In a move set to modernise passport services for citizens abroad, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has confirmed that South African expats will soon be able to have their passports delivered directly to their doorsteps.
The doorstep delivery service will officially launch on November 1, 2025, and will initially be available exclusively to South Africans living abroad.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber announced that the initiative is part of the department’s broader push to improve service delivery through digitisation. He added that once the system proves stable and effective, the service will be expanded to South Africans inside the country, including through ongoing digital partnerships with major banks.
“This is a major step in modernising the way we serve citizens, particularly those living overseas who have historically faced delays and difficulties accessing essential documents,” said Schreiber.
FASTER TURNAROUND
Traditionally, DHA offices have been plagued by long queues, offline systems, and administrative delays, prompting widespread frustration among South Africans. In response, the department has recently begun partnering with banks like ABSA, Standard Bank, FNB, and Nedbank to offer Smart ID and passport application services in selected branches.
The new international passport delivery service aims to further ease this burden. According to the department, turnaround times will range between 24 and 72 hours once the passport has been printed and dispatched. Courier fees will range from $30 to $60, depending on the destination.
INITIAL ROLLOUT IN 18 GLOBAL CITIES
The service will initially operate in 18 major cities across the globe, including London, New York, Dubai, Perth, and Berlin, with additional centres expected to be added in the coming months. Details about the exact locations and logistics will be published on the DHA’s official website ahead of the launch date.
South African citizens living abroad can apply for their passports at their nearest consulate or high commission, and once ready, opt in for the new doorstep delivery option.
