The Department of Home Affairs extended its operating hours from 10 December. Heres what you should know¦The Department of Home Affairs has extended its operating hours. Image: Supplied The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has extended its operating hours by two hours daily for all services. From 10 December to 20 December 2024,  offices will close at 18:00 instead of 16:00.HOME AFFAIRS EXTENDS OPERATING HOURS To ease pressure on its clients, the department has also introduced dedicated counters for collections in large offices that process Smart ID Cards and passports, where space allows.Clients can use the Department of Home Affairs website to book applications or collection appointments before visiting offices. The Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) allows clients to book appointments before Visiting offices. The department also allows clients who cannot book appointments to visit as walk-ins. We would like to urge all clients who have applied for their identification documents and have been waiting for three weeks or more to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents at their convenience,  spokesperson Siya Qoza said.