South African Passport Guide (2025)
The South African passport, issued by the Department of Home Affairs, is a travel document for citizens, available in various types. Applications require in-person submission, with online booking options, and temporary passports are no longer issued as of 2025.
Table of Contents
Overview
The South African passport is a travel document issued to citizens for international travel, certifying identity and nationality. Managed by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), it comes in various types based on applicant needs. As of 2025, temporary passports are discontinued, and applications require in-person submission with optional online booking. Passports must be valid for at least 30 days post-travel and have two blank visa pages. Using a foreign passport to enter/exit South Africa (if 18 or older) is an offense under the South African Citizenship Act. For details, visit www.dha.gov.za.
Passport Types
| Type | Description | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Passport | Standard for general travel; 32-page (regular) or 48-page (maxi for frequent travelers). | 10 years (adults 16+), 5 years (children under 16). |
| Official Passport | For government officials on duty. | 5 years. |
| Diplomatic Passport | Handled by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). | 5 years. |
| Document for Travel Purposes | For permanent residents unable to obtain a passport from their country of origin. | 5 years. |
| Crew Member Certificate | For crew of South African-registered airlines. | Varies. |
Eligibility
- South African citizen with a valid ID (ID book, Smart ID Card, or birth certificate for children).
- Children under 18 require parental consent.
- Permanent residents (non-citizens) may apply for a Document for Travel Purposes if unable to obtain a passport from their home country.
Application Requirements
Requirements vary slightly by passport type, whether first-time, renewal (treated as new), or for children. General requirements include:
- Completed Form DHA-73 (passport application) and DHA-529 (determination of citizenship, if abroad).
- Original and copy of South African ID or birth certificate (for children).
- Two identical color photographs (35mm x 45mm; not required at offices with digital capture).
- Proof of citizenship (e.g., old passport, birth certificate).
- For children: Both parents must be present and sign; death certificates if a parent is deceased; court orders for guardianship disputes.
- For lost/stolen/damaged passports: Police report and double fees if due to negligence.
- Abroad: Include proof of address and email on the form.
How to Apply
- Book an Appointment: Use the DHA online portal (eHome Affairs) or VFS Global for premium services.
- Submit In Person: At a DHA office in South Africa or a South African embassy/consulate abroad with originals and copies of documents.
- Biometrics: Fingerprints and photos are taken (digital at modern offices).
- Pay Fees: At the time of application.
- Collection: Receive a temporary license; collect the passport when ready.
Processing Times:
- In South Africa: 2-4 weeks (express: 2 days for emergencies).
- Abroad: 4-6 months.
Fees
Fees vary by passport type and location; confirm with DHA. Approximate fees for 2025:
| Passport Type | Fee (Rands) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Passport (32 pages) | R600-R800 | Adult tourist passport. |
| Maxi Passport (48 pages) | R1,200 | For frequent travelers. |
| Child Passport | R600 | Lower rates for minors. |
| Official/Diplomatic Passport | No fee | For qualifying officials. |
| Lost/Damaged Passport | Double fees | If due to negligence. |
Special Cases
- Children: Must apply in person with both parents. First adult passport at 16 requires prior ID application.
- Renewals: Treated as new applications; no separate renewal process.
- Emergencies: Apply for an Emergency Travel Certificate (valid for specific trips; acceptance varies by country).
- Abroad: Processing takes longer; VFS Global may handle collections.
Resources
For the most up-to-date information, visit the Department of Home Affairs or contact a local office/embassy. Related service: South African Smart ID Card.