Find Out Which Home Affairs Offices Are Open on Saturdays in May 2025
In a move to modernise identity management and improve service delivery, the Department of Home Affairs has extended Saturday office hours at selected branches throughout May 2025. This change is particularly beneficial for naturalised citizens and permanent residents from visa-exempt countries looking to upgrade from the old green barcoded ID book to the secure and tech-savvy smart ID card.
Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or just looking to avoid weekday queues, knowing which Home Affairs branches operate on Saturdays can make your smart ID application process much smoother.
Home Affairs Saturday Operating Hours
To accommodate the anticipated influx of applicants, Home Affairs offices that offer smart ID card services will be open on the following Saturdays in May 2025:
- Saturday, 17 May 2025: 08:00 to 13:00
- Saturday, 24 May 2025: 08:00 to 13:00
- Saturday, 31 May 2025: 08:00 to 13:00
The Department of Home Affairs strongly encourages all eligible individuals to take advantage of these extended hours to avoid long queues and potential delays.
Which Home Affairs Branches Are Open on Saturdays?
While most major Home Affairs offices across South Africa will offer extended hours, it’s essential to check whether your nearest branch is participating. Here’s a list of the key branches confirmed to be open:
- Gauteng:
- Pretoria Central
- Johannesburg CBD
- Randburg
- Soweto
- Kempton Park
- Western Cape:
- Cape Town CBD
- Bellville
- Mitchells Plain
- Paarl
- George
- KwaZulu-Natal:
- Durban Central
- Pietermaritzburg
- Richards Bay
- Newcastle
- Pinetown
- Eastern Cape:
- Port Elizabeth
- East London
- Mthatha
- Queenstown
- Butterworth
- Free State:
- Bloemfontein
- Welkom
- Bethlehem
- Sasolburg
- Harrismith
- Northern Cape:
- Kimberley
- Upington
- Kuruman
- Springbok
- De Aar
- Limpopo:
- Polokwane
- Tzaneen
- Makhado
- Thohoyandou
- Mokopane
- Mpumalanga:
- Nelspruit
- Witbank
- Secunda
- Middelburg
- Ermelo
- North West:
- Rustenburg
- Mahikeng
- Klerksdorp
- Brits
- Potchefstroom
How to Apply for Your Smart ID Card
You can apply for your smart ID card at any of the listed branches, selected bank branches, or online via the eHomeAffairs portal. The process includes:
- Registering and completing the application form online.
- Booking an appointment to visit your chosen branch.
- Bringing your green barcoded ID book and any necessary supporting documents.
- Paying the R140 application fee (senior citizens over 60 are exempt).
Who Qualifies to Apply?
Currently, the smart ID card rollout targets:
- Naturalised citizens and permanent residents from one of the 106 visa-exempt countries.
- Individuals with valid and authentic green barcoded ID books.
Applicants from non-listed countries and first-time applicants will be included in Phase 2 of the rollout, which is still being planned.
Why Upgrade to a Smart ID?
The new smart ID cards are designed to enhance security and streamline identification processes. They are more durable and less prone to identity fraud compared to the old green barcoded ID books. Transitioning to the new system also aligns South Africa with global best practices in identity management.
Final Thoughts
The Department of Home Affairs is stepping up to meet modern needs by offering Saturday services to ensure more citizens can transition to the smart ID system. Make sure to book your appointment via the eHomeAffairs portal to secure your spot and make your application process hassle-free.
With these extended hours, you can now complete your ID upgrade without disrupting your workweek. Don’t miss out—get your smart ID card today!
Also read: 100 New Bank Branches for Smart ID and Passport Applications in SA
