South Africans who need to apply for Smart IDs or passports during the busy year-end period are receiving some helpful news. The Department of Home Affairs has announced that certain branches will extend their operating hours to help more people process their documents before the holiday travel season begins.
During two specific periods from 8 to 19 December 2025 and 5 to 16 January 2026 the offices that process Smart IDs & passports will close at 18:00 instead of the standard 16:00. This change provides practical relief when people are managing work commitments & school holidays while preparing for festive season travel.
Updated Schedule: Extended Smart ID & Passport Office Hours (Quick Table)
| Category | Standard Hours | New Extended Hours | Active Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart ID & Passport Service Centres | 08:00–16:00 | 08:00–19:00 | 10–21 December 2025, 6–18 January 2026 |
| Appointment / Access Method | Online booking via BABS | Walk-in facility available | Both systems will operate simultaneously |
Why South Africa Is Increasing Operating Hours This Festive Season
Anyone who has waited in line at a Home Affairs office understands how crowded these places become during December. Minister Dr Leon Schreiber explained that the plan is straightforward: provide citizens with additional time to submit applications or pick up their documents before the start of the new year.
He mentioned that separate collection counters now exist so people who have already submitted their applications can simply walk in & collect their Smart ID or passport without spending several hours waiting. This decision serves a purpose beyond making things easier for people.
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It addresses a larger issue that the country needs to resolve.
The Identification Gap: Millions Still Without Smart IDs
Home Affairs has disclosed a concerning statistic. Over 4.4 million South Africans above the age of 16 remain without any identification document.
They possess neither the old green ID book nor the modern Smart ID card. This situation leaves millions unable to obtain essential services or open bank accounts. They also cannot apply for employment opportunities.
The problem extends across the entire nation and affects both rural communities and urban centers. Meanwhile the department aims to discontinue the green ID book completely. However a significant obstacle remains because approximately 16 million of these documents are still in circulation.
The transition process clearly has a long way to go before completion.
Green ID Books: Why They Are Still Valid and Not Ending Soon
Schreiber previously stated that the government should stop issuing new green ID books in 2026 but this does not make existing documents invalid right away. A complete transition can only occur once every citizen has access to a Smart ID card, and current production capacity falls short of this requirement.
The Government Printing Works produces approximately 3.6 million Smart IDs each year and could potentially manufacture between 4 and 5 million under optimal circumstances.
Even with maximum production levels during 2026 and 2027, the department projects that roughly 1 million green ID books will remain in use by March 2028. The complete elimination of green ID books will likely extend into late 2028 or possibly later.
Home Affairs @ Home: Government’s Plan for Remote ID Services
The department is expanding its Home Affairs @ Home project to reduce the strain on physical branches. The goal is straightforward: minimize the number of people who need to visit in person.
A key element of this strategy involves growing partnerships with banks that participate in the program. This enables customers to submit applications for Smart IDs and passports without visiting a government office.
When implemented properly this approach could allow staff members to concentrate their efforts on rural areas and underserved communities where people require the most assistance.
Important Steps for Citizens Applying for Smart IDs or Passports
If you are planning travel or just want to avoid last-minute stress these extended hours might be your best option. Here is the simplest approach:
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Successfully Apply for Your Smart ID or Passport
Go to the Home Affairs website and book a slot using the Branch Appointment Booking System known as BABS.
If you cannot find an available slot you can still walk in without an appointment but you should arrive early.
When your Smart ID or passport is ready for collection bring your receipt and go to the collection counters because they usually move faster than other service points.
You should check the branch lists before you go since not every office provides extended operating hours.
