The South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has issued an urgent clarification refuting widespread social media reports and "unfounded" media claims that citizens of Lesotho are no longer required to present valid passports when entering South Africa. The government warned that these rumors are not only false but are causing significant operational disruptions at the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg border posts.
The confusion reportedly stemmed from a misinterpretation of ongoing high-level SADC discussions regarding regional integration. While South Africa is exploring ways to ease transit for daily commuters from the mountain kingdom—which is entirely landlocked by South Africa—no formal policy change has been enacted. The DHA emphasized that the "Lesotho Special Permit" (LSP) and traditional passport requirements remain the only legal avenues for entry into the Republic.
Since the rumors began circulating on Tuesday, border officials have reported an influx of Lesotho nationals attempting to cross using only their national identity documents. This has led to long queues and heightened tension, as frustrated travelers are turned back by the Border Management Authority (BMA). In some instances, the congestion has delayed the transit of essential goods, including medical supplies and textiles, which are critical to Lesotho’s export-driven economy.
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