South Africa Department of Home Affairs extends hours for 2026 elections

The South African Department of Home Affairs is extending its front office operating hours to assist citizens in obtaining necessary identification for the Local Government Elections scheduled for November 4, 2026.

From November 2 to November 4, 2026, offices will operate from 08:00 to 18:00. On Election Day, Wednesday, November 4, hours will be further extended from 07:00 to 21:00 to align with the Electoral Commission of South Africa’s voting hours. These measures aim to allow voters to collect completed identity documents, apply for new ones, or obtain Temporary Identity Certificates.

The department is also utilizing its online booking systems, such as the My Home Affairs Online platform, to manage appointments for services like Smart ID cards and passport renewals, helping to reduce queues at participating branches.