United Arab Emirates and South Africa introduce faster passport renewal process for expatriates through new VFS Global partnership

Published on August 9, 2025

South African nationals living in the United Arab Emirates can now renew their passports more easily thanks to a new partnership between the two countries. Starting July 2025, the introduction of passport renewal services at the VFS Global centre in Dubai eliminates the need for residents to visit the South African Consulate General. This streamlined process saves time and effort by allowing applicants to submit documents, complete biometric enrolment, and track their applications locally, while processing remains secure and efficient through South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs.

South African Passport Renewals Now Offered at VFS Global in Dubai

South African nationals living in the United Arab Emirates have gained a more convenient way to renew their passports. Starting in July 2025, passport renewal services are available at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Wafi City, Dubai, following a new agreement with South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs.

This development removes the need for residents to travel to the Consulate General in Dubai solely for renewal purposes. Instead, they can submit their applications at the dedicated VFS Global facility in Dubai or, alternatively, at the Embassy of South Africa in Abu Dhabi. By streamlining the process, the new arrangement is set to make passport renewals more accessible for South Africans across the UAE.

VFS Global Becomes the Sole Outsourced Service Provider

Under the new system, VFS Global is the exclusive outsourced service provider handling South African passport renewal applications in the UAE. The partnership centralises the submission process, ensuring that all applications go through a uniform channel before being sent to South Africa for processing.

This consolidation means that residents no longer have to deal directly with multiple government offices. Instead, they can make use of a professional service that offers dedicated facilities, structured appointment systems, and secure handling of applications.

How to Apply for a South African Passport Renewal in Dubai

Applicants must first review the list of required documents available on the VFS Global website or through official information channels. These typically include the current passport, completed application forms, proof of residency, photographs that meet specific biometric standards, and any other supporting documentation requested by the South African authorities.

Once the necessary documents are prepared, applicants should book an appointment with the VFS Global centre. On the scheduled date, they will need to attend the appointment in person to submit their documents, complete biometric enrolment, and pay the relevant application fees. Biometric enrolment includes capturing fingerprints and taking a compliant facial photograph, which forms part of the verification process.

Processing and Collection

After submission, applications are sent securely to South Africa, where the Department of Home Affairs processes them. Once the new passport is issued, it is returned to the VFS Global centre in Dubai for collection by the applicant.

Applicants can monitor the progress of their renewal by using the reference number provided during submission. The tracking system is available online, offering status updates until the passport is ready for pick-up.

Recommended Timelines for Renewal

Officials strongly advise South African nationals in the UAE to apply for renewal at least twelve months before their current passport expires. This recommendation takes into account the time required for processing in South Africa as well as any unforeseen delays.

The estimated processing time for renewals is between eight and ten weeks from the date of submission. However, delays are possible, particularly during peak application periods or if additional verification is required. Applicants are therefore urged to avoid making travel plans until their new passport is in hand.

Optional Services for Added Convenience

VFS Global offers a range of optional services designed to make the renewal process even smoother. These may include premium lounge access, courier return of the passport, and SMS notifications regarding the application’s progress. While these services come at an additional cost, they provide extra comfort and flexibility, especially for those with busy schedules.

A Step Forward for the South African Community in the UAE

The introduction of this service marks an important step forward for the South African expatriate community in the UAE. By bringing passport renewal facilities closer to where people live and work, the process becomes more manageable and less time-consuming.

With a centralised system, residents can expect consistent standards in application handling and security. The appointment-based model also helps reduce waiting times and ensures that each applicant receives individual attention during their visit.

Supporting the Growing Expat Population

The UAE is home to a large number of South African expatriates, many of whom work in various sectors ranging from hospitality and healthcare to finance and construction. The ability to renew passports locally means fewer disruptions to their professional and personal lives, especially for those who would otherwise need to travel internationally for such services.

This change reflects a broader trend in consular services, where governments are increasingly working with specialised providers to deliver faster, more efficient services abroad. It also highlights the growing role of the UAE as a hub for international communities, offering world-class infrastructure and accessibility.

Looking Ahead

As the service launches in July 2025, early applicants are expected to benefit from shorter processing queues before demand peaks. Over time, the initiative could pave the way for additional South African consular services to be offered through VFS Global, expanding the range of documentation and administrative tasks that can be handled locally.

South African nationals in the United Arab Emirates can now renew passports locally at VFS Global Dubai starting July 2025. This new service simplifies the process, saving time and avoiding visits to the consulate.

For now, the focus remains on ensuring a smooth transition to the new system and raising awareness among South African nationals in the UAE. By following the official guidelines, preparing documents in advance, and applying early, residents can take full advantage of this improved passport renewal option.