Springs Home Affairs open on Youth Day
The Springs Department of Home Affairs (DHA) office will be open on June 16 and 17 for collections of and applications for smart ID cards from 08:00 to 13:00.
The Springs Department of Home Affairs (DHA) office will be open on June 16 and 17 for collections of and applications for smart ID cards from 08:00 to 13:00.
Residents are encouraged to use the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which allows clients to make an electronic booking for certain services (smart cards and passports) at the department.
The department is waging a war on long queues.
Soon, selected home affairs offices will process smart ID and passport applications only for clients who booked an appointment through the BABS.
They will service the pre-booked clients at dedicated counters. The booking system is one of many strategies introduced to fight long queues.
ALSO CHECK: Kwa-Thema also played a role in the June 16 uprising
Why do you need to book a public service?
To reduce long queues and waiting times when applying for smart ID cards and passports. It also minimises the risk of the spread of Covid-19 at DHA offices. The DHA wants to ensure citizens get timeous and efficient service.
If I make a booking, will I be serviced with those without bookings?
Those with bookings are prioritised and will be allowed into the office to follow the normal internal processes.
What happens to the people without bookings? Are they served as ‘walk-ins’?
Yes, they are. However, it is advisable to make a booking so you are guaranteed service on that day during your booked time slot, provided the system is up and running.
Will the system not be open to abuse and lead to people skipping the queue under the pretext of having an appointment?
No, the system prevents the illegal blocking of slots by agents intent on selling them to those in the queue because ID numbers are used to verify clients when they book appointments.
At the office, the manager and supervisors will closely monitor the queues so that all clients are served and treated fairly. All clients are advised to report agents and culprits trying to sell places in the queue.
Can I make a booking even if I do not have a South African ID?
No, the system only allows clients with valid RSA ID numbers to make bookings. Currently, the services offered are for smart ID cards and passports.
If I want to do a death certificate or apply for a full birth certificate, do I need a booking?
No. The services are currently limited to smart ID cards and passport applications.
Can I cancel my appointment?
Yes, after receipt of confirmation of a booking. The system allows clients to cancel or reschedule. Appointment slots are displayed for a client to select a new date.
If I know I will not make my booked slot, can I give it to my friend/ relative?
No. Appointments are not transferable.
