South Africans can now enjoy a more convenient way to apply for their smart ID cards and passports—right from their banking apps. This transformation follows a major agreement between the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and several key government and financial institutions.
The rollout begins in May 2025, and it’s set to completely reshape how citizens access essential identification services across the country.
What the New Agreement Means
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber confirmed a new partnership involving:
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Department of Home Affairs (DHA)
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Border Management Agency (BMA)
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Government Printing Works (GPW)
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South African Revenue Service (SARS)
This agreement leverages SARS’s digital infrastructure to bring identity and passport services to banking apps and hundreds of new bank branches nationwide.
Here’s what South Africans can expect starting May 2025:
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Smart ID and passport applications directly through mobile banking
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Courier delivery of official documents to your doorstep
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Increased access to services in remote and urban areas
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Digital immigration and e-travel integration
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Expanded smart ID access for naturalised citizens and permanent residents
Replacing the Green ID Book
The goal is to completely phase out the green barcoded ID book, which has been flagged as a security risk. The new system ensures that all citizens—regardless of how they obtained their status—can get a smart ID card.
Currently, around 18 million people still need to transition to smart IDs. The government initially planned to issue 2.5 million cards in 2025, but this has now increased to 3.6 million, indicating strong progress.
Faster Services Through Banking Systems
Previously, DHA officials would be stationed at kiosks inside certain bank branches, which slowed down service delivery. With the new system, banks will be fully integrated with DHA platforms, allowing direct digital processing for:
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ID card applications
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Passport renewals
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Document delivery tracking
This change aims to cut wait times and reduce office visits, bringing government services directly to citizens.
Why South Africa Is Prioritising Smart IDs
The smart ID card is far more secure and tamper-proof than the older green book. Fraud statistics show a much lower risk with digital IDs, which is crucial for voting security and border control.
The long-term plan is to introduce a fully digitised national ID system ahead of the 2029 national elections.
FAQs
What is the benefit of applying for a smart ID via my bank?
You’ll be able to apply for your smart ID or passport directly through your bank’s app or at expanded bank branches, saving time and avoiding long queues at DHA offices.
Can permanent residents and naturalised citizens apply now?
Yes, under the new system, both naturalised citizens and permanent residents will have full access to smart ID card services.
When will the green ID book be completely phased out?
Once every eligible citizen has access to a smart ID, the green barcoded book will be discontinued—estimated within the next five years.
Will I still have to collect my ID from a DHA office?
No. The new agreement introduces courier delivery, allowing documents to be sent straight to your registered home address.
When will South Africa switch to full digital ID systems?
The government aims to have the digital ID system fully operational 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.