Beating Home Affairs queues is still difficult even though you can do applications online
"That's when the problem starts. You queue for hours - sometimes even days and have to take time off work. It is frustrating."
Courier readers are skeptical that claims by Home Affairs that the long queues at Home Affairs offices can be beaten by going to eHomeAffairs to help make the change over from the green barcoded identification document (ID) books to the Smartcard ID a lot easier.
Home Affairs says the system will enable South African-born citizens to apply for a Smart ID Card and/or passport online.
Courier readers reacted by saying that even if they go online, applicants must still go to the offices on Willson Street and queue up to capture and verification of your biometric details such as photos, fingerprints and a signature.
“That’s when the problem starts. You queue for hours – sometimes even days and have to take time off work. It is frustrating,” said one resident, Michelle Willis.
Gary, who declined to give a surname, said he had done an application online but when he went to the offices for fingerprinting etc. he had to queue for two days virtually.
“It would be good if the offices had more staff and even volunteers who could be there on Saturdays. I work out of town and come back to Dundee at about 5.30pm daily and by then the offices are closed.”
Meantime if you wish, go the eHomeAffairs site where you can:
• Submit applications online.
• Upload supporting documents.
• Make online payments.
• And schedule a booking to visit a Home Affairs enabled bank office.
No appointment is required to visit any Home Affairs office. DO first read the disclaimer. The site has flexible features and promises a safe and secure online environment.
eHomeAffairs allows you to complete your application and save it should you wish to submit it at a later stage.
