Where to Get a Smart ID Card in South Africa

Applying for a Smart ID card in South Africa has become much easier thanks to digital services offered by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and participating banks.

The process is now largely paperless, meaning applicants do not need to bring printed photographs or complete lengthy paper forms.

Apply at a Home Affairs Office

South Africans can apply for a Smart ID card at Department of Home Affairs offices equipped with a Live Capture system.

These offices capture your photograph, fingerprints and signature electronically as part of the application process.

Book an Appointment

To avoid long queues, applicants are encouraged to use the DHA’s Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) to reserve a date and time slot before visiting.

Walk-In Applications

Walk-ins are still accepted at many offices, but waiting times can be significantly longer.

Apply Through Participating Banks

More than 110 bank branches across South Africa now offer Smart ID application services through partnerships with the Department of Home Affairs.

These services continue to expand across the country’s major banking groups.

Capitec Bank

Capitec offers Smart ID services through Self-Service Terminals (SSTs) located in selected branches.

No appointment is required.

The service currently supports:

• Smart ID replacements
• Green ID book conversions

The service does not currently support first-time Smart ID applications.

Standard Bank

Existing Standard Bank clients can apply for:

• Smart ID replacements
• Green ID book conversions

Applications begin through the eHomeAffairs Portal before visiting a selected branch for biometric verification.

FNB

FNB customers must:

1. Register on the eHomeAffairs platform.
2. Complete payment through FNB Online Banking.
3. Book a biometric appointment at a participating FNB branch.

Other Participating Banks

Additional banks expanding Smart ID services include:

• Absa
• Nedbank
• African Bank
• Discovery Bank
• Old Mutual Bank

Availability varies by branch and region.

What Does a Smart ID Card Cost?

The standard Smart ID card application fee is R140.

Additional fees may apply at some bank branches.

For example:

• Capitec charges a R10 convenience fee, bringing the total to R150.

Who Qualifies for Free Applications?

Some applicants qualify for free Smart ID cards:

• First-time applicants turning 16 years old.
• Certain senior citizens at qualifying locations.

What You Need to Bring

When applying, you should bring:

• Your green barcoded ID book if converting to a Smart ID card.
• A police affidavit if your ID was lost or stolen.

First-Time Applicants

South Africans applying for their first ID at age 16 or older are generally required to apply through a Department of Home Affairs office.

Applicants may need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian, depending on the circumstances of the application.

Smart ID Applications Continue to Expand

As the Department of Home Affairs continues rolling out digital services and automated systems, applying for a Smart ID card is becoming faster and more accessible.

Whether you choose a Home Affairs office or a participating bank branch, the process is designed to reduce paperwork and streamline applications for South Africans.

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