South African passport services in the United Kingdom have been outsourced, which means services are provided in 3 major UK cities.
United Kingdom (08 June 2022) – Renewing a South African passport in the UK had always been a bit of a headache for expats as it meant taking a trip to London to visit the South African Embassy. This is no longer the case as the service has now been outsourced and can be done in Edinburgh, Manchester and London!
The South African High Commission in London shared a happy update recently. This will make life much easier for many South African passport holders.
“We are pleased to inform you that the Department of Home Affairs has outsourced passport services to VFS Global with effect from 01 June 2022.”
South Africans living in the UK are encouraged to book their appointments for passport services online. They are then to present themselves at one of the three available centres for the appointment.
The South African High Commission does wish to alert the public that this service is only for passport related business. The following is still to be done at the South African High Commission,
- Notice of birth/ birth registration
- 1st ID book and ID book replacement (Smart ID Cards are only issued in South Africa)
- 1st Adult passport, i.e. 15 1/2-year-olds who have never been issued with an ID book/Smart Card.
- Amendments, i.e. Change of forenames / Change of Surname (NOT due to marriage or divorce).
- Emergency Travel Certificate
- Death registration
- Consent for minor passport applications (For parents in different countries)
The following services are rendered strictly by post:
- Retention of South African citizenship.
- Renunciation of South African citizenship.
- Determination of citizenship status
You can find all the helpful information via the VFS Global website here.