Home Affairs responds to public demand by extending operating hours
An influx of applications for identity documents and passports has seen Home Affairs take action.
In an effort to meet the growing demand for Smart IDs and passports, the Department of Home Affairs has announced a significant measure to improve service efficiency.
As more individuals realise the importance of possessing these crucial identification documents, the Department has taken proactive steps to extend its operating hours.
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According to reports from IOL, the Department of Home Affairs has extended its operating hours from Tuesday until Friday to deal with the influx of applications for identity documents and passports.
This move aims to alleviate the long queues and waiting times that have frustrated citizens across the country.
Obtaining a Smart ID card or passport has long been a time-consuming and challenging process for many South Africans.
The limited operating hours of Home Affairs offices often led to excessively long queues and extensive waiting times.
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These issues not only cause inconvenience, but also hinder individuals from accessing vital services, such as travel, job applications, and financial transactions.
Recognising this widespread frustration, the Department of Home Affairs has decided to address the problem head-on.
The Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi himself has approved a temporary extension of operating times by two hours at front offices from 8am to 5.30pm, according to Department spokesperson Siya Qoza.
"This is to deal with the high demand for Smart ID cards and passport services at home affairs offices," says Qoza
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Main image attribution: iStock/Willem Cronje