The Department of Home Affairs has called on South Africans whose identity documents were blocked before November 2022 to submit representations before 10 July 2026, or risk permanent cancellation of their ID numbers.
In a government notice issued on 9 June 2026, the Department said the intervention is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the National Population Register while ensuring that affected citizens have an opportunity to restore their legal status.
Deadline and Process
Citizens with blocked IDs must visit any Department of Home Affairs front office in person before 10 July 2026. The six-week period is final, and no extensions will be granted.
At the DHA office, individuals are required to provide both written and oral representations explaining why their ID, which correctly reflects their personal particulars, should not have been blocked and therefore should not be cancelled.
“Failure to submit the required supporting documents within this six-week period will result in the Department of Home Affairs proceeding with the cancellation of your identity number without further notice,” the Department warned.
Required Supporting Documents
To support their case, affected persons should bring original or certified copies of documents confirming identity or legal status. These may include:
– Original birth certificate or handwritten birth certificate
– Original clinic card or confirmation of birth
– Copy of hospital register or proof of birth- Parents’ IDs or reference books
– Death certificate, where applicable- Any other document that confirms identity or legal status
Why IDs Were Blocked
Home Affairs said IDs were blocked prior to November 2022 as part of efforts to address discrepancies and protect the National Population Register from fraud and duplication. The current process allows genuine citizens to have their status rectified.
Citizens are urged not to delay. Visit your nearest DHA office as soon as possible to avoid loss of legal identity, which affects access to grants, banking, employment, and other essential services.
For office locations and operating hours, http://www.dha.gov.za
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