Subject: Firearm Permit Update & Travel Support – IPSC Handgun World Shoot XX
Dear Competitors,
On behalf of South Africa, the Match Director and the host, North West Practical Shooting Association, we extend our sincere apologies for the challenges and delays many of you have experienced regarding firearm permit approvals.
It is important to note that SAPSA became involved in this matter as soon as it came to our attention, the host had experienced complications with the processing of permits, following meetings with several high-ranking officers from the Central Firearms Registry (CFR). Unfortunately, multiple failures have occurred in the lead-up to this event, and we acknowledge the frustration this has caused.
We understand that many applications were submitted and remain unapproved. This delay appears to be primarily due to inefficiencies within the South African Police Service (SAPS). SAPSA has been advised by the host that they have done follow ups with the pertinent parties, however, it is acknowledged that problems were still experienced by our competitors unfortunately.
Since this issue was very recently brought to SAPSA’s attention via direct communication from competitors and social media, SAPSA have been actively engaging with both the Host and SAPS to assist in clearing the backlog. We are now working with the CFR on a daily basis, and as permits are approved, they are being dispatched to the host and/or competitors without delay.
Furthermore, we regret to inform you that the CFR has unexpectedly scheduled fumigation of their offices today (12-9-2025) together with a power outage in almost the whole of Pretoria where the SAPS head office sits, resulting in a complete halt of operations until Monday. This development places additional strain on an already pressured situation and may further delay permit processing — including those intended for issuance upon arrival.
Despite these setbacks, we have contingency measures in place to support you:
Contingency Options for Firearm Permit Processing (Not withstanding the fumigation)
- Permit Issuance on Arrival If your permit isn’t approved before travel, the application will be dealt with when you arrive in South Africa. This process has worked in the last week using private companies (at a cost) to facilitate these if you wish, and we hope that the status quo will remain as is. We are also collaborating with authorities and providing daily updates and confirmations to competitors. If your permit on arrival is not made available, a simple custody of the firearm will take place until the application is dealt with. This means you will be able to collect your firearm after the permit is approved. However, should you wish not to collect the firearms, the Match Director will arrange the collection of the firearms at no cost to the competitor in a bulk collection all within the confines of the South African law. Furthermore, there is no reason to worry about confiscation, however the firearm may be taken in for safe keeping. Please rest assured.
- Pre-Travel Letters (Only if Required by Airline)
Some airlines may require documentation before departure. In such cases, we can issue a letter confirming your participation, firearm details, and that your permit will be issued on arrival. This has worked via various airlines including Gulf airlines to a degree, written by the Regional Director confirming firearm details and personal identification of said shooter.
Please note the following conditions:
- This is a last-resort option, only for airlines that require it.
- Requests must be made within the confinements of your travel dates.
- Requests received outside this window will not be processed due to the high volume of inquiries.
If your airline requires this letter, please email us at [email protected] with the following details:
- Full Name
- Surname
- Passport Number
- Gun Make
- Gun Model
- Serial Number(s)
- Caliber
- Confirmed Travel Date
We will issue a personalized letter suitable for presentation to airline and customs officials. This letter is intended to support your journey, with the understanding that your official permit will handled.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to work through these challenges. Our team remains committed to ensuring a smooth and safe experience for all competitors.