Searching “how to apply for passport in South Africa,”or even “what to do if my passport is lost or stolen”? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a South African getting your very first passport, renewing an old one, or a foreigner living in South Africa needing the right travel papers, this guide covers everything you need to know about the passport application South Africa process, from forms and fees to biometrics, renewals, and what to do when your passport goes missing.
Disclaimer: The Department of Home Affairs holds the most current info on passport rules. Rules, fees or processes may change. Always check the DHA website or an official DHA office before starting.
How Many Types of Passports Are There?
Before applying, know your options. Some types include:
- Regular/Tourist passport (for adults 16+) valid for 10 years.
- Child passport (for under 16) with shorter validity.
- Maxi passport (48 pages) for frequent travellers. More pages = more visa room.
- Emergency Travel Certificate (for urgent return to SA if abroad).
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Passport in South Africa
Here are the steps to follow for a standard passport application (not lost or stolen).
| Step | What You Do |
| 1. Decide 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 Form DHA-73 | This is the main application form for passports / travel documents. (Department of Home Affairs) |
| 3. Gather documents needed for passport | See next section. |
| 4. Biometric capture | Photo, fingerprints, signature. Even if you apply partly online, you’ll need to go in person for this. (ehome.dha.gov.za) |
| 5. Pay prescribed fee | Varies depending on type of passport. Budget for R600 for many standard passports. (Western Cape Government) |
| 6. Wait for processing & collect | Usually 7-21 working days for standard passports. Times may vary. (Western Cape Government) |
Documents Needed for Passport Application
Here are the documents needed for passport when applying under “normal” circumstances:
- Fully completed DHA-73 form (passport application form).
- Valid South African ID document or birth certificate (if under 16).
- If you have your old passport, bring it. If not, there might be additional steps.
- Two colour passport photographs (or none if the office uses digital/bio photo capture). Confirm at your branch.
- If you’re under 18, parental or guardian consent. Both parents may need to be present unless exceptional.
- For foreigners residing here, proof of identity, residence permit or non-citizen ID, and sometimes determination of citizenship (if needed). (South Africa Portal)
How to apply for a passport if your previous passport was lost, stolen or damaged?
Oops. It happens. If your passport is lost or stolen, here’s what to do:
- Report it to the police immediately. You’ll need the case number or affidavit.
- Complete DHA-335 (loss of passport form) when applying for a replacement.
- Still use DHA-73 for the application. The process is similar, with added documentation (police report, affidavit).
- If abroad, contact the nearest SA embassy or consulate. They can issue an emergency travel certificate (ETC) to return home, then apply for a full replacement.
You might also like: Lost your passport abroad? Here’s what to do?
How to apply for a passport in South Africa For Foreigners Residing in SA
If you’re not a South African citizen but live here and want a passport (or travel document), or need to renew yours:
- Must show your foreign identity/residence permit/non-citizen ID. (South Africa Portal)
- May need DHA-529 to determine citizenship or status. (South Africa Portal)
- Other forms & proofs (passport of origin, if possible) may be required.
You might also like: Can I travel if my visa is expiring soon?
Online Application via eHomeAffairs
Yes, South Africa is going online. A lot (but not everything) can be started via eHomeAffairs:
- Register an account.
- Fill in application online (DHA-73 etc.).
- Pay the fee electronically.
- Attend in person for biometrics. You’ll still need to go to a DHA-enabled bank branch or Home Affairs office for photo, fingerprints etc.
Tips to Avoid Passport Hassles
- Don’t leave applying or renewing until the last minute. Processing takes time.
- Keep a copy (digital or physical) of your passport, ID, and relevant docs.
- Make sure your photos are correct size & spec. A wrong photo = extra trips.
- For lost/stolen, report immediately so identity theft or misuse doesn’t happen.
FAQs
How long does it take to process a passport in South Africa?
Typically 7-21 working days for standard passports. Times may vary depending on location, branch load, and if you have all required documents.
How much does a passport cost in South Africa?
Standard passports are about R600 for many adult tourist passports. Fees differ for maxi passports, minor passports, or special services. Check current fee with DHA.
Can I apply for a passport online?
Yes. The DHA offers eHomeAffairs for online submissions of passport applications and ID/passport renewals. But you’ll still visit to have biometrics captured.
What do I need if my passport is stolen?
You’ll need to:
- Report to the police and get a case number or affidavit.
- Complete form DHA-335 for loss of passport.
- Submit the regular application (DHA-73) plus stolen/lost passport documents.