Applying for a Smart ID card in South Africa is now mostly an online and bank-branch process. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has phased out the green barcoded ID book for new applications, and Smart ID services are available at selected DHA offices and at participating bank branches.
Who can apply for a Smart ID
South African citizens aged 16 and older can apply for a Smart ID card. First-time applicants turning 16 receive the Smart ID automatically — the green ID book is no longer issued to new applicants. Permanent residents from qualifying countries can also apply under the DHA’s phased rollout.
Smart ID application fees
According to the DHA fee position confirmed in a parliamentary reply, first-time Smart ID applications for citizens aged 16 and older are issued free of charge. Replacements and re-issues (lost, stolen, damaged cards or upgrades from the green ID book) cost R140.
The R140 fee is non-refundable. Fees are paid by bank deposit when applying through eHomeAffairs, or in cash at DHA offices.
Where to apply
Smart ID applications are processed at:
- DHA Live Capture-enabled offices
- Participating bank branches: Absa, FNB, Standard Bank, Nedbank, Capitec, Discovery Bank, Investec, African Bank and TymeBank (selected branches)
Bank-branch services are not limited to existing clients of that bank. Anyone with a South African ID number can book a slot at any participating bank branch.
How to apply online
- Register or log in at ehome.dha.gov.za
- Complete the Smart ID application form online
- Pay the R140 fee by internet banking (replacements only)
- Book a biometrics appointment via the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS)
- Attend the appointment for fingerprints, photo and signature capture
- Collect the card from the same office or bank branch once notified
No physical photographs are required — biometrics are captured digitally at the office or bank branch.
How long does a Smart ID take
Smart ID cards are typically ready within 14 working days after biometrics capture. The DHA notifies applicants once the card is ready for collection.
How to check your application status
Send the word ID followed by a space and your 13-digit ID number to 32551. SMS charges of R1 apply.
Applicants can also call the DHA Contact Centre on 0800 60 11 90.
