Step-by-step guide
Passport application: step-by-step
A practical checklist for preparing a South African passport application and following it through official channels.
Responsible authority: Department of Home Affairs.
Read official passport guidance ↗Your process timeline
Tick each step as you prepare. This is temporary browser state only.
0 of 6 steps complete
- 1
Identify the passport or travel document appropriate to your circumstances.
- 2
Check expiry rules, visa requirements and any destination-specific entry conditions before booking travel.
- 3
Use Home Affairs guidance to confirm which documents and existing identity records are needed.
- 4
Use the official Home Affairs channel and follow appointment instructions where applicable.
- 5
Complete identity capture and provide documents directly to the responsible authority.
- 6
Use the official reference and contact details for progress and collection information.