Thousands of South Africans prepare for the holidays by making travel plans or visiting family abroad.

In August, Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi announced that his office would eliminate several “luxuries” granted to South Africans to bolster passport security. The security review is now being conducted on the passport application procedures.

Recently there have been concerns regarding travellers experiencing challenges when applying for or renewing their passports.

Siya Qoza, the spokesperson for Home Affairs, spoke with Radio Islam International on the procedures involved in renewing a passport.