News Articles

Home Affairs streamlining travel between Lesotho and SA

Source: ENCA, 22/09/2015


JOHANNESBURG - Travelling between South Africa and Lesotho will soon
be easier for many Basotho.


At least that`s the idea from Home Affairs as it announced a special
permit, similar to the one issued to Zimbabwean nationals.


Basotho hoping to study and work in South Africa will have to register
for a permit the South African government says will be rolled out at
the beginning of 2016.


Through better use of technology, new measures by the South African
Department of Home Affairs seek to streamline the process of moving
between the two countries.


Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba said, "In this regard, scanning of
passports, instead of stamping, will be implemented in the short term.
This is the right step toward free movement and easing administrative
burdens."


Technology will also be used to keep out chancers and criminals hoping
to enter South Africa through Lesotho.


Basotho who are currently in South Africa illegally will be given time
to get their papers right.


They can hand in illegally obtained South African travel documents and
apply for the new permits.


During this period, there will be a delay in the deportation of people
back to Lesotho.


Pupils and students will only need to carry their passports and
acceptance letters from South African schools.


While the rest of the necessary documentation such as unabridged birth
certificates will be kept at their respective institutions of learning.


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