A smart ID card is the current South African identity document, replacing the green bar-coded identity book. Applications require South African citizenship or permanent residence, your existing identity document or birth certificate, and are made at Home Affairs offices and participating bank branches.
Applying at a participating bank branch is generally substantially faster than at a Home Affairs office and is worth checking before joining a queue elsewhere.
Eligibility Requirements at a Glance
Applications are assessed on the following.
- South African citizenship, or permanent residence for the permanent resident card
- Being sixteen years or older for a first application
- Your existing green identity book, where you hold one
- Your birth certificate, for a first application
- Verification of your details against the National Population Register
- Payment of the prescribed fee, where one applies
Documents and Supporting Evidence Required
You will need the following.
- Your existing green bar-coded identity book, where you hold one
- Your birth certificate, for a first application
- A completed application form
- Proof of payment of the prescribed fee where applicable
- A police affidavit and report, where your previous document was lost or stolen
- Supporting documents where your details have changed, such as a marriage certificate
Application Requirements and Steps
Your photograph, fingerprints and signature are captured digitally at the point of application, so you do not need to bring printed photographs.
First applications by sixteen year olds are free of charge, and replacements carry a prescribed fee. Where a card was lost or stolen, a police report is required.
Costs, Processing Times and Key Conditions
Processing times vary and are substantially faster through bank branches than through many Home Affairs offices. You are notified when the card is ready for collection.
The green bar-coded identity book remains valid until the department announces otherwise, but the smart card is the current document and is required for some services.
Collection is generally in person, since the card is handed over against verification of your identity.
Where and How to Apply
Apply at a Home Affairs office or at a participating bank branch. Bank branch appointments can generally be booked online, which avoids queuing.
Government services do not require payment to an agent or a facilitator. Anyone offering to guarantee approval or to speed up an application for a fee is defrauding you. Confirm current requirements, fees and processing times with the Department of Home Affairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I apply for a smart ID card?
At Home Affairs offices and at participating bank branches. Bank branches are generally substantially faster.
Do I need to bring photographs?
No. Your photograph, fingerprints and signature are captured digitally at the point of application.
Is the green ID book still valid?
It remains valid until the department announces otherwise, but the smart card is the current document and is required for some services.
What if my ID was lost or stolen?
A police report and affidavit are required, and a prescribed replacement fee applies.
Confirm current requirements, fees and processing times with the Department of Home Affairs. Browse all government service requirements.