Searching” how to apply for passport in South Africa, “or perhaps”what to do if my passport is lost or taken “? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a South African getting your really first passport, renewing an old one, or an immigrant living in South Africa needing the best travel documents, this guide covers whatever you require to know about the passport application South Africa process, from kinds and costs to biometrics, renewals, and what to do when your passport goes missing out on. Disclaimer: The Department of Home Affairs holds the most present information on passport rules. Guidelines, costs or processes might change. Always check the DHA site or a main DHA workplace before starting.
The Number Of Types of Passports Are There? Before using, know your options. Some types include:
- Regular/Tourist passport (for adults 16+) valid for 10 years.
- Kid passport (for under 16) with shorter validity.
- Maxi passport (48 pages) for frequent travellers. More pages = more visa space.
- Emergency Travel Certificate (for immediate return to SA if abroad).
Step-by-Step: How to Look for Passport in South Africa
Here are the steps to follow for a standard passport application (not lost or stolen).
| Action | What You Do |
| 1. Choose where & how to apply | You can apply at a DHA office in your province, or use eHomeAffairs, DHA’s online portal. (ehome.dha.gov.za) |
| 2. Complete Type DHA-73 | This is the main application for passports/ travel documents. (Department of Home Affairs) |
| 3. Gather files required for passport | See next section.4. |
| Biometric capture | Picture, fingerprints, signature. Even if you use partly online, you’ll need to enter individual for this. (ehome.dha.gov.za) |
| 5. Pay prescribed fee | Differs depending upon type of passport. Spending plan for R600 for lots of basic passports. (Western Cape Federal Government) |
| 6. Await processing & collect | Generally 7-21 working days for basic passports. Times might differ. (Western Cape Federal Government) |
Files Required for Passport Application
Here are the files needed for passport when using under “normal” circumstances:
- Totally completed DHA-73 form (passport application form).
- Valid South African ID file or birth certificate (if under 16).
- If you have your old passport, bring it. If not, there might be extra actions.
- Two colour passport photographs (or none if the workplace utilizes digital/bio picture capture). Verify at your branch.
- If you’re under 18, adult or guardian approval. Both moms and dads may need to be present unless extraordinary.
- For foreigners residing here, proof of identity, home authorization or non-citizen ID, and sometimes determination of citizenship (if required). (South Africa Website)
How to request a passport if your previous passport was lost, stolen or damaged?
Oops. It takes place. If your passport is lost or taken, here’s what to do:
- Report it to the police instantly. You’ll require the case number or affidavit.
- Complete DHA-335 (loss of passport type) when looking for a replacement.
- Still utilize DHA-73 for the application. The process is comparable, with included documents (authorities report, affidavit).
- If abroad, contact the nearest SA embassy or consulate. They can release an emergency travel certificate (ETC) to return home, then get a complete replacement.
You might also like: Lost your passport abroad? Here’s what to do?
How to obtain a passport in South Africa For Foreigners Living in SA If you’re not a South African person but live here and want a passport (or take a trip document), or need to restore yours:
- Should reveal your foreign identity/residence permit/non-citizen ID. (South Africa Portal)
- May need DHA-529 to determine citizenship or status. (South Africa Website)
- Other forms & evidence (passport of origin, if possible) may be needed.
You might likewise like: Can I travel if my visa is ending quickly?
Online Application by means of eHomeAffairs
Yes, South Africa is browsing the web. A lot (however not whatever) can be begun by means of eHomeAffairs:
- Register an account.
- Fill out application online (DHA-73 etc.).
- Pay the charge electronically.
- Attend personally for biometrics. You’ll still need to go to a DHA-enabled bank branch or Home Affairs workplace for picture, fingerprints and so on.
Tips to Avoid Passport Troubles
- Don’t leave applying or renewing until the eleventh hour. Processing requires time.
- Keep a copy (digital or physical) of your passport, ID, and pertinent docs.
- Make sure your photos are correct size & spec. A wrong picture = extra trips.
- For lost/stolen, report immediately so identity theft or abuse doesn’t happen.
FAQs
The length of time does it take to process a passport in South Africa?
Normally 7-21 working days for basic passports. Times may differ depending upon area, branch load, and if you have all needed documents.
Just how much does a passport expense in South Africa?
Standard passports have to do with R600 for lots of adult traveler passports. Charges differ for maxi passports, small passports, or special services. Check present fee with DHA.
Can I request a passport online?
Yes. The DHA uses eHomeAffairs for online submissions of passport applications and ID/passport renewals. But you’ll still visit to have actually biometrics captured.
What do I need if my passport is stolen?
You’ll need to:
- Report to the authorities and get a case number or affidavit.
- Complete kind DHA-335 for loss of passport.
- Submit the regular application (DHA-73) plus stolen/lost passport files.