HOW-TO

How to Apply for or Renew a South African Passport

A comprehensive guide to applying for or renewing a South African passport, detailing the online process, required documents, fees, and timelines.

Step by step

1. Confirm what you needDecide between a standard tourist passport and the thicker maxi tourist passport if you travel frequently. Both require a valid South African ID.
2. Register on eHomeAffairsCreate a profile at ehome.dha.gov.za using your ID number and complete the passport application form online.
3. Pay the fee onlinePay through the eHomeAffairs payment step and keep your reference or receipt. Fees differ for standard and maxi passports.
4. Book your branch or bank slotUse the Branch Appointment Booking System to reserve a time at a Home Affairs office or enabled bank branch.
5. Attend for biometricsGo in person with your ID so staff can capture your photograph, fingerprints and signature and verify your details.
6. Track your applicationFollow progress by SMS or online. Passport turnaround varies, so allow enough time before any travel.
7. Collect your passportReturn to the branch to collect when notified, or follow the collection instructions given at application.

How to Apply for or Renew a South African Passport: Navigating the process of obtaining or renewing a South African passport is essential for anyone planning international travel. Whether it’s your first passport or a renewal, the Department of Home Affairs provides a streamlined online system through eHomeAffairs to facilitate the application process.

Applying for or renewing a South African passport involves several key steps, including online registration, fee payment, and in-person biometrics. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you have all the necessary information to complete the process smoothly.

### What Are the Requirements for Applying for a South African Passport?

What Are the Requirements for Applying for a South African Passport?

To apply for or renew a South African passport, you need to meet specific requirements and provide certain documents. Whether it’s your first passport or a renewal, the process is streamlined through the eHomeAffairs portal, but certain in-person steps are mandatory.

First, you must have a valid South African ID. This can be a Smart ID card or a green ID book. This is a non-negotiable requirement for both new applications and renewals. You will need to register on the eHomeAffairs website (ehome.dha.gov.za) using your ID number to start the application process.

Once registered, you will complete the passport application form online. After completing the form, you will need to pay the applicable fee. The standard tourist passport fee is historically around R400, but there is also a maxi passport option available for frequent travelers, which costs more. Payment is made online through the eHomeAffairs payment portal, and you must keep your reference or receipt for future reference.

After payment, you must book an appointment at a Home Affairs office or an enabled bank branch using the Branch Appointment Booking System. This is where you will provide your biometrics, including your photograph, fingerprints, and signature. You must attend this appointment in person and bring your valid ID.

Here are the key requirements and documents you need to apply for or renew a South African passport:

• Valid South African ID (Smart ID card or green ID book)
• Completed passport application form (completed online)
• Proof of payment for the passport fee
• Appointment booking confirmation
• Presence in person for biometrics

For clarity, here is a table summarizing the key requirements and steps:

After your biometrics appointment, you can track your application via SMS or online. The passport turnaround time varies, so it’s advisable to apply well before any planned travel. Once your passport is ready, you will be notified to collect it from the branch where you completed your biometrics.

### How Do I Register on eHomeAffairs to Apply for a Passport?

How Do I Register on eHomeAffairs to Apply for a Passport?

To initiate the process of applying for or renewing a South African passport online, you must first register on the eHomeAffairs portal. This platform is the gateway to managing your passport application conveniently from your home or office. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the registration process:

1. Visit the eHomeAffairs website: Navigate to ehome.dha.gov.za using your preferred web browser.

2. Create a Profile: On the homepage, you will find an option to register as a new user. Click on this option and provide the necessary details, including your South African ID number. This ID is crucial as it links your application to your identity records.

3. Complete the Registration Form: Fill in the required fields with accurate information. This typically includes personal details such as your name, date of birth, and contact information. Ensure that all information matches your official identification documents to avoid any discrepancies.

