How To Apply for a New South African Passport in Canada Once Yours Expires?

If you're a South African passport holder living in Canada, keeping your passport valid at all times is crucial, even if you're not traveling. Unlike many other countries where passports can be renewed, South African passports cannot be renewed—you must apply for a new one when yours expires.

Processing times for a new passport can take up to six months, so it's recommended to apply at least 12 months before expiration to avoid delays. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth passport application process in Canada.

Where to Apply for a South African Passport in Canada

South African passport applications must be submitted either by mail or by appointment only at one of these locations:

South African High Commission (Ottawa)

• Address: 15 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1M 1M8
• Phone: (613) 744-0330
• Email: [email protected]
• Hours: Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

South African Consulate General (Toronto)

• Address: 110 Sheppard Avenue East, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario M2N 6Y8
• Phone: (416) 944-8825
• Email: [email protected]

Required Documents for a New South African Passport

To apply for a new passport, you must complete and submit the following forms:

• BI-73 – Passport application form.
• BI-529 – Determination of citizenship.
• BI-9 / DHA-9 – Fingerprint form (for applicants 16 years and older). Since this form is not downloadable, you must request it by mail with a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Additional Documents Required

Depending on your situation, you may also need:

• Certified copy of South African ID book or birth certificate (for applicants under 16).
• Certified copy of marriage certificate (if applicable).
• Divorce decree (if applicable).
• Certified copy of Canadian citizenship certificate, PR card, or study/work permit.
• Notarized naturalization certificate (for naturalized South African citizens).
• Affidavit for surname change (if applicable after marriage).

South African Passport Photo Requirements

Your application must include four (4) recent passport-sized photos that meet these specifications:

• White background.
• 35mm (width) x 45mm (height).
• No shadows, red-eye, or flash reflection.
• Eyes open and clearly visible.
• Neutral facial expression.

South African Passport Application Fees in Canada

All fees must be paid via money order payable to the South African High Commission or South African Consulate General.

Additionally, include a self-addressed Xpresspost envelope with a “signature on delivery” sticker for the return of your passport.

What to Do If Your Passport is Full Before Expiration

If your passport is full before its expiration date, you must provide a written explanation along with a copy of your entire passport when applying for a new one.

Applying for a Lost or Stolen South African Passport in Canada

If your passport is lost or stolen, you will need to provide:

• BI-335E form – Loss of Passport Report.
• Police report confirming the loss or theft.
• Final Tips for a Hassle-Free South African Passport Application
• Use black ink to fill out forms.
• Do not use correction fluid (white-out) or scratch out mistakes.
• Do not write “N/A” or draw lines across fields—leave them blank if not applicable.
• Double-check all required documents before submission.
• Track your application status via the South African High Commission or Consulate.

Need to Send Money from Canada to South Africa?

While you wait for your passport, consider using RemitBee for fast, secure, and cost-effective money transfers to South Africa. With great exchange rates and zero fees on transfers over $500, you can support your loved ones without overpaying on transaction fees.

Start Your Application Today

Avoid unnecessary delays by applying for your new South African passport well in advance. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process in Canada.