South Africans living overseas will soon be able to receive their new passports directly at their doors, following a major initiative by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). The department confirmed that from 1 November 2025, citizens applying through South Africa’s global service centres will have the option of door to door delivery, a first in the department’s history.
Cutting Down Long Waits and Travel Costs
Previously, South African expats had to visit embassies or missions twice, once to apply and again to collect their passports. In some cases, waiting times stretched to as long as 18 months.
Recent upgrades to the DHA’s international processing systems have already reduced this to around five weeks. The new courier system removes the need for a second visit altogether, with passports expected to reach recipients within 24 to 72 hours after issuance. Delivery costs will range from 30 to 60 US dollars (about R520 to R1 040), depending on the destination country.
A Global Rollout with Local Ambitions
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber announced the new service during a visit to the South African community in The Hague, Netherlands, as part of his global outreach programme. He described the initiative as a pilot phase focused on the expat community before expanding to passport applicants inside South Africa.
Schreiber said the pilot will test efficiency and security, after which the option could be made available to all South Africans. Future plans include partnerships with local banks to further streamline the application and delivery process.
Where the Service Will Be Available
The first rollout locations include London, Dubai, Perth, Auckland, New York, Ottawa, Berlin and The Hague, with more centres expected to join in 2026. The department said the move forms part of its broader “Home Affairs @ Home” strategy, which aims to make government services more accessible, whether citizens live in Johannesburg or abroad.
Digital Transformation in Motion
The initiative has been widely welcomed as a step toward modernising one of South Africa’s most criticised departments. By embracing digital systems, courier partnerships and more efficient workflows, Home Affairs hopes to reduce queues, eliminate inefficiencies and deliver faster service for citizens worldwide.
Further details about participating missions and courier options are available on the Department of Home Affairs website and through South African missions abroad.
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