Passport renewal in Botswana
Renewing a Botswana passport generally involves submitting an application form along with necessary supporting documents and the previous passport to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. The process can be initiated both within Botswana and at Batswana missions abroad.
It is advisable to begin the passport renewal process several months before the current passport's expiry date. This allows ample time for processing, which can vary, and accounts for potential appointment waiting times at immigration offices or missions.
Start 21 days ahead
Processing times can vary, but generally, it is suggested to allow for a few weeks for a new passport to be issued after submission.
The process
- 1Obtain the passport renewal application form (Form T21) from a Department of Immigration and Citizenship office, a Botswana Embassy/High Commission, or download it from the official website if available.
- 2Complete the application form accurately and fully.
- 3Gather all required supporting documents, including the existing passport, national identity card (Omang), and passport-sized photographs.
- 4Submit the completed application form and all supporting documents in person at a Department of Immigration and Citizenship office in Botswana or at a Botswana Embassy/High Commission if residing abroad.
- 5Pay the prescribed passport renewal fee.
- 6Collect the new passport once processing is complete, usually upon presentation of the old passport and the collection slip/receipt.
What to bring
- Duly completed passport renewal application form (Form T21)
- Original and photocopy of the current passport
- Original and photocopy of the National Identity Card (Omang)
- Recent passport-sized photographs (specific requirements for size and background should be confirmed)
- Proof of payment for the renewal fee (receipt or bank slip)
Who handles it
Department of Immigration and Citizenship (Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs), Botswana
The fee for a Botswana passport renewal should be confirmed directly with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship or the relevant Botswana Embassy/High Commission, as fees can be subject to change and may vary by location (e.g., in Botswana vs. abroad).
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all required documents are original and that photocopies are clear, as incomplete applications can lead to delays.
- Verify the specific requirements for passport photographs, including size, background color, and head positioning, as non-compliant photos are a common reason for application rejection.
- Check the operating hours and any appointment requirements of the submission office or mission before visiting.
- If applying from abroad, confirm specific payment methods accepted by the embassy or high commission, as these may differ from those in Botswana.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in Botswana
Passport renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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