Before heading off on a family vacation to South Africa, make sure you have the proper documentation.

Effective June 1, 2015, all travelers to and from South Africa under the age of 18 years must provide their birth certificate with the parents’ names in addition to their own passport. A certified copy may and should be used in lieu of the original birth certificate.

There are a few variations to be aware of. In the following situations, be sure to bring:

1. A child traveling with both parents: A certified copy of the birth certificate with both parents’ names on it;
2. A child traveling with one parent: A certified copy of the birth certificate with both parents’ names on it AND an affidavit from the absent parent, consenting that the present parent and child may enter South Africa together OR a court order granting full parental responsibility/legal guardianship to the present parent OR a certified death certificate of the absent parent;
3. A child traveling with adults who are not the parents: A certified copy of the birth certificate with both parents’ names on it AND an affidavit from the parents/legal guardians consenting that the adult has permission to be traveling with the child AND certified copies of identification or passports of the parents/legal guardians AND the contact details of the parents/legal guardians;
4. A child traveling unaccompanied: A certified copy of the birth certificate with both parents’ names on it AND proof of consent from both parents that the child may travel AND a letter from the person who will be receiving the child, including contact information AND a certified copy of the receiving adult’s identification/passport/visa/residence permit AND the contact details of the parents/legal guardians.

While it may take a bit extra work ahead of departure, it is well worth it for the experiences you and your family will have in the amazing country of South Africa.

The Esplanade Travel team is here to answer any further questions you may have.