How to check Passport Application Status

Checking the status of your passport application in South Africa is a straightforward process thanks to the services provided by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). Here’s how you can stay updated on your application’s progress:

Online Status Check

  1. Visit the DHA Website: Start by going to the official Department of Home Affairs website.
  2. Application Status Section: Look for a section dedicated to tracking applications. This might be labeled something like “Track Your Application” or “Passport Application Status.”
  3. Enter Your Details: You will typically need to enter your ID number and perhaps some additional information such as your application reference number.
  4. View Your Status: After submitting your details, your application status should be displayed. This will tell you whether your application is still being processed, ready for collection, or if there are any issues that need your attention.

SMS Service

The DHA offers an SMS service that allows you to check the status of your passport application.

  1. Send an SMS: You can send an SMS to a specific number provided by the DHA with a message containing your ID number.
  2. Receive Status Update: In response, you will receive an SMS updating you on the status of your passport application.

PLEASE CONTACT THE HOME AFFAIRS CALL CENTRE (HACC) ON 0800 60 11 90
OR EMAIL hacc@dha.gov.za FOR ANY ENQUIRY

OFFICE HOURS:Offices open to the public as follows: 
Monday to Friday: 8:00 to 15:30- Every last Wednesday of the month: 9:00 to 15:30

Telephone Inquiry

  1. Find the Contact Number: The DHA provides a customer service number for inquiries, which you can find on their website or your application receipt.
  2. Prepare Your Information: Have your ID number and application reference number ready.
  3. Call and Inquire: Call the provided number, follow the voice prompts to navigate to passport application inquiries, and provide your details when requested.

In-person Inquiry

If you prefer to check your application status in person or if you are visiting for another service:

  1. Visit Your Nearest DHA Office: Go to the nearest Department of Home Affairs office.
  2. Bring Your Receipt: It’s helpful to have your application receipt or any other documents related to your application.
  3. Ask for Assistance: At the office, ask a staff member how you can check the status of your application. They may direct you to a self-service kiosk or assist you at the counter.

Tips for Checking Your Passport Application Status

  • Keep Your Documents Handy: Always have your ID number and application reference number ready when checking your status.
  • Be Patient: Passport processing times can vary, especially during busy periods. Regularly checking the status can keep you informed about any delays or issues.
  • Follow Up If Necessary: If your passport status indicates a problem or if it seems stuck at one stage for too long, don’t hesitate to contact the DHA for clarification.

Remember, the processing time for passport applications in South Africa can vary depending on the volume of applications being handled and other factors. It’s always a good idea to apply well in advance of any planned travel to avoid any stress related to waiting for your passport.


Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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