How to Apply for a South African Passport

Applying for a South African passport is a structured process managed by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the application procedures, requirements, and essential considerations for South African citizens seeking to obtain a passport.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a South African passport, you must meet the following conditions:

  • Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
  • Identification: Applicants aged 16 and older must possess a valid South African identity document (ID). For children under 16, a birth certificate is required.

Types of Passports

The DHA issues various types of passports tailored to different needs:

  1. Standard Tourist Passport: Contains 32 pages and is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors.
  2. Maxi Tourist Passport: Designed for frequent travelers, this passport has 48 pages and the same validity as the standard passport.
  3. Child Passport: Issued to citizens aged 15 or younger, valid for 5 years.
  4. Official Passport: For government officials traveling on official business, valid for 5 years.
  5. Diplomatic Passport: Issued to diplomats and consuls for work-related travel.

Application Process

The application process can be completed either online or in person.

1. Online Application via eHomeAffairs Portal

The DHA offers an online platform to facilitate passport applications:

  • Registration: Visit the eHomeAffairs portal and create an account by providing your personal details.
  • Application Form: Complete the DHA-73 form accurately, ensuring all information matches your ID or birth certificate.
  • Documentation: Upload the necessary documents, including your ID or birth certificate.
  • Payment: Pay the applicable fee through the portal’s secure payment system.
  • Appointment Booking: Schedule an appointment at a participating bank branch or DHA office for biometric data capture.
  • Biometric Capture: Attend the appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph taken.

2. In-Person Application at DHA Offices

If you prefer to apply in person:

  • Visit a DHA Office: Go to your nearest DHA office.
  • Obtain the DHA-73 Form: Collect and complete the application form available at the office.
  • Submit Documentation: Provide your ID or birth certificate, along with any other required documents.
  • Biometric Capture: Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken on-site.
  • Payment: Pay the application fee at the office.

Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents when applying:

  • Completed DHA-73 Form: Accurately filled out.
  • Identification: Valid South African ID for adults; birth certificate for minors.
  • Parental Consent for Minors: Both parents or legal guardians must provide written consent. If only one parent is available, proof of guardianship or a court order is necessary.
  • Proof of Payment: Receipt confirming payment of the application fee.

Application Fees

Fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to verify the current rates on the official DHA website. As of the latest update:

  • Standard Passport: R400
  • Maxi Passport: R600

Processing Time

The standard processing time for a South African passport is approximately 10 working days from the date of application. However, this may vary depending on the volume of applications received by the DHA.

Collection of Passport

Once your passport is ready, you will receive a notification via SMS or email. You can collect it at the DHA office or bank branch where you applied. You must present your ID and the receipt upon collection.

Important Considerations

  • Validity: Passports are valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors. They cannot be renewed; once expired, a new application is required.
  • Dual Citizenship: South African citizens aged 18 or older must enter and exit South Africa using a valid South African passport. Using a foreign passport for this purpose is a punishable offense under Section 26(B) of the South African Citizenship Act.
  • Emergency Travel: If you need to travel urgently and do not have a valid passport, you can apply for an emergency travel document. Note that some countries do not accept emergency travel documents, so verify this with the relevant authorities before applying.
  • Frequent Travelers: If you travel often, consider applying for a maxi passport with 48 pages to accommodate additional visa stamps.
  • Parental Presence for Minors: When applying for a passport for a child under 16, both parents and the child must be present. If one parent cannot attend, a letter of consent and a copy of their ID will no longer be accepted; both parents must be present.

By following these guidelines and ensuring all requirements are met, South African citizens can successfully apply for a passport, facilitating international travel and identification.