South African Passport Application Guide 2025

A Comprehensive Overview

Latest Update (2025)

The Department of Home Affairs has expanded services to 1,000 bank branches nationwide for passport applications and biometric capture. Processing times in South Africa are typically 7-21 working days, while applications abroad take 6-12 months due to centralized printing in Pretoria.

What Is a South African Passport?

A South African passport is an official travel document issued by the DHA, certifying your identity and nationality for international travel. As of January 2025, South African passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 104 countries, ranking 48th globally.

Types of Passports:

  • Regular Passport: 32 pages, valid 10 years for adults (16+), 5 years for children
  • Maxi Passport: 48 pages for frequent travelers
  • Official Passport: For government officials
  • Diplomatic Passport: For diplomats
  • Emergency Travel Certificate: For urgent travel needs

Eligibility

To apply, you must be a South African citizen:

  • Adults need a valid South African ID
  • Children require an unabridged birth certificate
  • First-time applicants turning 16 must also apply for an ID

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process

1. Gather Your Documents

For Adults (16+):

  • Valid South African ID
  • Completed DHA-73 form (signed with left thumbprint)
  • Completed DHA-529 form (Determination of Citizenship)
  • DHA-9 form for fingerprints
  • Four passport photos (unless biometric capture available)

For Children (under 16):

  • Unabridged birth certificate
  • DHA-73 form signed by both parents
  • Four passport photos

2. Choose Application Method

In-Person: At Home Affairs office or embassy

Online: Via eHomeAffairs (ehome.dha.gov.za) with biometrics at bank branches

3. Pay the Fees

Passport Type In South Africa (R) Abroad (R)
Regular/Adult 600 1,200
Child 600 1,200
Maxi 1,200 2,400

4. Submit and Wait

Processing times:

  • In South Africa: 7-21 working days
  • Abroad: 6-12 months

5. Collect Your Passport

Must be collected in person at the same location where you applied.

Recent Updates for 2025

Key Changes

  • Bank Branch Expansion: 1,000 branches now offer passport services
  • Digital Initiatives: Online applications via eHomeAffairs
  • Visa-Free Access: Now 104 countries (up from previous years)

Tips for Smooth Application

  • Apply 6-12 months before planned travel
  • Double-check all documents
  • Use online services where possible
  • Track your application status
  • Follow DHA updates at www.dha.gov.za

Final Thoughts

Applying for your South African passport in 2025 is manageable with proper preparation. Take advantage of digital services and bank branch locations for convenience. Safe travels with your “Green Mamba”!