
Home Affairs Issues Abroad
Championing Better Consular Support for Every South African Abroad
Consular Oversight & Application Support for South Africans Abroad
The DA and the DA Abroad play a crucial role in providing oversight over the Department of International Relations & Cooperation (DIRCO), as well as the Department of Home Affairs; in particular regarding the matter of poor service delivery at all South African consular offices abroad.
To achieve this, we are in continuous contact with both the diplomatic missions and the Department in order to highlight shortcomings and assist with individuals’ applications.
Therefore, should you be experiencing trouble with your document application overseas (an emergency, waiting 6 months or longer etc.), please reach out to us via our contact form explaining your situation. People who have gone through VFS for their applications can also make use of our assistance.
News as of 8 July 2025:
After decades of frustration, delays, and outdated paper-based systems, long-overdue change is finally coming to Home Affairs services for South Africans living abroad.
In his budget speech on 8 July 2025, DA Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber, announced a bold step forward: more global passport service points and a commitment to a five-week turnaround time. Starting this month, South Africans in New Zealand (Auckland & Wellington), Australia (Sydney & Melbourne), and Dubai will be able to renew their passport, or apply for one for the first time, at local VFS offices. Later this year, services will expand to France, Germany, and the Netherlands, with North America following in 2026.
While this is a huge relief and a positive first step, Minister Schreiber has made it clear: this is just the beginning. The ultimate goal is “Home Affairs @ Home”, a fully online system that brings government services to every South African, no matter where in the world they are. The next few years promise even more transformative changes, and we will be here to keep you informed along every step.