POLOKWANE – The Department of Home Affairs began issuing the smart card IDs on 1 February 2014. These cards will eventually replace the green barcoded ID book.

In the past few days, a message has been circulating on social media stating the life span of the old green ID book will come to an end on 31 March 2018.

However, on Monday, 20 Novemeber, the Department issued a statement on their Facebook page stating this to be untrue.

“No such announcement has been made by the Department. We wish to make it clear that the green barcoded ID book remains a legal form of identification,” says Thabo Mokgola, communications.

Mokgola continues saying that the Department has developed a plan to systematically phase out the green ID book.

“To this end, we call on South Africans to apply for Smart ID cards at any of the 180 offices that are equipped with the Live Capture System.”

In addition, the Department has established a partnership with FNB, Standard Bank, Nedbank and ABSA to create an online portal where clients can lodge their application without visiting a Home Affairs office. To apply, visit the Home Affairs website and click on the eHomeAffairs icon.

Requirements when applying for the new ID Smart card:

First time issuance of a smart ID card (Youth that are 16 years and above):

• Birth certificate.
• Certified copy of one of the parent/legal guardian/informant’s identity document.
• Death certificate or certified copy if parents are deceased.
• Proof of residence (where it is available) or provide residential address.
• Free of charge.

First time issuance of a smart ID card (pensioners who are 60 years and above):

• Green bar-coded identity document/affidavit in case the identity document is lost.
• Proof of residence (where it is available) or provide residential address.
• Marriage certificate, if married (for marriage verification status).
• Divorce decree, if divorced (for divorce verification status).
• Free of charge.

First time issuance of a smart ID card (Other citizens):

• Green bar-coded identity document/affidavit in case the identity document is lost.
• Proof of residence (where it is available) or provide residential address.
• Marriage certificate, if married (for marriage verification status).
• Divorce decree, if divorced (for divorce verification status).
• A fee of R140 will be required.

How to apply

Step 1: Go on to the e-Home Affairs website and register. To register, you will need to:

• Complete personal details;
• Create a password, and;
• Answer various questions for security purposes.

Step 2: You will receive an OTP (one-time pin) to confirm your cellphone number. Enter it in, and click submit.

Step 3: You will receive another OTP to login to your profile.

Step 4: Complete your application form for a smart ID card. The fields marked in red are mandatory.

Step 5: It is optional to upload the listed, supporting documents. The originals will be required when visiting a bank branch.

Step 6: You can make an online payment or choose to pay at a branch of a bank. An online payment means you need to log on to your bank’s payment system to complete the transfer. The smart ID card costs R140.

Step 7: Book a slot at a bank that has the Home Affairs service available for your biometrics to be captured. But remember:

• Booking an appointment is needed for a visit to a bank.
• No booking is needed if you are going to a Home Affairs office.

Step 8: Print out your confirmation letter.

Step 9: Remember to take your confirmation letter and your green barcoded ID book when going to the bank to capture your biometrics.

Step 10: You will receive a SMS notifying when your card is ready for collection at the bank.

Source: Department of Home Affairs

maretha@nmgroup.co.za