Home Affairs extends its operating hours

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The department of home affairs has announced that it is extending its operating hours from Tuesday, 10 December to Friday, 20 December by two hours daily for all services.

From the normal 16:00 the department said on these days, its offices will close at 18:00 instead.

According to DHA, this is to ease pressure on its clients, as it has also introduced dedicated counters for collections in large offices that process Smart ID Cards and passports, where space allows.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said clients have an option to book application or collection appointments before visiting offices, using the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which is available on their website – through this link.

He further stated that the department also allows clients who may not have an opportunity to book appointments to visit as walk-ins.

“We would like to urge all clients who have applied for their identification documents and have been waiting for three weeks or more, to seize this opportunity by visiting their nearest office to collect these critical documents at their convenience.

“These extended operating hours and process improvements are part of our commitment to delivering dignity to all our clients.

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“We understand that many people are travelling over the festive period, which is why Home Affairs is going the extra mile to ensure South Africans get the documents they need to spend precious time with friends and family,” the minister explained.