Johannesburg – The Department of Home Affairs has announced an extension of its operating hours commencing today, (10 December), and continuing until 20 December 2024, with an additional two hours added to the daily services schedule.
“During this period, all offices will now close at 18:00 instead of 16:00,” the department stated on Tuesday.
“To ease the workload for clients, Home Affairs has established dedicated counters for collections in larger offices that issue Smart ID Cards and passports, where space allows.”
The department highlighted that clients have the option to schedule their application or collection appointments before visiting the offices through the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) available on the DHA Website – http://www.dha.gov.za https://services.dha.gov.za/#/authenticate/identity.
Furthermore, the department permits clients who cannot book appointments to walk in without a prior booking.
“We encourage all clients who have applied for their identification documents and have been waiting for three weeks or more to take advantage of this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these essential documents at their convenience,” the department stated.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber remarked: “These extended operating hours and enhancements in processes demonstrate our commitment to treating all our clients with dignity.”
“We understand that many people are traveling during the festive season, which is why Home Affairs is taking proactive measures to ensure South Africans can secure the necessary documents to cherish valuable moments with friends and family.”
