Entry Requirements for Minors Traveling to South Africa

When minors (children under the age of 18) are traveling to South Africa, certain entry requirements must be met. These requirements differ based on whether the minor is traveling with both parents or legal guardians, one parent, or unaccompanied by any parent or legal guardian. The following are the entry requirements for each scenario:

Minors Traveling with Both Parents or Legal Guardians

1. Valid Passport: The minor must possess a valid passport, which should be valid for at least 30 days after the intended stay in South Africa.

2. Unabridged Birth Certificate: The minor must carry their unabridged birth certificate, which includes the names of both parents.

3. Visa Requirements: Check if the minor requires a visa based on their nationality. Some countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays.

4. Additional Documentation: It is advisable to carry any additional documents that establish the relationship between the minor and their accompanying parents or legal guardians, such as adoption papers or custody agreements.

Minors Traveling with One Parent

1. Valid Passport: The minor must possess a valid passport.

2. Unabridged Birth Certificate: The minor must carry their unabridged birth certificate, which includes the names of both parents.

3. Parental Consent Affidavit: The accompanying parent must carry a duly notarized parental consent affidavit from the non-traveling parent, along with a copy of the non-traveling parent's passport or identification document.

4. Legal Documentation: If one parent has sole custody, court documents proving this should be carried. In case of a deceased parent, a death certificate should be presented.

5. Visa Requirements: Check if the minor requires a visa based on their nationality. Some countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays.

Minors Traveling Unaccompanied by Any Parent or Legal Guardian

1. Valid Passport: The minor must possess a valid passport.

2. Unabridged Birth Certificate: The minor must carry their unabridged birth certificate, which includes the names of both parents.

3. Parental Consent Affidavit: The minor should present a duly notarized parental consent affidavit from both parents or legal guardians, authorizing their travel.

4. Contact Details: The minor should carry contact details of the person(s) they are staying with in South Africa, including their full name, address, and contact number.

5. Visa Requirements: Check if the minor requires a visa based on their nationality. Some countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays.