South Africa Passport - Ranking and Travel Freedom

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South Africa passport 🇿🇦
South African Passport is a travel document, issued by the South African government, that serves as the ultimate proof of South African citizenship. South African passport is ranked 84 in the world, with visa-free access to 92 countries. Beyond its primary function of enabling international travel, it also acts as a universally accepted form of identification.

South Africa passport details

It serves as a reliable form of identification, both domestically and internationally. It is an essential travel document that allows South African to travel abroad and provides them with the right to assistance from South African consular officials overseas. The South African passport is also a potent symbol of South African nationality and the rights and privileges this carries, including the right to live and work in South Africa.
Passport validity
10 years
Passport fees
R 400
Bank Pages
32
E-Passport
Available
Biometric
Available

South Africa passport ranking

The South African passport is ranked 84 in the world's Below Average passports, meaning it allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 92 countries worldwide. The strength of a passport is often measured by the travel freedom it provides its holders. The South African passport is considered one of the Below Average in the world.
74
visa free
18
visa on arrival
43
online visa
103
sticker visa
Travel FreedomTransit FreedomNomad Freedom

How to apply for South Africa passport

  1. 1
    Eligibility Criteria
    To apply for an South Africa passport, you must be an South Africa citizen, either by birth or naturalisation. Dual citizens are also eligible. If you are applying for a child, you must be their parent or guardian.
  2. 2
    Gather documents
    Gather all the necessary documents required for a South Africa passport including birth certificate / citizenship and any other supporting documents.
  3. 3
    Copy documents
    Scan all documents and print a copy of them before hand. All documents that are not in the English language, must be translated and notarized.
  4. 4
    Fill application
    Fill the application form for South African passport.
  5. 5
    Submit documents
    After filling, providing the required documents and make the payment and submit your application for South African passport
  6. 6
    Application processing
    Wait for approval. Applicant(s) will be informed by email of successful application(s) for South African passport.
  7. 7
    Receive passport
    You will receive South African passport through mail, which allows you to live and work in South African.

South Africa visa advice

If you're considering exploring South Africa beyond the usual transit spots, our comprehensive guide on South Africa transit visa offers deeper insights and broader options for travelers of different nationalities. For those transiting through other countries en route to South Africa, understanding South Africa Transit Visa requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth journey.

Frequently asked questions

To apply for an South Africa passport, you must be an South Africa citizen, either by birth or naturalisation. Dual citizens are also eligible. If you are applying for a child, you must be their parent or guardian.
A regular adult South Africa passport is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. For children under 16 years of age and people aged 75 and over, the passports are valid for 5years.
The South Africa passport ranks at position 84 and is considered one of the Below Average powerful in the world.
Applying for an South Africa passport requires proof of identity, proof of South Africa citizenship, and two passport photos that meet the required specifications. Additional documents may be required in special cases.
Holders of an South Africa passport have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries. However, this list can change, so it's essential to verify the current status before traveling.
You can apply for an South Africa passport online via the South Africa Passport Office website, then submit your printed form, original documents, and photos in-person at a participating South African Post outlet or an South Africa diplomatic or consular mission if overseas.
If your passport is lost or stolen while abroad, report it immediately to the nearest South Africa embassy or consulate. You may apply for an Emergency Passport in such cases.
Yes, you can apply to renew your passport at any time. However, keep in mind that any remaining validity on your existing passport will not be transferred to your new one.
The standard processing time for an South Africa passport is usually several weeks. However, if you need a passport urgently, you might be eligible for priority processing for an additional fee.

Countries to travel near South Africa

Botswana Passport
Lesotho Passport
Namibia Passport
Eswatini Passport
Zimbabwe Passport
Disclaimer
The information in the site should be used as a guide only. You are advised to contact your local official mission/consulate/embassy and ensure you have the latest information. We take no responsibility.