LIMPOPO – Starting in October 2025, South Africans will find it quicker and easier to apply for or renew a Smart ID card or passport, thanks to a new collaboration between the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), Capitec Bank, and First National Bank (FNB).

The initiative will grow the number of bank branches offering these services from the current 30 to hundreds across the country, reaching both urban and rural areas.

Clients will also soon be able to access some services directly through secure banking apps, cutting down on long queues and travel distances.

H O W   I T   W O R K S   A T   C A P I T E C   B R A N C H E S

• Photo Capture: If you don’t have a suitable ID photo on file, you can take one at a special Smart ID terminal in selected Capitec branches.
• Biometric Verification: Your identity will be verified in real time against the DHA database.
• Collection: You can collect your Smart ID at the same branch within weeks.
• Future Services: Home delivery, app-based functionality, and passport renewals will be added later.

Capitec will start with 10 pilot branches and plans to expand to 100 branches by early 2026.

H O W   I T   W O R K S   A T   F N B   B R A N C H E S

1. Register and Pay

• Go to the Home Affairs website → eChannel → register and complete details

• Log into FNB App or Online Banking to approve payment

• Costs: Smart ID – R140, Passport – R600 (lost passport – R1 200)

• Seniors: free

2. Book Appointment

• Choose branch:
  • Lynnwood (Grove Shopping Mall)
  • Centurion Lifestyle
  • 4 Merchant Place
  • FNB Greenpoint
  • Burgersfort
  • FNB Cornubia
  • FNB The Glen

• Pick date and time, print confirmation

3. Visit Branch

• Bring ID book (or police affidavit if lost/stolen)

• Photos and fingerprints taken in-branch (±15 min)

• Parents must accompany children (passport: both parents; ID: one parent)

4. Collection

• SMS from DHA when ready

• Bring ID book and confirmation of application

Notes

• • Payment only via FNB App/Online Banking (not in-branch)

  • Passport replacement fee applies if lost/stolen while valid

  • Check DHA website under “Notices” for latest rules

Queries about FNB eChannel applications can be directed to the Department of Home Affairs call centre at 080 060 1190.

 W H Y   T H I S   M A T T E R S 

This rollout supports the government’s drive to make vital services more accessible, particularly in underserved rural regions. It also signals the gradual phase-out of the old green ID book, aiming to streamline applications and enhance the safety and security of official documents.

For more information, visit the DHA, Capitec Bank, or FNB websites.