The Department of Home Affairs wants to phase out green barcoded ID books in South Africa to limit widespread ID fraud and identity theft.

It warned South Africans who still use green ID books and who have not upgraded to smart ID cards that they are at risk of having their identities stolen.

Many South Africans are delaying the switch to smart ID cards due to the challenges often associated with Home Affairs.

The department’s offices are known for inefficiencies, including long queues, inconsistent service, unhelpful staff, and frequent system outages.

Last month, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber unveiled a new five-year strategic vision to make his department digital-first.

This digital transformation aims to make it easier for South Africans to engage with the Department of Home Affairs and obtain what they need.

Named Home Affairs @ home, Schreiber wants to enable people to access most services online.

“Over the next five years, all of the department’s services must become fully automated, digitised, and offered online,” Schreiber said.

In short, South Africans will soon be able to renew passports or apply for smart IDs entirely online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to Home Affairs offices.

Schreiber shared plans to implement online systems similar to those used by banks and SARS, allowing people to access civic services like ID, passport, and certificate applications through a secure, biometrically linked platform.

Smart IDs, passports, and other documents will be delivered directly to applicants, with no office visit required.

This service will be available both locally and abroad. Additionally, the minister plans to make vital documents accessible digitally through a secure online profile and a mobile wallet app for added convenience.

According to reports, Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza said the goal is to issue 2.5 million smart ID cards this financial year.

However, despite this drive, the Department of Home Affairs is not issuing enough smart IDs to replace green ID books rapidly.

The slow pace means green ID books will likely remain valid for many years in South Africa, allowing many people to wait for the new online system to kick in before applying.

The number of bank branches offering smart ID applications is set to double, making it easier for South Africans to replace their green ID books.