that Hamas, which is as you all know, a terrorist organisation is currently exerting power and influence in Gaza, which would be an integral part of the envisioned state in this resolution. 

"And for that reason, the United States is voting 'no' on this proposed Security Council resolution."

A former Israeli prime minister believes that Iran has formally declared war on Israel, after a massive drone and missile attack at the weekend. 

Ehud Olmert told Sky's  lead world news presenter  Yalda Hakim  he thought that "strangely or fortunately enough, the event on Saturday night turned out to be a total failure for Iran and a great success for Israel and allies".

Watch part of his interview here...

Protests in Tel Aviv calling for the immediate release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are continuing.

Pressure has been mounting on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu internally to secure the release of around 130 people still being held captive by the group. 

But ceasefire talks have largely stalled after Hamas's repeated refusal to agree to fresh Israeli terms. 

Building on our 5.34pm post, we've now received a readout of the US-Israeli meeting on a potential Rafah offensive. 

"The two sides agreed on the shared objective to see Hamas defeated in Rafah," a White House statement said. 

"US participants expressed concerns with various courses of action in Rafah, and Israeli participants agreed to take these concerns into account and to have further follow up discussions between experts, overseen by the SCG (strategic consultative group)," it added. 

"Participants will meet again soon," it concluded. 

Rafah is the only major city in Gaza yet to be the subject of a ground assault by Israeli troops, but hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians crammed into the city have still been subjected to airstrikes over the past few months. 

Mr Biden has consistently urged Israel not to conduct a large-scale offensive in Rafah to avoid more Palestinian civilian casualties in Gaza, where Hamas-led health authorities say nearly 34,000 people have been killed since October last year. 

Recent Israeli actions to allow more aid to get into Gaza are not enough and more needs to be done, the US state department has said. 

Deputy spokesperson for the department, Vedant Patel, said the situation in Gaza was "dire" despite some progress being made.

"There has been some measurable progress that we've seen when it comes to humanitarian aid getting into Gaza," Mr Patel told a media briefing. 

"But the circumstances within Gaza continue to be dire and more absolutely needs to be done."

By James Matthews , US correspondent 

The Palestinian Authority first sought full membership at the United Nations in 2011. 

If there hasn't been a right time for accession since then, that time certainly isn't now.

Such is the decisive view of the United States - decisive, because the US veto at the UN Security Council means it won't happen.

Membership would, effectively, recognise a Palestinian state.

As the arguments were laid out at the UN in New York, the American rationale was laid out in a state department briefing in Washington.

It was always complicated  -  now throw in the timing and circumstances. 

Spokesperson Vedant Patel said: "Note that Hamas… a terrorist organisation, is currently exerting power and influence in Gaza which will be an integral part of the individual state in this resolution and, for that reason, the United States is voting 'no'."

US opposition had been well-trailed in the run-up to the chamber vote.

Its long-held position is that the UN isn't the place for such a move - that, while it supports a two-state solution in the Middle east, Palestinian statehood should be anchored in a deal negotiated with Israel.

They are words easily written, harder to realise.  

The prospect of dialogue, let alone a deal, between Israel and the Palestinians is currently non-existent.

Israel's view is predominant in Joe Biden's thinking on matters Palestinian, and this is no different.

Israel's UN ambassador Gilad Erdan said: "If the Security Council recommends full membership for the Palestinian Authority that incites and funds terror with no control over its territory, it deserves to be called the UN's 'Terror Council' not 'Security Council."

It isn't a view you’d hear from Biden, publicly at least, but the US President doesn't need reminding of well-catalogued weakness of a Palestinian Authority seen as corrupt, unpopular and unable to wield the influence that Western diplomats wish it could.

The Palestinian view was put to the Security Council by envoy Dr Ziad Abu Amr.  

He told members: "Admitting the state of Palestine to the UN would lift a portion of the historical injustice that successive generations of the Palestinian people have suffered and continue to suffer."

The view resonates with the bulk of his audience.

Not for the first time, the United States finds itself out of step with majority world opinion inside the UN Security Council chamber.

It almost certainly won't be the last. 

In the shadow of growing conflict, a US president with enough on his plate is picking his fights carefully.  

As we reported a short time ago, the US will veto a motion that promised to see Palestine join the United Nations as a full member (see 6.17pm post). 

We've now received a confirmation from Washington and an explanation as to why from a state department spokesman. 

"And for that reason, the United States is voting no on this proposed Security Council resolution."

The move, which has been widely expected from the Israeli ally, will effectively block the world body from recognising the Palestinian state.

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