Hi everyone,

I've got an upcoming hunt in Namibia and I'll be transiting through Johannesburg. In theory, I'm only there for a couple of hours in each direction. My luggage and firearms are checked through to the final destination each way.

Do I need a SA firearms transit permit? If so, what are the steps to obtain one? Does it make sense to obtain a letter of invitation from a Namibia outfitter?

If all of this has been discussed in a previous thread, could you point me in the right direction. I'm excited about the trip and I'd really like things to go as smoothly as possible.

Thanks

Last October I transited thru Joberg enroute to Harare. SAA the entire way, bags (and rifles) checked all the way through.

I did not need a SAPS 520. The key is luggage checked thru on a single (SAA) airlines.

Easy, no issues AND... my flight out of Dulles was delayed, I missed my connecting flight to Harare, spent the night at Afton, checked in next day and landed in Harare with my bag and guncase. I did not pick up my luggage - it remained in transit..

No issues, very easy.. Now I admit I was a bit worried if my bag and gun would make it until I finished my 4th cold Castle :-)

I had verfied with SAA that I would not need SAPS 520 - that bags would be checked thru...

I did that exact trip last month. No transit permit is required.

Definitely make sure you don't have to recheck luggage at JNB...

And I would have that invitation letter from your Namibian outfitter handy, as you may need it in Windhoek when you get your permit there at the airport. I've been asked for it once there, but not the other time. I'd have my Namibian gun permit form filled out beforehand too.