Once you have successfully registered, you can proceed to apply for your passport. Here’s what you need to know about the application process:

• Choose Your Passport Type: Decide whether you need a standard tourist passport or the thicker maxi tourist passport if you travel frequently. Both require a valid South African ID.
• Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the passport application form online. Ensure all information is correct to prevent delays in processing.
• Make the Payment: Pay the applicable fee through the eHomeAffairs payment portal. The standard tourist passport fee is historically around R400, with a higher fee for the maxi option. Keep your payment reference or receipt for future reference.
• Book an Appointment: Use the Branch Appointment Booking System to reserve a time at a Home Affairs office or an enabled bank branch. This is where you will provide your biometrics.

Below is a summary of the key documents and fees you will need for your passport application:

After completing these steps, you will need to attend the appointment in person to provide your biometrics. This includes having your photograph taken, fingerprints captured, and signature recorded. Once your application is processed, you can track its progress via SMS or online. When your passport is ready, you will be notified to collect it from the branch where you completed your biometrics.

### What Is the Process for Paying the South African Passport Fee Online?

What Is the Process for Paying the South African Passport Fee Online?

To pay the South African passport fee online, you must first complete the initial application process through the eHomeAffairs portal at ehome.dha.gov.za. Once you have registered and filled out the necessary passport application form, you will be directed to the payment step. This is a crucial part of the process, as your application will not be processed until the fee is paid.

Here is a step-by-step guide to paying the fee online:

• Register and Apply: Create a profile on eHomeAffairs using your South African ID number and complete the passport application form.
• Select Passport Type: Choose between a standard tourist passport and a maxi tourist passport. The maxi option is for frequent travellers and costs more.
• Proceed to Payment: After submitting your application, you will be directed to the payment gateway. Here, you can select your preferred payment method, which may include credit/debit cards or other online payment options.
• Confirm Payment: Once the payment is processed, you will receive a payment reference or receipt. Keep this for your records as it may be required for future reference.

The fees for passports are subject to change. Historically, the standard tourist passport fee has been around R400, while the maxi passport fee is higher. For the most current fee information, it is advisable to check the eHomeAffairs website or contact the Department of Home Affairs directly.

After completing the payment, you will need to book an appointment at a Home Affairs office or an enabled bank branch for biometrics. This step is essential as it involves capturing your photograph, fingerprints, and signature. The table below outlines the key steps and requirements for the online payment process:

By following these steps, you can successfully pay the South African passport fee online and proceed to the next stage of the application process.

### How Do I Book a Biometrics Appointment for My Passport Application?

How Do I Book a Biometrics Appointment for My Passport Application?

Once you have completed the online application for your South African passport through the eHomeAffairs portal, the next crucial step is to book a biometrics appointment. This appointment is essential as it involves capturing your photograph, fingerprints, and signature, which are required for processing your passport.

To book your biometrics appointment, follow these steps:

1. Visit the eHomeAffairs website at ehome.dha.gov.za.
2. Log in to your profile using your ID number and the password you created during the application process.
3. Navigate to the “Book Branch Appointment” section.
4. Select the Home Affairs office or enabled bank branch where you wish to have your biometrics taken. It is advisable to choose a location that is convenient for you to ensure a smooth process.
5. Choose a suitable date and time for your appointment. Availability may vary, so it is recommended to book as early as possible.
6. Confirm your appointment and make a note of the reference number provided. This number will be useful for any future inquiries or changes to your appointment.

It is important to attend your biometrics appointment in person. Ensure you bring the following documents with you:

• A valid South African ID (Smart ID or green ID book).
• Your online application reference number.
• Proof of payment for the passport fee.

For your convenience, here is a summary of the key details regarding the passport application process:

After your biometrics appointment, you can track the progress of your application via SMS or online. Once your passport is ready, you will be notified to collect it from the branch where you had your biometrics taken.

### What Documents Do I Need to Bring to the Biometrics Appointment?

What Documents Do I Need to Bring to the Biometrics Appointment?

When applying for or renewing a South African passport, attending a biometrics appointment is a crucial step. This is where your photograph, fingerprints, and signature will be captured, and your details verified. To ensure a smooth process, You should bring the correct documents with you.

First and foremost, you must have a valid South African ID. This can be either a Smart ID card or a green ID book. Without a valid ID, you will not be able to proceed with your passport application or renewal. If you are applying for your first passport, your birth certificate may also be required as proof of citizenship.

