Home Affairs to Open Offices Longer This Holiday Season

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The Department of Home Affairs is extending its office hours for a couple of weeks in December 2025 and January 2026.

From December 8 to 19 and January 5 to 16, the offices will stay open two extra hours each day to help with applications and collecting important documents.

On designated days, offices will extend their hours, closing at 18:00 instead of the usual 16:00.

During these extended hours, services for processing Smart ID Cards and Passports will be available only at select offices.

To ensure that you can obtain travel and enabling documents to spend precious time with friends and family, #TeamHomeAffairs is extending operating hours over the Festive Season. We are committed to deliver dignity for all! 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/Vtnl7VJwlC

— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) December 5, 2025

Check Home Affairs website prior to visit

Clients are encouraged to schedule application or collection appointments via the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) on the Home Affairs website prior to visiting the offices. However, individuals who do not have an appointment may still enter as walk-ins.

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The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber, reaffirmed the commitment to offering accessible and people-centered services. He urged South Africans to take advantage of extended office hours available during the festive season to ensure their essential documents, including travel documents, are current.

The Minister stated that the extended hours being implemented will greatly help individuals obtain necessary documents, allowing them to spend valuable time with loved ones and prepare for the New Year.