South Africa has launched new passport service centres in Mozambique and Zimbabwe, cutting turnaround times from months to weeks as part of a five-continent expansion of consular services. Image: Supplied
South Africa has launched new passport service centres in Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The centres cut turnaround times for passport applications from months to weeks. This South Africa passport service expansion brings the service to five continents. Furthermore, it delivers faster access to documentation for South African citizens living abroad.
South Africa Passport Service Expansion: What Has Changed
The Department of Home Affairs confirmed the launch of the new service centres in both Mozambique and Zimbabwe. South African citizens in those countries can now apply for and renew their passports without travelling back to South Africa. Furthermore, the new centres significantly reduce the waiting period. Previously, South Africans abroad often waited months for passport services. As a result of the new centres, that wait is now reduced to weeks.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber confirmed the development. “We’ve now brought this service to 5 continents, delivering dignity to citizens around the globe,” Schreiber said. The minister framed the expansion as part of a broader effort to modernise and expand consular services for South Africans living and working abroad.
Why This Matters for South Africans Abroad
Accessing passport services has historically been one of the biggest challenges facing South African expatriates. Long queues, limited consular capacity and slow processing times have left many South Africans stranded without valid travel documents for extended periods. Furthermore, expired passports have prevented South Africans from travelling, working and accessing services in their countries of residence.
The launch of dedicated passport service centres addresses that problem directly. South Africans in Mozambique and Zimbabwe are among the largest expatriate communities on the African continent. As a result, the two new centres will serve a significant and immediate need.
A Global Expansion
The Mozambique and Zimbabwe launches bring South Africa’s passport service network to five continents. The Department of Home Affairs has been steadily expanding its consular footprint under Minister Schreiber’s tenure. Furthermore, the expansion reflects a broader government commitment to improving service delivery for South African citizens regardless of where they live.
The service expansion is particularly significant given the current regional context. Mozambique and Zimbabwe are home to two of the largest South African diaspora communities. Furthermore, both countries have been at the centre of recent diplomatic discussions involving South Africa. As a result, improved consular services represent a practical and tangible expression of South Africa’s commitment to its citizens abroad.
How to Access the New Services
South African citizens in Mozambique and Zimbabwe who require passport services are encouraged to contact the South African High Commission or embassy in their country for details on how to access the new service centres. Furthermore, citizens can visit the Department of Home Affairs website for updated information on consular services available abroad.
For more information visit the Department of Home Affairs at dha.gov.za.
Editors Note All information in this article is based on the official announcement by Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber as at 3 June 2026. Mzansi Today Live will update this article as further information becomes available.