PRETORIA, Tuesday 27 October 2026 — The Department of Home Affairs has announced extended operating hours at its offices across South Africa to help eligible voters obtain identity documents ahead of the 4 November local government elections.
The department said all its front offices would remain open for longer on 2 and 3 November, with further extended hours on election day, allowing voters to collect completed identity documents, apply for replacements or obtain temporary identity certificates where applicable.
Extended operating hours confirmed
Home Affairs confirmed the following arrangements:
| Date | Operating hours |
|---|---|
| Monday, 2 November | 08:00–18:00 |
| Tuesday, 3 November | 08:00–18:00 |
| Wednesday, 4 November | 07:00–21:00 |
The election-day arrangements will align with the Electoral Commission of South Africa’s (IEC) voting hours.
The department said the additional operating time was intended to reduce documentation barriers that could prevent eligible voters from participating.
Voters urged to collect outstanding IDs
Home Affairs has appealed to citizens who have already applied for identity documents to collect them before voting.
The department also called on community leaders, stakeholder forums and local organisations to assist residents who still need the documentation required to vote.
Under IEC rules, voters must present an acceptable South African identity document at their registered voting station.
These include a smart ID card, a green barcoded identity book or a valid temporary identity certificate.
Passports, driving licences, student cards and photocopies of identity documents cannot be used to cast a ballot.
Special voting begins on 2 November
The extended Home Affairs hours coincide with the two days allocated for special voting on 2 and 3 November.
The IEC previously announced that more than 2.65 million special vote applications had been approved for the 2026 elections.
Special voting allows qualifying voters to participate before election day, including through approved home visits and voting-station arrangements.
Voters participating in the special voting process must also meet the commission’s identification requirements.
Election access remains a priority
The announcement comes as government departments and the IEC finalise arrangements for the municipal elections.
The Department of Home Affairs has expanded identity-document services through participating bank branches and digital partnerships during 2026, but the latest election-related announcement applies specifically to departmental front offices.
Home Affairs has encouraged eligible voters to resolve outstanding identity-document matters as early as possible rather than waiting until election day.
The extended hours will remain in effect until voting concludes on 4 November.
