The Department of Home Affairs will extend operating hours at offices across the country this weekend in support of the Electoral Commission of South Africa’s Voter Registration Weekend.

All Home Affairs offices will be open nationwide on:

• Saturday, June 20: 08:00 – 17:00
• Sunday, June 21: 08:00 – 17:00

Citizens are encouraged to visit their nearest Home Affairs office to apply for a Smart ID card or collect a Smart ID card that is ready for collection.

More than 370 000 Smart ID Cards are currently awaiting collection at Home Affairs offices nationwide.

The extended operating hours form part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to improve access to services and ensure that all eligible South Africans have the identity documents they need to exercise their democratic rights.

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“This weekend presents an important opportunity for South Africans to ensure that they are ready to exercise one of their most fundamental democratic rights, said the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber.

“By extending operating hours nationwide during Voter Registration Weekend, Home Affairs is making it easier for citizens to obtain the Smart ID cards they need to register and participate in our democracy.

“We encourage all South Africans who still need a Smart ID card, or who have been notified that their Smart ID Card is ready for collection, to make use of this opportunity.

“An ID is not only essential for participating in our democracy, but also serves as a gateway to opportunities, services and economic participation.

“Through initiatives such as this, and as part of our broader Home Affairs @ home vision, we are bringing services closer to the people while advancing our commitment to delivering dignity for all,” said Schreiber.

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