ElyForma
Home Affairs: Passports, IDs, VisasPassportsPassport RenewalSeniorsSouth AfricaHome Affairs

Passport Renewal for Adults Over 60

Complete guide to renewing passports for adults over 60 in South Africa in 2026. Learn about requirements, special considerations, documents needed, fees, processing times, and senior-friendly services.

Home Affairs Expert
January 25, 2026
11 min read
Passport Renewal for Adults Over 60

Passport Renewal for Adults Over 60

Renewing a passport for adults over 60 follows the same process as other adult passport renewals, but there may be special considerations and services available for seniors. Understanding the requirements, process, and any senior-specific services helps ensure a smooth renewal experience. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about renewing passports for adults over 60 in South Africa.

Renewal Requirements

Basic Requirements

Essential Documents:

  • Previous Passport: Original passport (expired or expiring)
  • Valid ID Document: Smart ID or green barcoded ID
  • Two Passport Photos: Recent photos meeting requirements
  • Completed Application Form: DHA-73 form
  • Proof of Payment: Receipt for passport fee

Same as Other Adults:

  • Same requirements as all adults
  • Same fees (R600 standard, R1,200 maxi)
  • Same processing times
  • Same validity (10 years)
  • Same process

Special Considerations

Age-Related Considerations:

  • May have priority service (some offices)
  • May have assistance available
  • May have shorter queues (some offices)
  • Same requirements apply
  • No age-based discounts

Health Considerations:

  • If mobility issues, inform office
  • May have assistance available
  • Can bring helper/companion
  • Some offices have accessibility features
  • Plan accordingly

Renewal Process

Step 1: Prepare Documents

Before Applying:

  • Check passport expiry date
  • Ensure ID is valid
  • Get passport photos taken
  • Complete application form
  • Pay application fee

Document Checklist:

  • ✓ Previous passport (original)
  • ✓ Valid ID document
  • ✓ Two passport photos
  • ✓ Completed application form
  • ✓ Proof of payment
  • ✓ Additional documents (if needed)

Step 2: Pay Application Fee

Passport Fees (2026):

  • Standard Passport: R600
  • Maxi Passport: R1,200
  • Same as all adults: No senior discount
  • Non-refundable: Even if not issued

Payment Methods:

  • Bank deposit (most common)
  • Online payment (if available)
  • Cash at some offices (limited)
  • Use ID number as reference
  • Keep proof of payment

Step 3: Book Appointment or Walk In

Appointment Booking:

  • Book online (recommended)
  • Select preferred date/time
  • Choose nearest office
  • Consider accessibility
  • Plan for assistance if needed

Walk-In Option:

  • Some offices accept walk-ins
  • May have priority for seniors (some offices)
  • Arrive early
  • Bring all documents
  • Be prepared for wait

Best Times:

  • Early morning (less busy)
  • Mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday)
  • Avoid month-end
  • Avoid public holidays
  • Consider office capacity

Step 4: Visit Home Affairs Office

At the Office:

  • Present previous passport
  • Submit application form
  • Provide ID document
  • Complete biometric capture
  • Receive application receipt

Biometric Capture:

  • Digital fingerprints
  • Digital photograph
  • Signature capture
  • Takes 10-15 minutes
  • May need assistance

Assistance Available:

  • Office staff can help
  • Can bring companion
  • Some offices have priority
  • Accessibility features
  • Ask for help if needed

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing Times:

  • Standard: 10-15 working days
  • Same as all adults: No faster processing
  • May vary: By office and time of year
  • Track application: Use reference number
  • Be patient: Processing takes time

Step 6: Collect New Passport

Collection:

  • Receive notification when ready
  • Bring ID document
  • Bring application receipt
  • Collect in person
  • Verify passport details

Collection Assistance:

  • Can bring companion
  • Office staff can help
  • Verify details carefully
  • Check expiry date
  • Keep passport safe

Special Services for Seniors

Priority Service

Some Offices Offer:

  • Priority queues for seniors
  • Faster service (some offices)
  • Dedicated assistance
  • Shorter wait times
  • Better experience

Availability:

  • Not all offices
  • Check office policy
  • May vary by location
  • Ask at office
  • Not guaranteed

Assistance Services

Available Assistance:

  • Office staff help
  • Form completion help
  • Guidance through process
  • Answering questions
  • General support

Companion Support:

  • Can bring family member
  • Can bring friend
  • Can bring helper
  • Assistance allowed
  • Support welcome

Accessibility

Office Accessibility:

  • Some offices have ramps
  • Some have elevators
  • Some have seating
  • Some have parking
  • Check before visiting

