Changes To Immigration Rules Delayed Until June

The introduction of new immigration rules to improve efforts to tackle child abduction in South Africa has been delayed, with the regulations now expected to come into force in June next year.

Originally expected to be in force from October 1st, the rules would mean families need to take full birth certificates for any under-18s travelling with them. In the event that a child is travelling with one parent only, additional supporting evidence will be required.

The latter may come in the form of a court order highlighting that the parent travelling has consent to take the child abroad. An affidavit signed by the other parent, specifying international travel to South Africa will also suffice or, where applicable, a copy of the death certificate of the other parent.

The regulations are being introduced as part of new measures to tackle both child abduction and the trafficking of young people.

News of the delay has come after the Daily Mail reported earlier in the year that border officials in Britain are increasingly questioning parents if passport systems fail to recognise that their children may have an alternative surname or there are concerns regarding the child’s legal guardian.

Expert Opinion

South Africa is clearly taken a bold and tough stance on this issue and while many may see the new regulations as overzealous, many others will welcome the concerted effort to tackle the issue of child abduction and trafficking. <br/> <br/>"This is an incredibly emotive matter and we are contacted very often by parents who are concerned when their child has not been brought back from a holiday. Many people simply do not release that it is a criminal offence to take a child overseas without the proper consent. <br/> <br/>"The best interests of the child or children involved should always come first and we would urge parents to consider the consequences and harm they could cause by uprooting children and changing their living arrangements abruptly. <br/> <br/>"In terms of Europe, legislation is in place related to where children should live which covers most countries, while regulations exist for Hague Convention countries to help locate children who have been wrongfully taken by a parent or another party."