In what officials describe as one of the biggest reforms in the department’s history, Home Affairs has officially launched a new digital partnership with South Africa’s banking sector so you can apply for Smart ID cards at selected bank branches.

The first branches went live this week, marking the start of a nationwide rollout designed to bring government services closer to communities.

This will eventually reduce the long queues that we all associate with Home Affairs offices!

Apply for your Smart ID

The new system forms part of the department’s ‘Home Affairs @ home’ reform programme, which modernises civic services through digital technology.

Participating banks connect directly to Home Affairs systems through a secure digital gateway.

This means applications can be processed within minutes inside the bank’s own service environment, without filling out paperwork or making an online booking beforehand.

The move is particularly important because around 16 million South Africans still use the green ID book, which has long been considered vulnerable to fraud.

According to Home Affairs, the process for eligible applicants can take just 5 to 10 minutes.

The system will initially focus on two services:

1. Converting the old green barcoded ID book to a Smart ID card
2. Re-issuing an existing Smart ID

The first branches have already gone live, with another in the final stages of testing. More branches will be added throughout the year as the system expands.

What’s coming next?

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said the new system represents a major step in transforming public services.

Instead of travelling long distances to one of the country’s 349 Home Affairs offices, services will be available in communities through secure digital channels. The long-term goal is 1 000 participating bank branches across South Africa by 2029.

Once the system stabilises, the range of services will expand during 2026 to include:

· First-time Smart ID applications
· Passport applications
· Courier delivery of documents
· Applications through banking apps

To find the nearest participating branch and track new rollouts, visit https://www.dha.gov.za/banks

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