Minor Travel Consent Form South Africa: Complete Guide (2025)

When a child travels without both parents in South Africa, a parental consent affidavit is often required. This document protects children from trafficking and ensures that travel is authorised by the legal guardians. Here's everything you need to know about minor travel consent.

When Is a Travel Consent Affidavit Required?

A minor travel consent affidavit may be required when:

• A child travels with only one parent
• A child travels with grandparents, relatives, or family friends
• A child travels on a school or sports trip
• A child travels internationally with anyone other than both biological parents

The requirements are particularly strict for international travel, where immigration officials at airports carefully check documentation.

What Information to Include

Your minor travel consent affidavit should include:

• Child's details: Full name, ID/passport number, date of birth
• Parent/Guardian 1: Full name and ID number of the consenting parent
• Parent/Guardian 2: Full name and ID number (if both parents consent)
• Accompanying adult: Name, ID number, and relationship to the child
• Travel details: Destination country, travel dates (departure and return)
• Flight information: Flight numbers and times (optional but recommended)

Additional Documents You May Need

Besides the affidavit, you may need to bring:

• Unabridged birth certificate - showing both parents' names
• Copy of parents' IDs - certified copies of both parents' identification
• Death certificate - if one parent is deceased
• Court order - if there's a custody arrangement
• Contact details - phone number and address of the non-travelling parent

International Travel Requirements

For international travel, South African immigration requires:

• Child's valid passport
• Unabridged birth certificate (or certified copy)
• Parental consent affidavit from the absent parent(s)
• Copy of the absent parent's ID or passport

Different destination countries may have additional requirements. Always check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country before travelling.

Single Parent Travel

If you're a single parent travelling with your child, you may need:

• Parental consent from the other parent (if they have parental rights)
• A court order granting you full parental responsibilities
• Death certificate (if the other parent is deceased)
• An affidavit explaining the absence of the other parent

Tips for Smooth Travel

• Apply for an unabridged birth certificate well in advance - it can take weeks
• Get the consent affidavit commissioned at least a week before travel
• Carry original documents, not just copies
• Have the non-travelling parent's contact details available
• Arrive at the airport early to allow time for document checks

Domestic vs International Travel

Domestic travel: While not always enforced, airlines and bus companies may request consent documentation. It's safer to have the affidavit ready.

International travel: Strict requirements apply. Missing documentation can result in the child being denied boarding or entry into South Africa upon return.