What Is A Travel Ban?
A travel ban is an immigration restriction that prevents certain people from entering a country. In South Africa’s case, this means anyone who has been issued with a ‘banning order’ may be refused entry into the country for any length of time. This could be due to reasons such as security concerns or criminal activity, among other things.
Who Can Issue A Travel Ban?
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is the authority responsible for issuing banning orders in South Africa, based on their assessment of whether someone poses a risk to national safety and security. The decision can also be made by the Minister of Home Affairs if they deem it necessary and appropriate in specific cases.
How Long Does A Ban Last?
Banning orders typically last for three years but can sometimes extend to five years or more depending on individual circumstances and the severity of the situation at hand. If you have received a banning order, it is important to check its duration before attempting to travel back into South Africa during this period.
Can You Lift Your Travel Ban?
Yes – although there are no guarantees that your application will be successful, you may apply to have your travel ban lifted so that you can enter South Africa again without encountering any issues at immigration control upon arrival at your destination airport or port-of-entry.
Applying To Lift The Ban
In order to apply for lifting your travel ban, you must first obtain a copy of your banning notice from DHA which contains details about why they decided against granting you permission to enter South Africa previously and what measures were put in place as part of their decision making process (e.g., background checks). Next, gather all relevant documents such as police clearance certificates/court papers related specifically towards resolving matters associated with why the initial ban was imposed upon you in addition to character references/testimonials from reputable sources testifying toward good behaviour since then etc… Then submit these documents along with an application letter requesting permission for re-admission into SA addressed directly towards DHA via registered post where possible – including payment receipts confirming fees paid upfront if required together with contact information allowing them easy access should they need further clarification regarding anything provided within your submission package etc…. Finally wait up until official communication arrives – either via email/postal address specified within submission material itself notifying whether request accepted/rejected accordingly..