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Mutsawashe Mashandure
Herald Correspondent
Temporary travel documents are now valid for just one month and for a single entry into the country where the citizen is making the emergency visit, the Civil Registry Department of Zimbabwe has announced.
The department said with passports now readily available without production delays, temporary documents are only needed in special emergencies.
It announced the change came into effect on November 14.
Temporary travel documents had become more popular when there were delays in processing passports and were often needed for routine travel, but the situation has since improved.
TTDs now just serve as a temporary solution for citizens who need to travel urgently, but do not have the time or resources to apply for a passport.
“TTDs offer a temporary window, allowing individuals to travel, while awaiting the processing and issue of their passports,” read the statement.
The department encouraged members of the public to apply for passports on time to ensure a smooth travel experience.
“We urge citizens to plan and apply for passports well in advance of their travel dates to avoid any inconvenience.”
The revised validity period for TTDs is expected to streamline the application process and reduce the risk of fraudulent activities, said the department.
The department stressed that they remained committed to caring for vital civil registration events and travel documents.
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