DHA Forms & Application Guides
Complete list of Department of Home Affairs (DHA) forms required for passport, Smart ID, visa, and civil registration applications at South African embassies abroad. Each form includes a description and guidance on how to complete it.
Passport Application Forms
Form BI-73 -- Application for a South African Passport
The primary form for all passport applications, whether new issue, renewal, or replacement. This form must be completed by all applicants aged 16 and above.
- Who needs it: All adult passport applicants (new, renewal, or replacement)
- How to get it: Available at any South African embassy, high commission, or consulate. Some missions provide it for download on their websites.
- Key tips: Complete in black ink. Do not use correction fluid. All sections must be filled in. Attach two passport-sized photos (white background, 35mm x 45mm).
- Supporting documents: Current/expired passport, certified copy of SA ID or Smart ID card, proof of residence in host country
Form BI-73 (Minor) -- Child Passport Application
Application form for passports for children under 16 years of age. Must be completed and signed by both parents or legal guardians.
- Who needs it: Parents/guardians applying for a child's passport
- Supporting documents: Unabridged birth certificate, both parents' IDs/passports, consent form (BI-517) if only one parent applies, court order for custody arrangements
Form BI-517 -- Parental Consent for Child Passport
Required when only one parent accompanies the child or applies for the passport. The absent parent must complete this form and have it certified.
- Who needs it: The absent parent granting consent for the child's passport application
- Key tips: Must be signed before a commissioner of oaths or notary public. Include a certified copy of the absent parent's ID.
Smart ID Card Forms
Smart ID Card Application
The Smart ID card application is processed through the DHA Live Capture system at missions that have the equipment. No separate paper form is required where Live Capture is available.
- Who needs it: SA citizens abroad who need a first-issue or replacement Smart ID card
- Requirements: In-person attendance for biometric capture (fingerprints, photo), current passport or ID book, proof of residence
- Availability: Only at missions with Live Capture equipment. Contact your embassy to confirm.
Birth, Marriage & Death Registration Forms
Form DHA-24 -- Notice of Birth (Birth Registration)
Used to register the birth of a child born abroad to South African parent(s). This is the critical form for obtaining South African citizenship by descent for children born outside SA.
- Who needs it: South African parents registering a child born abroad
- Deadline: Should be submitted within 30 days of birth (late registration attracts a fee of R25)
- Key tips: Completed in black ink by the SA parent. If both parents are SA citizens, the father completes and signs.
- Supporting documents: Original birth certificate from host country (translated into English if necessary), parents' SA IDs/passports, parents' marriage certificate (if applicable)
Form DHA-154 -- Application for Unabridged Birth Certificate
Used to request a full (unabridged) birth certificate showing both parents' details. Essential for immigration, dual citizenship, and ancestry visa applications.
- Who needs it: Anyone needing proof of both parents' details for legal, immigration, or administrative purposes
- Processing time: 8-12 weeks when applied for through an embassy
Form BI-175 -- Notice of Marriage Abroad
Used to register a marriage that took place abroad with the South African Department of Home Affairs.
- Who needs it: South African citizens who married abroad and need SA recognition of the marriage
- Supporting documents: Original foreign marriage certificate (translated if necessary), both spouses' SA IDs/passports
Form BI-1663 -- Notice of Death Abroad
Used to register a death of a South African citizen abroad with the Department of Home Affairs.
- Who needs it: Family members registering the death of an SA citizen abroad
- Supporting documents: Original death certificate from host country, deceased's SA ID/passport
Visa Application Forms
Form BI-84 -- Application for a Visa (Visiting South Africa)
The standard visa application form for foreign nationals wishing to visit South Africa. Required for citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt.
- Who needs it: Foreign nationals from visa-required countries applying to visit SA
- Where to submit: At the nearest South African embassy/consulate or through VFS Global centres
- Supporting documents: Valid passport (6+ months validity), passport photos, proof of accommodation, return flight booking, proof of funds, travel insurance
Police Clearance Forms
SAPS 91(a) -- Fingerprint Enquiry Form
The official SAPS fingerprint form required for police clearance certificate applications. Can also use the official fingerprint form of your country of residence.
- Who needs it: Anyone applying for a South African Police Clearance Certificate
- Key tips: Fingerprints must be taken by a qualified official (police officer or embassy official). All 10 fingerprints required. Form must be original, not a copy.
General Tips for Completing DHA Forms
Do
- Use black ink only
- Print clearly in BLOCK CAPITALS
- Complete all sections (write N/A if not applicable)
- Sign and date where required
- Bring original documents and certified copies
- Book an appointment before visiting
Do Not
- Use correction fluid (Tipp-Ex)
- Leave sections blank
- Submit photocopies instead of originals
- Use pencil or coloured ink
- Send applications without required attachments
- Submit forms that are torn or damaged