The home affairs department has finally rectified the contradictory, “badly communicated” advisory on the dropping of the requirement for foreign minors travelling to South Africa to boost tourism – but it could be some time before it comes into effect.
Last month, Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom lamented that the initial advisory had been contradictory to the amended regulations and claimed this had contributed to the airline and travel industry’s confusion.if two parents are travelling from visa-free markets with their children, no documentation will be required;and in the event of suspicion, children who are foreign nationals and who are visa-exempt are strongly advised to carry supporting documents.
“This could not have come at a better time as tourism is a big contributor to the country’s struggling economy.” The Southern African Tourism Services Association said it was interested in the practicality of the regulation stating foreign minors from visa-exempted countries were strongly advised to carry supporting documents, as they could be asked to produce them if deemed necessary and entry could be refused if these were not submitted within 24 hours.