EXPLAINER | What you need to know as green ID book phase-out looms

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Opens in new windowOpens in new windowOpens in new windowOpens in new windowEnter fullscreen mode displaying this image.ExpandMinster of home affairs Dr Leon Schreiber. Picture: Freddy Mavunda/Business Day Story audio is generated using AI

The department of home affairs is accelerating its Smart ID rollout, with 753 bank branches now offering replacement services as the government moves towards phasing out the green barcoded identity book.

The green ID book will be phased out by March next year, and the department is expanding the uptake of Smart IDs through minister Leon Schreiber’s reform programme, which aims to make services more accessible while reducing pressure on government offices.

Since the digital banking partnership was launched on March 9, more than one-million South Africans have benefited from the service.

The department had initially set a target of making Smart ID replacement services available at 750 bank branches by March 2027. It has exceeded that target more than four months ahead of schedule.

The expansion has increased the number of locations offering Smart ID services from 214 home affairs offices to 967 locations nationwide.

Ministerial spokesperson Carli van Wyk said the rollout was part of efforts to modernise home affairs and make identity documents more accessible.

The department is also encouraging citizens to replace their green ID books with Smart ID cards, which offer better protection against identity theft and fraud, said Van Wyk.

The current walk-in service is available to eligible existing customers of Absa, Capitec, First National Bank and Standard Bank.

“Applicants can use it to replace lost, stolen or damaged Smart ID cards or exchange their green barcoded ID books for Smart ID cards,” said Van Wyk.

First-time ID applications are not yet available through the banking partnership. Those applying for an ID for the first time must continue visiting home affairs offices.

The department plans to extend Smart ID services to first-time applicants, naturalised South African citizens and permanent residents by the end of March 2027.

“No. Applicants do not need to make an online booking or complete an advance application. They can walk into a participating bank branch during its applicable service hours,” said Van Wyk.

He said the process is paperless and uses secure biometric technology to verify applicants’ identities. No paper forms or supporting documents are required for a standard eligible replacement application.

Applicants must appear in person for identity verification and biometric capture.

“The applicable home affairs fee is R140. Applicants should check with their bank whether additional bank-specific charges apply,” said Van Wyk.

People replacing their green ID books can keep the old documents.

Applicants must also follow the collection arrangements provided by the participating bank where they submitted their applications. Secure home delivery is not yet available.

“Yes, but this is part of the next phase of the rollout. Home affairs plans to introduce first-time Smart ID applications, passport applications and renewals, as well as secure home delivery of Smart IDs and passports.”

These services will be introduced in phases and announced officially when ready.

Some bank branches already offer passport services through the older eHomeAffairs appointment system. This must not be confused with the new walk-in digital service.

Home affairs plans to stop issuing green barcoded ID books by the end of March 2027.

The department’s target is to ensure every South African is documented by 2029.

To find the nearest participating branch, visit myhomeaffairsonline.dha.gov.za.

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