You book your flight and sire a cocktail spiritually at your dream destination. But before you move on beyond yourself, one question: Are you actually ready for a trip?
Every year, many South Africans face last-minute airport dramas: they refused to board due to expired passports, missing birth certificates when traveling with children, and even incorrect documents. Make sure it's not you.
Avoid passport panic!
Q: How relevant does a passport need?
In most countries, your passport must have a validity of at least six months from the intended return date. Please check your destination visa and entry requirements in advance.
“One of the most common mistakes we've seen is assuming that your passport will expire while traveling. Unfortunately, many countries will alienate travelers if there is less than six months left in your passport. Some airlines don't even even board. Lynette Machiri, customer experience leader at flight centres in South Africa, said:
Q: How many blank pages are there?
You will need at least 2 – 3 blank pages on your passport for admission stamps.
Do you want to travel where you need a visa? Some countries require two blank face pages for visas and entry stamps.
“There are few things that are more heartbreaking than arriving at the airport and getting a passport. If you are applying for a visa, you must have at least two full blank pages side by side. Double check before your trip!” Comment Machile.
Q: Can I leave South Africa in my foreign passport?
no. If you have multiple passports, you must use your South African passport when leaving the country. Once you reach your destination, you are free to use other passports if necessary. The same rules apply when you return – South African citizens must enter the country using their South African passport.
Everything you need to know about traveling with your kids
Q: Do children need birth certificates that are not yet complied with while traveling?
yes! All minor children (under the age of 18) must travel through South African ports of entry. This is part of South Africa's efforts to prevent child trafficking.
“A frequent mistake we see is that we assume that a birth certificate that no longer has parents' birth is “needed to be needed.” That's wrong. Additionally, if one parent is traveling alone with their children, additional documentation is required, such as a consent form and a copy of the ID of the absent parent. Immigration officers have not made any exceptions and the airline will refuse to board if the documents are not in place,” says Machili. For more information about the requirements for children traveling through South African ports of entry, click here.
Passport application and update
Q: How do I apply or renew my passport with SA?
The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched its Branch Appointment Reservation System (BABS), so you can submit your application online and book a biometric appointment with one of the following:
Interior offices or participating bank branches offering home affairs services (recommended for faster processing!)
As availability is limited, it is highly recommended to book in advance.
What you need for your passport application:
Completed Form (DHA-73) Green ID Book/Smart ID or Birth Certificate (if under 16) Color Photos of 2 Passport Sizes (unless you apply at the Smart Card Office) Proof of Parental Consent (Emergency Travel Certificates only, if applicable) (Emergency Travel Certificates only) (Emergency Travel Certificates only) Existing Valid Tourist Passport (if your passport is lost or stolen) to the police).
Q: How much does a passport cost?
Regular (32 pages) Passport: R600 Maxi (48 pages for frequent travelers) Passport: R1200
Please note that emergency passports are only available in emergency cases. But not all countries accept them!
Q: How long does it take to process your passport?
Expect to collect your passport within 7-21 business days*. But as Machili warns:
“December, Easter, and school holidays often cause important interior affairs backlogs. We receive monthly requests from stressed travelers looking for a 'rush' passport. This is the truth: it's not like that! Due to limited reservations, we aim to apply at least six months before your passport expires. ”
Travel Smart Tips to Avoid Travel Hiccups
I'll apply it early. If your passport is within 6 months for it to expire, please renew it as soon as possible! Please check the visa requirements. Some visa applications take several months to process. Don't be late. Get a certified copy of your travel documents when you travel (email one with a digital copy!)
Final Trip Checklist: Are you ready?
A valid passport at least 6 months after the return date? Two or more blank passport pages? The correct visa you obtained (if applicable)? Unintegrated birth certificate and consent form sorting (if traveling with children)? Are all the documents you need scanned and backed up?
Do you want to check all of the above? After that, you're ready for a smooth and stress-free trip! Bookmark this guide, check your passport now and travel with confidence in 2025!
* Processing time varies
**As of March 3, 2025, all information is correct
For more information, visit Flight Center Travel Group South Africa.
