Travelling with minors - the ins and outs
Different immigration regulations for children
The question as to which regulations apply to minors who travel to and from Namibia remains a contentious issue.While some officials are sometimes less strict, the fact remains that Namibian authorities apply travel instructions involving minors as issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security.
The aim is to prevent kidnappings and child trafficking.
If you are travelling with children under 18 years old, you should carry the following with you in addition to your passport:
1. The original unabridged/complete birth certificate. In general, a copy sworn by the police is also accepted in Namibia.
2. Adults travelling with children who are not their biological children are advised to provide an affidavit from the child's parents stating that the child is travelling internationally with parental consent, whether with only one parent or with another adult (e.g. a grandparent, aunt, uncle, etc.). Such permission must be accompanied by copies of the identity cards or passports of the child's parents or legal guardian, as well as the contact details of these persons.
3. If a child travels with only one parent, the other parent must give their consent for the said trip.
4. Should this be the case, a death certificate from the other parent listed on the child's birth certificate may need to be provided.
5. Every unaccompanied minor must have the written consent of one or both parents or of his or both parents or legal guardian. There must also be a letter from the person who will receive the child at the destination (stating the home address and contact details of the child's whereabouts). In both cases, parents and guardians as well as recipients, copies of ID cards or passports as well as contact details must be enclosed.
The first requirement in particular is often met with some resistance, especially since the children are or were registered on the mother's passport as an infant. To avoid unnecessary difficulties with the entries, the ministry recommends contacting the relevant authority in advance.
After the numbers and contact details on the website were out of date, media spokeswoman Margaret Kalo confirmed on Friday that travellers are welcome to contact her themselves at 081 122 6797 or by email at Margaret. [email protected]. The office can also be reached at 081 951 0064/65.