As the festive travel season reached its peak, officials at the Tlokweng Border Post reported a significant increase in cross-border movement, particularly by families embarking on holiday shopping trips since December 13. However, this surge has highlighted a persistent problem: many parents are attempting to cross with children without the necessary documentation, according to Immigration administration officer Mr Emmanuel Lephirimile.

Mr Lephirimile emphasized that a minor's passport alone is insufficient for international travel. Current regulations mandate that any child under the age of 18 must possess a valid passport and an unabridged birth certificate. Furthermore, if a child is traveling with only one parent, an affidavit from the absent parent is required, along with a copy of their identity card (Omang), granting authorization for the journey. This requirement extends to relatives, such as uncles, traveling with a child; in such cases, affidavits from both parents are necessary to provide permission.

Officials observed that a considerable number of mothers and fathers arrived at the border unprepared, mistakenly believing that their physical presence or verbal confirmation of parenthood would suffice for immigration clearance. The documentation rules also apply to birth certificates that do not include a father's name. While the mother is recognized as the sole legal guardian in such instances, if the father intends to travel with the child alone, the mother must still furnish an affidavit authorizing the trip.

Beyond missing certificates, immigration officers are also contending with a rise in damaged or expired travel documents. Mr Lephirimile noted that common issues during the holiday rush included passports with broken pages, water-soaked covers, and those that had already expired. He stated, "We often see people reach the border only to realise their passport has already expired." While the department may occasionally consider the urgency of travel, they maintain stringent standards for individuals traveling beyond neighboring countries.

Mr Lephirimile reminded citizens that although High Commissions and Embassies can assist with certain travel documents, they are not typically a swift solution for a damaged passport discovered at the border. Travelers are strongly advised to inspect all their travel documents several weeks before their planned departure date to prevent being turned away at the border.