The Department of Home Affairs has extended operating hours at selected offices to handle increased demand during the festive period. From 8 December 2025 to 19 December 2025, and again from 5 January 2026 to 16 January 2026, offices dealing with Smart ID Cards and passports will stay open until 6pm. This adds two hours to the usual schedule, helping South Africans apply for or collect essential documents ahead of travel and gatherings.
Officials designed the change to boost accessibility when services see high usage. Residents should book appointments via the Branch Appointment Booking System on the Home Affairs website for priority. The department will assist walk-ins too, offering options for those unable to plan ahead. These Home Affairs updates focus on delivering efficient identity and travel support.
Withdrawal of 90-Day Visa Exemption
In a separate development, the Department of Home Affairs has withdrawn the 90-day visa exemption for Palestinian ordinary passport holders. An investigation by national intelligence structures revealed deliberate abuse of the exemption by Israeli actors tied to “voluntary emigration” from Gaza. Consultations within the Security Cluster confirmed the findings.
The probe examined two recent charter flights carrying Palestinian passport holders, showing the exemption served relocation purposes rather than tourism or short stays. This misuse also affected the passengers involved. With the withdrawal, the department will process any asylum applications from these travellers. It will honour the exemption’s terms for those not seeking asylum. These Home Affairs updates underscore efforts to prevent policy exploitation.
Official Statements and Responses
Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber addressed the extended hours, emphasising commitment to accessible services. “We remain committed to providing accessible and people-centred services,” he said. He encouraged South Africans to use the longer hours for updating documents and saluted officials for their dedication during the festive season.
On the visa exemption, the Department of Home Affairs issued a statement noting the withdrawal followed confirmed abuse, with no further responses from involved parties mentioned in available sources. No right of reply from Israeli actors or Palestinian representatives appeared in the reports as of 08 December 2025.
