A major breakthrough is coming for South Africans applying for smart ID cards and passports — and it starts with your bank. South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, has confirmed a newly signed agreement that will allow residents to apply for these essential documents through banking apps and more bank branches.
The New Agreement That Changes Everything
This inter-departmental collaboration involves the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), the Border Management Agency (BMA), Government Printing Works (GPW), and the South African Revenue Service (SARS). According to DHA, the new agreement will revolutionise government services using SARS’s existing digital capacity.
Here’s what South Africans can expect from this development:
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Smart ID and passport services available via banking apps
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Wider access at hundreds of additional bank branches
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Courier delivery options for important documents
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Digital immigration processes through a new e-travel system
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Upgraded systems at all major entry ports
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Smart IDs available to naturalised citizens and permanent residents
Getting Rid of the Green ID Book
Schreiber made it clear — the goal is to completely phase out South Africa’s green barcoded ID books. However, this can only happen when all citizens, including naturalised and permanent residents, have equal access to smart IDs.
Currently, around 18 million people still need to be issued a smart ID card. Schreiber revealed that while the original 2025 target was to issue 2.5 million smart IDs, the government is now set to hit 3.6 million — a positive sign of momentum.
Integration with Banks Will Speed Up Access
In the past, Home Affairs would set up a separate kiosk inside bank branches with its own technology and officials — a method Schreiber called inefficient. Now, with this new agreement, DHA services will integrate directly with bank systems, streamlining the process and cutting wait times.
This integration is a crucial step toward the government’s ultimate goal: ensuring that all citizens can access digital ID services before the 2029 national and provincial elections.
Why Smart IDs Are a Priority
The green ID book has long been flagged as a security risk. Fraud detection reports show that smart IDs are significantly more secure. Schreiber emphasised that a fully digitised national ID system would follow once the smart ID rollout reaches full scale.
By doing this, South Africa hopes to shift into a modern, fraud-resistant identification system in time for the next national elections.
FAQs
What is the main benefit of the new DHA agreement with banks?
It allows South Africans to apply for smart ID cards and passports through banking apps and more bank branches, making the process more accessible and efficient.
Can naturalised citizens and permanent residents get smart IDs now?
Yes. The new agreement ensures that smart ID services will be expanded to include both naturalised citizens and permanent residents.
When will the green barcoded ID book be phased out?
The green ID book will be phased out once all South Africans have access to the smart ID card. This could take around five years based on the current rate of issuance.
Will I still need to visit a Home Affairs office to collect my ID?
No. Under the new system, courier delivery options will be introduced so citizens can receive documents without going to a DHA office.
When is the digital ID system expected to be fully implemented?
The target is to roll out a fully functional digital ID system before the 2029 national and provincial elections.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.