Share

Parents no longer required to travel with unabridged birth certificates (in some cases)

accreditation
A key change being the inclusion of both parents’ details on their children’s passports.
A key change being the inclusion of both parents’ details on their children’s passports.

The paperwork involved when travelling with kids has always been a bother for parents, and Facebook mom groups abound with questions about the documents required. 

So if you haven't yet heard, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) announced that as part of it's move to a paperless system, children's passports will soon include both parent's details. 

A key change being the inclusion of both parents’

This means parents won't have to travel with unabridged birth certificates anymore, which will be a relief to those who dread spending hours in queues at Home Affairs.  

Also read: Upgraded SA children's passport spells relief for travelling parents, sets global precedent

“The issue of parents requiring an unabridged birth certificate for their children for travel purposes has plagued the industry for years, so we welcome this move on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs to reduce barriers to entry to South Africa," Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism, said at the time, echoing parent's sentiments. 

The rollout seems to be sporadic though, in the year since the announcement was made not all new kid's passports reflect the update. 

Some parents have even reported receiving passports with the update for one child, but not their other child. Others have said they were asked to still travel with the previously required paperwork. 

So when you apply for your child's passport, check with Home Affairs to avoid being held up at the border.

Chat back:

Share your story with us, and we could publish your letter. Anonymous contributions are welcome.

Sign up for Parent24's newsletters.

Read more:

Emigrating in 2019? How to help your children adjust

Top tips for travelling with babies and toddlers

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE