Last week we looked at the issue of Home Affairs no longer putting permanent residence stamps in SA passports - and how those affected can be sure of getting back into the country when they travel. While our advice erred on the side of extreme caution - ie to carry your original certificate of permanent residence as proof - we had several letters from readers, sharing their experience.
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Barry Lane writes: I am a permanent resident and have been travelling frequently for the past two years without the stamp in my passport.
I have had no problem leaving and re-entering SA, or checking into a flight in a foreign country with SA as my destination.
I made a copy of my permanent resident visa, which I carry with me. I also carry my expired passport with the stamp.
When departing and re-entering SA, I give my SA ID book, together with my passport. I also do the same when checking in at a foreign airport and tell them that I live in SA. I have never had to show my PR visa or old passport.
A year or so ago, they recorded my fingerprints and photo on the bio system at immigration as I entered SA. This now automatically confirms my details and my passport is stamped without any questions.
Janette Marks writes: I have only once, about 40 years ago, had my permit stamped in my passport. I often travelled overseas and only once have I been asked for proof of residence in SA when checking in overseas. I produced my SA ID book, which was enough.
Interestingly, two years ago while going through SA customs control to travel overseas, I was asked how long I had been in SA. "Forty-seven years!" I said. The woman had been looking for my visitor's visa, and was puzzled until I produced my SA ID.
Steve Ashforth writes: I am a permanent resident and travel overseas all the time. All a permanent resident needs produce is his/her ID document. Normally even a copy will suffice.
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