TO improve service delivery and ensure that South Africans have documents ahead of the holiday season, the Department of Home Affairs has announced extended operating hours for the festive season.

Also read: How to apply for an ID

Carli van Wyk, spokesperson for the Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber, said offices will be open two hours longer each day from December 8-19 and again from January 5-16, 2026. During that time, offices will close at 18:00 and not at the usual 16:00, allowing extra time for applications and collections of important documents.

Van Wyk said extended-hour services would only be possible at offices equipped to process the smart ID card and passports.

In order to modernise the service and minimise waiting time, people are encouraged to book their application or collection slots through Branch Appointment Booking System on the official home affairs website. However, walk-ins will not be turned away.

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Schreiber is calling on citizens, especially those that plan to travel, to take advantage of the longer hours.

“We remain committed to providing accessible and people-centred services. With our offices operating on extended hours ahead of and during the festive season, I encourage South Africans to make use of the longer opening hours to ensure that their essential documents are up to date, including travel documents.”

He added that this would go a long way in assisting people to get the documents they need to spend precious time with friends and family, and to prepare for the New Year.

The minister also extended his appreciation for the staff whose hours will be extended during the peak demand of this season.

“I salute the commitment of members of team home affairs who will be working longer hours to ensure that South Africans can enjoy their festive season with friends and family. My message to citizens who have applied for smart ID cards and passports is that they should take this opportunity to collect their documents. We now offer dedicated counters for collections as we continue our journey towards delivering dignity for all,” said Schreiber.

Branches in Durban 

Durban South residents can make use of the following branches:

• The Pavilion Shopping Centre – 111 Jack Martens Dr, Dawncliffe, Westville,
• Department of Home Affairs Prospecton – 3 Prospecton Place, Prospecton

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