How to Track Your South African Passport Application
After submitting your passport application at a Home Affairs office or via eHomeAffairs, you can monitor its progress through several channels. This guide explains how to check if your passport is ready for collection in 2026.
Online Passport Tracking
The Department of Home Affairs provides a Track and Trace tool on its official website. This is the easiest and most reliable way to check your passport status.
You will need your 13-digit South African ID number and the reference number from your application receipt.
- Visit www.dha.gov.za
- Click "Online Services" in the navigation menu
- Select "Track and Trace Application Status"
- Enter your South African ID number and application reference number
- Click "Submit" to view your passport status
Tracking Through eHomeAffairs
If your application was submitted via eHomeAffairs, log in to www.ehomeaffairs.gov.za with your registered email and password. Your application dashboard will display the current status of all active applications.
Statuses shown include Submitted, Processing, Printing, and Ready for Collection.
Standard passport applications take 10 to 15 working days. Emergency passports can be ready in 2 to 5 working days with proof of urgent travel.
SMS and Email Notifications
When your passport is ready for collection, Home Affairs will send an SMS to the cellphone number registered on your application form. If you applied via eHomeAffairs, you will also receive an email notification.
If you have not received an SMS after 15 working days, use the online tracking tool or contact the Home Affairs contact centre.
Calling Home Affairs
You can call the Home Affairs toll-free number 0800 60 11 90 from Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm to inquire about your passport status. Have your ID number and reference number ready.
| Method | Details | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Online (DHA website) | www.dha.gov.za - Track and Trace | 24/7 |
| eHomeAffairs portal | www.ehomeaffairs.gov.za - My Applications | 24/7 |
| Toll-free call | 0800 60 11 90 | Mon-Fri 8am-4pm |
| SMS notification | Sent automatically when ready | Automatic |
| Visit office | Your application office | Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm |
Collecting Your Passport
Once you receive notification that your passport is ready, visit the Home Affairs office or bank branch where you submitted your application. Bring your application receipt and current identity document.
You must collect your passport in person. Proxy collection is not permitted.
- Bring your original application receipt (BI-73 form or bank confirmation)
- Bring your Smart ID card or green barcoded ID book
- Bring your old passport if it was not confiscated during application
- Arrive during collection hours (Monday to Friday, 8am to 3:30pm)
Do not book international flights before your passport is in your hands. Processing delays do occur, especially during peak travel periods such as school holidays.
Passport Not Ready After 20 Working Days
If your passport has not been processed after 20 working days, visit the Home Affairs office where you applied and speak to a supervisor. Bring all your application documents and the receipt.
You can also email the Home Affairs contact centre at contact.centre@dha.gov.za with your ID number, reference number, and a brief description of the issue.