Planning:

  • Check office accessibility
  • Plan for mobility needs
  • Bring assistance if needed
  • Consider transportation
  • Plan accordingly

Fees and Costs

Standard Fees

Passport Renewal Fees:

  • Standard Passport (32 pages): R600
  • Maxi Passport (48 pages): R1,200
  • No senior discount: Same as all adults
  • Non-refundable: Even if not used

Additional Costs:

  • Passport photos (separate)
  • Travel to office
  • Courier (if available, extra)
  • Other expenses

Payment Considerations

Payment Methods:

  • Bank deposit (most common)
  • May need assistance
  • Online payment (if comfortable)
  • Cash at some offices
  • Plan payment method

Tips for Smooth Renewal

Preparation

Before Application:

  • Renew 6 months before expiry
  • Prepare documents early
  • Get photos taken
  • Complete forms
  • Plan appointment

Document Preparation:

  • Ensure all documents current
  • Get passport photos early
  • Complete forms accurately
  • Have payment ready
  • Organize documents

At the Office

During Application:

  • Arrive on time (or early)
  • Bring all documents
  • Bring companion if needed
  • Ask for help if needed
  • Be patient with process

Communication:

  • Ask questions if unclear
  • Request assistance if needed
  • Explain any concerns
  • Follow instructions
  • Keep reference number

Health and Mobility Considerations

Mobility Issues

If Mobility Challenges:

  • Check office accessibility
  • Bring companion/helper
  • Request assistance
  • Plan for seating/waiting
  • Consider transportation

Office Assistance:

  • Staff can help
  • Can provide guidance
  • Can assist with forms
  • Can answer questions
  • Support available

Vision or Hearing

If Vision/Hearing Issues:

  • Bring companion for assistance
  • Request larger print forms
  • Ask for clear communication
  • Take time to understand
  • Don't hesitate to ask questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do seniors get a discount on passport renewal?

No, passport renewal fees are the same for all adults regardless of age. A standard passport renewal costs R600, and a maxi passport costs R1,200, with no senior discounts available.

Are there special services for seniors at Home Affairs offices?

Some Home Affairs offices may offer priority service or dedicated assistance for seniors, but this varies by office and is not guaranteed. You can bring a companion for assistance, and office staff are generally helpful to all applicants.

Do processing times differ for seniors?

No, passport processing times are the same for all applicants regardless of age. Standard processing takes 10-15 working days. Express processing (if available) takes 5-7 working days for an additional fee, but this is available to all applicants.

Can I bring someone to help me with my passport renewal?

Yes, you can bring a family member, friend, or helper to assist you with your passport renewal. They can help with forms, provide support, and assist with the process. Office staff are also available to help.

What if I have mobility issues?

If you have mobility issues, check the office accessibility before visiting, bring a companion for assistance, request help from office staff, and plan for seating and waiting areas. Some offices have better accessibility features than others.

Do I need to renew my passport at a certain age?

No, there's no specific age requirement for passport renewal. You renew your passport when it expires or is about to expire, regardless of your age. The process and requirements are the same for all adults.

Can I get help completing the application form?

Yes, office staff can help you complete the application form, and you can also bring a companion to assist you. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.

What if I can't travel to the office?

You must visit a Home Affairs office in person to complete the passport renewal, as biometric capture (fingerprints and photo) is required. If you have mobility issues, bring a companion, check office accessibility, or contact Home Affairs to discuss your situation.

Are there any age-related requirements for passport photos?

No, passport photo requirements are the same for all applicants regardless of age. Photos must be 35mm x 45mm, have a plain white background, show your full face with a neutral expression, and be taken within 30 days of application.

How long is a passport valid for seniors?

Passports for adults (including seniors) are valid for 10 years, the same as for all adults. There's no difference in validity based on age. Renew your passport 6 months before expiry to avoid travel disruptions.

Conclusion

Renewing a passport for adults over 60 follows the same process as other adult passport renewals, with the same requirements, fees (R600 standard, R1,200 maxi), and processing times (10-15 working days). Some offices may offer priority service or assistance for seniors, but this varies by location. You can bring a companion for assistance, and office staff are available to help. Plan ahead, renew 6 months before expiry, and don't hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.

For more information about passport applications, requirements, or Home Affairs services, explore our other comprehensive Home Affairs guides.


Related Articles:

Official Resources:

Share:
About the Author
Home Affairs Expert

Home Affairs Expert

Specializing in South African Home Affairs services, passports, IDs, and visa applications with extensive knowledge of senior citizen services and requirements.