Apply for a Passport or Travel Document
You need a passport if you want to travel abroad. A passport is a document issued by the Department of Home Affairs for international travel and certifies the identity and nationality of the holder.
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Online Booking & Participating Offices
The Department of Home Affairs has launched an online booking system for some offices. For a list of offices, visit http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/notices/1557-branch-appointment-booking-system-babs-available-offices. To book an appointment, go to https://services.dha.gov.za/#/authenticate/identity.
General Information
A passport is a document issued by a national government for international travel and certifies the identity and nationality of the holder. You must have a South African identity document to apply for a passport, or if you are a child, a birth certificate.
In terms of section 26(B) of the South African Citizenship Act, 1995, it is a punishable offence for a South African citizen of 18 years and older to leave or enter South Africa on a foreign passport.
Applications must be submitted in person because the passport officer must verify your identity, photograph, and take fingerprints (for applicants 16+). All documents must be completed in black ink. Husband, wife, and children must complete separate forms.
A regular tourist passport has 32 pages; frequent travelers can opt for a maxi passport with 48 pages. Passports cannot be renewed—once expired, a new application is required.
Tourist Passport (16 Years and Older)
Valid for 10 years. Not renewable—new application required upon expiry.
Required Documents:
- Completed Form DHA-73
- Original ID and copy (or birth certificate if under 16)
- If under 18: Parental consent (see under-16 section)
- Form DHA-529 (if applying abroad)
- Existing valid passport or lost passport report (DHA-335) + police confirmation
- Two color photos (35mm x 45mm) – not needed at smartcard offices
- Prescribed fee
Maxi Tourist Passport (48 Pages)
For frequent travelers. Same validity and requirements as regular tourist passport, but with 48 pages for more visas.
Tourist Passport (Under 16 Years)
Valid for 5 years. Both parents and child must be present unless exceptions apply.
Required Documents:
- Completed Form DHA-73 (signed by both parents)
- Child’s birth certificate and copy
- Both parents present (or death certificate/court order if not)
- Two color photos (not needed at smartcard offices)
- Prescribed fee
If one parent cannot attend, a letter of consent and ID copy is no longer accepted. Court intervention required for disputes.
Official Passport
For government officials on duty. Valid for 5 years.
Required Documents:
- Completed Form DHA-73
- Original ID and copy
- Letter from head of institution confirming employment and official trip
- Two color photos (not needed at smartcard offices)
- Existing official passport or lost report (DHA-335)
- Signed undertaking to use only for official trips
Diplomatic Passport
Administered by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). Contact their Protocol Section.
Document for Travel Purposes
For permanent residents unable to get a passport from their home country. Valid for 5 years.
Required Documents:
- Completed Form DHA-73
- Written confirmation from country of origin (except refugees)
- Permanent residence permit and copy
- SA non-citizen ID and copy
- Two color photos (not needed at smartcard offices)
- Prescribed fee
Crew Member Certificate
For crew of South African-registered airlines.
Required Documents:
- Completed Form DHA-73
- Original SA ID and copy
- Two color photos (not needed at smartcard offices)
- Official letter from airline confirming employment
Emergency Travel Certificate
For urgent travel when no valid passport. Not accepted by all countries—verify with destination.
Lost/stolen/damaged passports due to negligence incur double fees.