How to Apply for a South African Passport in 2026
Planning to travel outside South Africa in 2026?
If you need a South African passport, the Department of Home Affairs provides passport application services through its offices and the official eHomeAffairs system for eligible applicants.
A passport is an important travel document, so applicants should make sure their information and supporting documents are correct before applying.
Who Can Apply for a South African Passport?
South African citizens can apply for a South African passport.
The exact documents and process can depend on your circumstances, including whether you are applying for your first passport, renewing an existing passport, or applying for a passport for a child.
How to Apply for a South African Passport Online
Eligible applicants can start the process through the official eHomeAffairs website.
Step 1: Visit eHomeAffairs
Go to the official Department of Home Affairs online service:
👉 https://ehome.dha.gov.za/eHomeAffairsV3/
Always check that you are using the official government website before entering personal information.
Step 2: Register or Log In
If you do not already have an eHomeAffairs profile, follow the registration instructions.
You may need to provide personal information and verify your cellphone number and email address.
Step 3: Select the Passport Service
After logging in, follow the available instructions for applying for a passport.
Enter your information carefully and make sure it matches your official records.
Step 4: Complete the Application
Provide the information requested by Home Affairs.
Depending on your application, you may need to provide information about your identity, citizenship and other relevant details.
Step 5: Make the Required Payment
Where a passport fee applies, follow the official payment instructions provided through the Home Affairs process.
Do not send money to individuals who claim they can arrange a passport for you.
Step 6: Complete the Biometric Process
A passport application requires biometric information such as your photograph and fingerprints.
Follow the instructions provided by Home Affairs regarding where and when you need to complete this part of the process.
Depending on the service available to you, you may be able to use a participating Home Affairs-enabled bank branch or a Home Affairs office.
What Documents Do You Need?
The documents required can depend on your circumstances.
Applicants should check the official Home Affairs requirements before visiting a branch.
You may need documents such as:
- South African identity document
- Birth certificate, where applicable
- Existing passport, if renewing
- Supporting documents for specific applications
- Documents relating to a child application, where applicable
Do not rely on an old checklist without checking the latest official requirements.
Applying for a Child’s Passport
Parents or legal guardians can apply for passports for children, but additional requirements may apply.
The required documents and consent arrangements can differ depending on the child’s circumstances.
Check the official Home Affairs instructions before submitting a child’s application.
How Much Does a South African Passport Cost?
Passport fees can vary depending on the type of passport and application.
Because government fees can change, applicants should confirm the current fee directly with the Department of Home Affairs before making payment.
Official Home Affairs information:
👉 https://www.dha.gov.za/
How Long Does a Passport Take?
Processing times can vary depending on the application and Home Affairs processing conditions.
Do not book international travel based on an assumed processing time.
If you are travelling soon, apply as early as possible and check the latest Home Affairs information regarding passport processing.
How to Check Your Passport Application
Use the official Home Affairs channels to check the progress of your application.
Keep your application information and any reference details provided during the process.
Important Passport Application Tips
Before applying:
✅ Check your documents
✅ Make sure your personal information is correct
✅ Use the official Home Affairs website
✅ Keep your cellphone number and email active
✅ Follow the biometric instructions
✅ Confirm the current passport fee
✅ Apply well before your planned travel date
✅ Keep your application/reference information safe
Beware of Passport Scams
🚨 Never pay someone who promises to guarantee a passport or bypass Home Affairs procedures.
Do not give strangers your:
❌ Banking PIN
❌ Banking password
❌ OTP
❌ eHomeAffairs password
Use official Department of Home Affairs channels for your application.
Official South African Passport Application Website
Start by checking the official eHomeAffairs service:
👉 https://ehome.dha.gov.za/eHomeAffairsV3/
For general Department of Home Affairs information:
👉 https://www.dha.gov.za/
Find More Government Information on Gov24
Gov24 shares useful information about South African government services, jobs, grants, learnerships and other opportunities.
👉 Visit Gov24:
https://www.gov24.co.za/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a South African passport online?
Eligible applicants can start passport applications through the official eHomeAffairs platform. A biometric process is still required. Check the official instructions for your application.
Do I need an ID to apply for a passport?
Your identity and citizenship documents form part of the application requirements. Check the latest official Home Affairs requirements for your circumstances.
Can I apply for a child’s passport?
Yes, parents or legal guardians can apply for children’s passports, subject to the applicable Home Affairs requirements and consent procedures.
How much does a passport cost?
The fee depends on the passport service. Always confirm the current official fee with Home Affairs before making payment.
How long does it take to get a passport?
Processing times can vary. Apply well in advance of your planned travel and follow the latest Home Affairs guidance.
Where do I apply?
You can start through the official eHomeAffairs website:
✈️ Planning to Travel?
Don’t wait until the last minute to check your passport.
Prepare your documents, use official Home Affairs channels and apply well before your planned trip.
👉 Official eHomeAffairs:
https://ehome.dha.gov.za/eHomeAffairsV3/
👉 More government information:
https://www.gov24.co.za/