The South African government has recently announced new fees for passports and travel documents. As of August 2023, the fees payable for applications for a South African passport or travel document made within the Republic are as follows: Adult passport R600 for 32 pages, R1,200 for 48 pages (maxi), and Child passport R600. The fees payable for applications made outside of the Republic, at Missions, Embassies or Consulates, are higher. Adult passport R1,200 for 32 pages, R2,400 for 48 pages (maxi), and Child passport R1,200.
A passport is a document issued by a national government for international travel and it certifies the identity and nationality of the holder. According to the South African government, you must have a South African identity document to apply for a passport, or if you are a child, a birth certificate. The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for issuing travel documents in South Africa, and information on how to apply for a passport or other travel document is available on the Services section of their website in all South African official languages. You can also apply for a passport using the online service at ehome.dha.gov.za/echannel.
It is important to note that the cost of a passport or travel document can vary depending on the type of document you need and where you apply for it. If you are planning to travel abroad and require a passport or travel document, it is recommended that you check the latest fees and requirements with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that you have the correct documentation and that you are aware of any additional costs.
Cost of Passports in South Africa
South African passports are issued by the Department of Home Affairs. The cost of a passport depends on various factors, including the type of passport, the number of pages, and the urgency of the application.
Adult Passport Fee
As of August 2023, the fee for an adult passport with 32 pages is R600, while the fee for a 48-page passport is R1,200. These fees are applicable for applications made within the Republic of South Africa. The current fee for a 32-page passport is R400, while the fee for a 48-page passport is R800. Therefore, the new fees represent a significant increase in cost.
Child Passport Fee
The fee for a child passport is the same as that for an adult passport, which is R600. The child passport is valid for five years and is not renewable. The child passport is issued to children under the age of 16 and must be applied for by the child’s parents or legal guardian.
Diplomatic Passport Fee
The fee for a diplomatic passport is R600. Currently, there is no charge for an official passport or a diplomatic passport. The diplomatic passport is issued to South African diplomats and government officials who are traveling abroad on official business.
Emergency Passport Fee
If you need an emergency passport, you will have to pay an additional fee of R140. Emergency passports are issued to South African citizens who need to travel urgently but do not have a valid passport. The emergency passport is valid for a maximum of six months and cannot be extended.
Maxi Passport Fee
The fee for a maxi passport with 48 pages is R1,200. The maxi passport is ideal for frequent travelers who require more space for visas and entry and exit stamps. The maxi passport is valid for ten years and is not renewable.
In conclusion, the cost of a South African passport has increased significantly as of August 2023. It is important to note that the fees for passports and travel documents are subject to change and that applicants should confirm the latest fees before submitting their applications.
Replacement of Lost or Damaged Passports
When a South African citizen loses or damages their passport, they will need to apply for a replacement. The cost of replacing a lost or damaged passport is higher than the cost of applying for a new passport.
Lost Passport
If a South African citizen loses their passport, they will need to apply for a new one. The cost of replacing a lost passport is R1,200, which is three times the cost of applying for a new passport. The applicant will need to provide a police report stating that the passport was lost or stolen. The Department of Home Affairs will not issue a new passport without a police report.
Damaged Passport
If a South African citizen damages their passport, they can apply for a new one. The cost of replacing a damaged passport is R1,200, which is three times the cost of applying for a new passport. The applicant will need to provide the damaged passport as proof of damage. The Department of Home Affairs will not issue a new passport without the damaged passport.
It is important to note that the Department of Home Affairs will not issue a new passport if the applicant owes any outstanding fees to the Department. The applicant will need to settle any outstanding fees before the Department will issue a new passport.
In conclusion, South African citizens who lose or damage their passports will need to apply for a replacement. The cost of replacing a lost or damaged passport is R1,200, which is three times the cost of applying for a new passport. The applicant will need to provide a police report or the damaged passport as proof. The Department of Home Affairs will not issue a new passport if the applicant owes any outstanding fees.
