DailySun
Johannesburg – Starting today, (10 December) and continuing until 20 December 2024, the Department of Home Affairs has announced an extension of its operating hours by adding an extra two hours to the daily schedule for all services.
According to the department’s statement on Tuesday, “Offices will now close at 18:00 instead of 16:00.”
To ease the demand on clients, Home Affairs has established dedicated counters for collections in larger offices that manage Smart ID Cards and passports, where applicable.
Clients can schedule application or collection appointments in advance by using the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) accessible on the DHA Website – http://www.dha.gov.za https://services.dha.gov.za/#/authenticate/identity.
Furthermore, the department allows clients who are unable to book appointments to visit 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 advised.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber remarked: “These extended operating hours and process enhancements reflect our commitment to ensuring dignity for all our clients.”
“We understand that many people are on the move during the festive season, which is why Home Affairs is taking additional measures to help South Africans secure the necessary documents to create cherished moments with their friends and family.”
