Minors in South Africa are now given a new passport which includes the details of both the mother and the father. This is a big step for South Africa after much criticism of immigration policies and requirements regarding minors travelling without their parents. It also means a change in the application process. Now both parents must sign the application form for the minor’s passport and be present when the application is submitted.

While this can sometimes be difficult, it excludes many possible administrative nightmares when your child is travelling without his or her parents. Fortunately, you can now apply for your child’s passport online and no longer have to spend hours at Home Affairs! All you need to get started is internet access, your ID and access to your internet banking service. Use this link to make sure what the cost will be before you start: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/fees

Step by step online procedure

1. Register on the eHomeAffairs website.

Create a profile for yourself and choose a password.

The system will then send a PIN to your phone.

2. Complete the ‘New application for minors’ under the applications for ‘Travel documents’.

Attach a copy of both parents’ IDs. You must show the original IDs during the appointment.

NOTE: You must complete separate forms for both parents and the child.

3. Make the payment.

Enter your banking details and then log into your online banking service.

Add the Department of Home Affairs to your beneficiaries, enter your reference and approve the payment.

4. Make an appointment to provide your biometric data.

If you live in Cape Town, Johannesburg or Pretoria, you can do so at a bank branch with the necessary facilities. Here is a list of bank branches to choose from: https://mybroadband.co.za/news/government/161718-the-bank-branches-where-you-can-apply-for-your-smart-id-card.html You pick a time, and your appointment is confirmed via SMS.

If you are going to Home Affairs for your appointment, you do not need to book a time slot; you just show up at your nearest branch.

5. Attend your appointment.

Take your ID with you.

Also, take two colour ID photos if you go to Home Affairs. If you go to a bank branch, you shouldn’t need photos, as most banks have facilities to take digital ID photos.

NOTE: Both parents must be present at the appointment. Even if parents are divorced and the right has not been transferred to a single parent, both must be present. If one parent cannot be traced, the case must be referred to the children’s court. If one parent has passed away, you must take a copy of the death certificate with you. Although the rules are strictly enforced, the process runs reasonably quickly when all your documents are in order.

6. Wait for confirmation.

Once your passport is ready, you will receive a notification via SMS or email. It usually takes about 10 days.

Try to complete the application process as soon as possible in case you need to provide additional documents, or it is difficult to get both parents to the appointment.

NOTE: If your children are under the age of 15, you must still have their birth certificates on hand when they travel with you.

If you do not want to follow the online process, you can download the DHA-73 form from the internet or fetch one from Home Affairs.

Good luck with the process!