KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- South Africa’s Home Affairs will extend Smart ID and passport office hours this Dec and Jan.
- Millions still lack proper ID documents, delaying the shift to Smart ID cards.
- Green ID books expected to phase out slowly, with full replacement likely after 2028.
South Africans trying to apply for Smart IDs or passports during the year-end rush are getting a small but meaningful boost. The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that selected branches will stay open longer, giving more people time to sort out their documents before the holiday travel wave kicks in.
For two peak periods — 8 to 19 December 2025 and 5 to 16 January 2026 — offices that handle Smart IDs and passports will remain open until 18:00, instead of the usual 16:00.
It’s the kind of adjustment that matters when everyone is juggling work, school breaks, and festive travel plans.
South Africa extends Smart ID and passport office hours Quick Table
| Item | Usual Hours | Extended Hours | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart ID & Passport Offices | 08:00–16:00 | 08:00–18:00 | 8–19 Dec 2025, 5–16 Jan 2026 |
| Booking Method | Online via BABS | Walk-ins still allowed | Both options stay open |
Why These Longer Hours Matter
Anyone who has queued outside a Home Affairs branch knows how packed it gets — especially during December. Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the goal is simple: give residents more breathing room to apply or collect their documents before the new year begins.
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He also pointed out that there are now dedicated collection counters, so people who already applied can pop in, grab their Smart ID or passport, and head out without wasting half a day.
But this move isn’t just about convenience. It’s also part of a bigger problem the country is trying to fix.
South Africa’s Big Identification Gap
Home Affairs revealed a worrying number:
More than 4.4 million South Africans over 16 still don’t have any form of ID — neither the old green ID book nor the Smart ID card.
That means millions are unable to access basic services, open bank accounts, or apply for jobs. It’s a challenge that affects every corner of the country, from rural areas to big cities.
At the same time, the department wants to finally phase out the green ID book. But there’s a catch — around 16 million of these books are still out there.
It’s clear the transition is far from over.
Green ID Books Won’t Disappear Overnight
Schreiber has said before that issuing new green ID books should stop in 2026, but that doesn’t mean the document becomes invalid immediately. Full replacement can only happen when every citizen has access to a Smart ID card — and right now, capacity simply isn’t there.
The Government Printing Works currently produces about 3.6 million Smart IDs annually, with the potential to reach somewhere between 4–5 million under ideal conditions.
Even if production hits maximum output in 2026 and 2027, the department estimates that around 1 million green ID books will still be circulating by March 2028.
Realistically, the full phase-out may stretch into late 2028 or beyond.
Home Affairs @ Home: A Long-Term Plan
To ease pressure on physical branches, the department is scaling up its Home Affairs @ Home project. The idea is simple: reduce the need for in-person visits.
One major part of this plan is expanding partnerships with participating banks, allowing customers to apply for Smart IDs and passports without stepping into a government office.
If rolled out effectively, this could free staff to focus on rural and underserved communities — the people who need support the most.
Still, even with these improvements, replacing millions of green ID books will take patience. It’s a national shift that will unfold over several years, not months.
What You Should Do If You Need a Smart ID or Passport
If you’re planning travel or just want to avoid last-minute stress, these extended hours might be your best window.
Here’s the simplest approach:
H3: Step-by-Step Guide
- Go to the Home Affairs website and book a slot through the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS).
- If you can’t find a slot, walk-ins are still accepted — just go early.
- If your Smart ID or passport is ready, bring your receipt and use the collection counters, which are typically faster.
- Check branch lists beforehand, as not all offices offer extended hours.
FAQs
1. Do all Home Affairs branches offer extended hours?
No, only selected offices that process Smart IDs and passports will operate until 18:00.
2. Can I walk in without an appointment?
Yes. Booking helps shorten your wait, but walk-ins are still allowed.
3. Will green ID books still be valid?
Yes, for now. The phase-out will only begin once enough Smart ID cards are produced and distributed.
4. How long does it take to get a Smart ID?
Timelines vary by location, but faster processing is expected during extended hours.
5. Can I apply at a bank instead of Home Affairs?
Yes — participating bank branches allow Smart ID and passport applications, part of the Home Affairs @ Home initiative.