In addition to your ID, you should bring the following documents to your biometrics appointment:

• A printed copy of your online application receipt or reference number. This is proof that you have completed the online application and paid the necessary fee.
• Any previous passports, especially if you are applying for a renewal. This helps verify your identity and travel history.
• Proof of residence, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, if your address has changed since your last passport was issued.
• If you are a minor, you will need to provide additional documents, including your unabridged birth certificate and consent from both parents or legal guardians.

The standard tourist passport fee is historically around R400, while a maxi passport for frequent travellers may incur a higher fee. Fees can be paid online through the eHomeAffairs portal, and you should keep your receipt or reference number as proof of payment.

To help you prepare for your biometrics appointment, here is a summary of the required documents:

By ensuring you have all the necessary documents, you can avoid delays and complete your passport application or renewal efficiently. Remember to book your biometrics appointment through the Branch Appointment Booking System and arrive on time with all your documents.

### How Long Does It Take to Process a South African Passport Application?

How Long Does It Take to Process a South African Passport Application?

Applying for or renewing a South African passport involves several steps, and understanding the processing timeline is crucial for planning your travel. The Department of Home Affairs aims to process passport applications efficiently, but the exact duration can vary based on several factors.

Once you have completed the online application through eHomeAffairs and paid the relevant fee, you will need to visit a Home Affairs office or an enabled bank branch for biometrics. This is a mandatory step, as your photograph, fingerprints, and signature must be captured in person. After this, the processing of your application begins.

The standard processing time for a South African passport is typically around 4 to 6 weeks. However, this can fluctuate depending on the volume of applications and other external factors. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel to avoid any last-minute issues. If you need your passport urgently, the Department of Home Affairs offers an expedited service, but this usually incurs additional fees and may still take up to 3 weeks.

To ensure a smooth process, here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Online Application: Complete the application form and pay the fee through the eHomeAffairs portal.
• Biometrics Appointment: Book an appointment at a Home Affairs office or enabled bank branch for biometrics.
• Documents: Bring your valid Smart ID or green ID book to the biometrics appointment.
• Tracking: Use the tracking service provided by eHomeAffairs to monitor the status of your application.
• Collection: Once your passport is ready, you will be notified to collect it from the branch where you completed your biometrics.

For those who travel frequently and require a maxi tourist passport, the process is the same, but the fees and some requirements may differ. Below is a table summarizing the key details:

By following these steps and being aware of the processing times, you can ensure a hassle-free experience when applying for or renewing your South African passport.

### What Is the Difference Between a Standard and Maxi Passport?

What Is the Difference Between a Standard and Maxi Passport?

When applying for or renewing a South African passport, you have the option to choose between a standard tourist passport and a maxi tourist passport. Understanding the differences between these two types is crucial for making an informed decision based on your travel needs.

The standard tourist passport is the most common type issued by the Department of Home Affairs. It is suitable for most travellers and is valid for up to 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors. This passport is ideal for those who travel occasionally and do not require additional pages for visas or entry stamps. The standard passport is also more cost-effective, with fees historically around R400.

In contrast, the maxi tourist passport is designed for frequent travellers who need more space for visas and entry stamps. This passport has additional pages, making it thicker than the standard version. While it offers more convenience for those who travel often, it also comes with a higher fee. The maxi passport is particularly useful for business travellers or individuals who frequently visit countries that require multiple visas.

Here are the key differences between the two passport types:

• Number of Pages: The standard passport has fewer pages, while the maxi passport offers more pages for visas and stamps.
• Cost: The maxi passport is more expensive than the standard passport due to the additional pages.
• Travel Frequency: The standard passport is suitable for occasional travellers, whereas the maxi passport is better for frequent travellers.

To help you decide which passport is right for you, consider the following comparison:

When applying through eHomeAffairs, you will be prompted to select your preferred passport type. Ensure you choose the one that best suits your travel habits and requirements. Remember, both types require you to complete the application process in person at a Home Affairs office or an enabled bank branch.

CluedUp is an independent guide and is not affiliated with any government agency. Fees, links and steps can change — always confirm on the official portal before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.