Thousands of South Africans whose identity numbers were blocked before November 2022 have been given an opportunity to explain their circumstances and potentially have their records restored as part of a nationwide campaign launched by the Department of Home Affairs.
The department announced that affected individuals have until 10 July 2026 to submit representations explaining why their identity numbers should remain active on the National Population Register.
The initiative forms part of a broader effort to resolve long-standing identity record issues while protecting the accuracy and integrity of South Africa’s population database.
According to Home Affairs, the process is being conducted in line with Section 3 of the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA), which requires individuals to be given an opportunity to make representations before administrative decisions affecting them are finalised.
People whose identity numbers have been blocked are required to visit a Home Affairs office and provide information supporting their case.
More than 2.2 million IDs already restored
Home Affairs said substantial progress has already been made in addressing blocked identity records.
To date, more than 2.2 million identity numbers have been successfully unblocked following verification and administrative review processes.
Many of the blocked records originated from duplicate registrations, unresolved citizenship verification matters or cases where identity details required further investigation.
The department stressed that individuals who fail to respond before the July deadline risk having their identity numbers cancelled once the administrative process has been completed.
Applications must be submitted at Home Affairs offices nationwide, excluding refugee reception centres and bank-based Home Affairs service branches.
Supporting documents encouraged
To assist with verification, affected individuals are encouraged to bring as much supporting documentation as possible when appearing before officials.
Documents that may help confirm a person’s identity, citizenship or legal status include birth certificates, clinic cards, confirmation of birth records, hospital documentation, parents’ identity documents, school records, affidavits, traditional authority letters and other relevant evidence.
Officials will use the information to determine whether the individual qualifies for inclusion on the National Population Register and whether the blocked identity number can be restored.
Home Affairs also warned that investigations may result in the cancellation of identity records in certain cases.
The department said action could be taken if an identity document was improperly issued, obtained through fraud or misrepresentation, contains inaccurate personal information or has been altered, forged, stolen or unlawfully manipulated.
Authorities emphasised that the campaign is intended both to assist legitimate identity holders and to strengthen the reliability of South Africa’s population records.
The department has urged all affected individuals to act promptly and make use of the opportunity before the 10 July deadline.
Source: Department of Home Affairs