You can skip the notoriously long waits at Home Affairs by using the Branch Appointment Booking System, which helps minimize queues and streamline services.

The Branch Appointment Booking System(BABS) makes it easier to avoid the long queues at Home Affairs. Image: Nokulunga Majola
Did you know Home Affairs has simplified access to its services through the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS)? This system aims to reduce long queues and improve efficiency. Here’s how you can benefit from booking an appointment online.

Using the Online Booking System
The BABS system offers quick and easy appointment scheduling. To book, visit www.dha.gov.za and click on the BABS link. This platform allows citizens to schedule visits to selected Home Affairs branches, ensuring streamlined service delivery.

Why Use BABS?
Home Affairs encourages everyone to use the online booking system. Soon, some offices will only process smart ID and passport applications for clients with pre-booked appointments. By booking ahead, you avoid long queues and get served at dedicated counters, making your visit more efficient.

Reducing Long Queues
While the BABS system is a great idea to alleviate the long wait, the long queues may soon be a thing of the past.
On 30 September, Minister Leon Schreiber unveiled a five-year strategic plan to transform the department into a digital-first organisation by 2029.

This plan focuses on reducing in-person visits and bringing Home Affairs services directly to citizens.
Introducing Home Affairs @ Home
The South African Government envisions a future where you no longer need to visit Home Affairs in person. The new initiative, called Home Affairs @Home, aims to eliminate the inconvenience of long queues.

Minister Leon Schreiber highlighted that services will become fully automated and available online. “Rather than going to Home Affairs, our vision under the Government of National Unity is to bring Home Affairs to you,” he stated.

How Will the Digital Service Work?
Routine services, such as applying for IDs, passports, and certificates, will be accessible through a secure, biometrics-linked online platform. Similar to systems used by banks and SARS, this platform will automate application processing. Human intervention will only be required in exceptional cases.

Initially, approved documents will be shipped directly to clients locally and internationally. Eventually, they will be accessible digitally via a secure profile or a mobile wallet app.

A Secure Future
Minister Schreiber emphasised that Home Affairs @ Home will restore integrity to South Africa’s national security. Using biometric technology similar to that securing smartphones and online banking, the system will effectively prevent identity fraud.

Modernising Services
Home Affairs is making significant strides toward modernising its services. By booking appointments online through BABS and embracing upcoming digital initiatives, you can enjoy faster, more secure, and more convenient service.