‘Online’ passports

WHILE mainstream media reports indicate that passport applicants can apply for their documents online, the Department of Home Affairs confirmed today that "online" refers to a new system upgrade that will see home affairs employees capturing data live onto a computer system in their offices, instead of filling out forms. "There has been alot of confusion around this issue. The applicant will still have to go to the home affairs department where their details will be taken electronically. Their information will be captured while they are there into an online computer programme,” explained Vusi Mkhize, acting deputy director general civic services. "It does not mean that the individual can apply for a passport on his home computer," he said. Melody Brandon (melodyb@nowmedia.co.za)