Home Affairs to open all offices this weekend – Here’s why
If you've been putting off a visit to a Home Affairs office, this weekend could save you time and frustration.
Black News 
South Africans who have been putting off a trip to the Department of Home Affairs will have an extra opportunity this weekend, 20-21 June 2026, as offices across the country extend their operating hours in support of the Electoral Commission of South Africa’s Voter Registration Weekend.
The move comes as the department reveals that more than 370 000 Smart ID Cards are currently sitting uncollected at Home Affairs offices nationwide.
For many citizens, this weekend could be a chance to avoid long delays while ensuring they have the documentation needed to access a range of services – including the ability to register to vote.
A special weekend opening for Home Affairs
The Department of Home Affairs announced that all its offices across South Africa will be open on both Saturday and Sunday.
Citizens are encouraged to use the extended hours to either apply for a Smart ID Card or collect one that has already been processed and is ready for collection.
The special operating schedule forms part of efforts to support the Electoral Commission’s voter registration campaign and to make government services more accessible.
Hundreds of thousands of Smart IDs still waiting
One of the most striking figures released by the department is the number of Smart ID Cards that remain uncollected.
According to Home Affairs, more than 370 000 cards are currently waiting for their owners to pick them up.
That backlog means hundreds of thousands of South Africans have already completed the application process but have yet to collect one of the country’s most important identity documents.
The department has urged those who have received notification that their cards are ready to avoid further delays and visit their nearest office this weekend.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the extended operating hours are intended to help South Africans prepare for voter registration while also improving access to essential government services.
“This weekend presents an important opportunity for South Africans to ensure that they are ready to exercise one of their most fundamental democratic rights,” Schreiber said.
He added that by extending operating hours nationwide during Voter Registration Weekend, Home Affairs is making it easier for citizens to obtain the Smart ID Cards needed to register and participate in the country’s democratic processes.
