Time running out for green ID book

Government is phasing out the green ID book, which will no longer be recognised as a form of identification from March 2028.

The Department of Home Affairs will also cease the production of the ID book from 31 March next year, when the machines that produce this booklet will be permanently shut down and decommissioned.Home Affairs Minister

Dr Leon Schreiber made the official announcement last week.

“Prior to 31 March 2027, the department will enable the remaining cohort of naturalised citizens and permanent residents, as well as South African citizens abroad, to also obtain smart IDs.

“By including these groups that have historically been excluded, we will ensure that – for the first time ever – every eligible person is finally able to obtain a secure smart ID card,” said Schreiber.

“Following the end of green ID book production in March next year, the 14.7 million South African citizens and permanent residents who still hold only this form of ID will have a further 12 months to make the switch to the smart ID.”

First-time applicants, as well as applicants over 60 years of age, will remain exempt from paying the application fee for their smart ID.

The minister pleaded with the millions of citizens who still use the green ID book, to switch before the stipulated deadlines.

“We must now accelerate this progress to finally eliminate this source of fuel for identity theft and illegal immigration.

“That is why we will be rolling out a major nationwide communication campaign to ensure everyone is empowered with the information they need to make the switch.

“I am calling on all South Africans who still have only a green ID book to help combat abuses such as identity theft, financial fraud and illegal immigration by visiting their nearest participating branch immediately to switch to the smart ID,” said Schreiber.

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