The Unabridged Birth Certificate (UBC) child travel policy for South Africa, which was made law in 2015 and has since been refuted by inbound tourism stakeholders, has now officially been revoked by the South African Government. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) announced on 07 October that they would be waiving the mandatory UBC for minors travelling to South Africa.

On Friday, 08 November the DHA made the changes to the policy official and circulated a revised travel advisory stating that only a valid passport would be required for foreign minors travelling to South Africa.

The Tourism Business Council South Africa (TBCSA) in partnership with industry stakeholders has successfully lobbied against the legislation which caused confusion for tourists to the destination. TBCSA advised that IATA (International Air Transport Association) has been informed, as well as other airline associations and key industry players at the ports of entry.

Please note that this DOES NOT apply to Botswana – nothing has changed here and children still need to present a birth certificate.

Children under 18 travelling with two parents have to produce the following to enter Botswana:
1. Certified copies of unabridged (ie unchanged or original) birth certificates
2. Passports valid for six months with six empty pages

Children under 18 travelling with one parent or guardians only have to have:
1. All of the above
2. PLUS an affidavit from the living or custodial parent or guardian giving permission for the child to be travelling

If you are unsure what you require, please talk to us and we will be able to help you ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Click here to view the official revised travel advisory.