A South African Smart ID card is a vital form of identification used to access essential services such as voting, financial transactions, government benefits, and travel within South Africa.

Issued by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), the Smart ID replaces the older green barcoded ID book and offers improved security and digital verification.

This guide will walk you through exactly where and how to apply for your Smart ID, whether online through the official eHomeAffairs portal or in person at a DHA office or participating bank branch.

You’ll also learn what documents are required, how biometric capture works, and what to expect during each step of the process.

What Is a South African Smart ID Card?

The South African Smart ID card is a modern, credit card–sized identity document introduced by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to replace the older green barcoded ID book.

It contains embedded security features and biometric data that allow for faster, more secure identification and verification across government and private services.

The card includes your full name, date of birth, gender, ID number, citizenship status, and a digital chip that stores fingerprint and photo data.

It’s designed to reduce identity theft, streamline service delivery, and align South Africa’s civil registration systems with global digital identity standards.

Key Features:

• Biometrically secured (stores fingerprint and facial data)
• Micro-chipped for digital authentication
• Durable and tamper-resistant plastic card
• Recognised across government, banking, and legal institutions

The Smart ID is compulsory for all South African citizens aged 16 and older.

It is not only a proof of identity but also a required document for many life milestones, from opening a bank account to registering for matric exams or applying for a passport.

Who Qualifies for a Smart ID?

The South African Smart ID card is available to all South African citizens aged 16 years and older.

It is issued by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) as the official form of identification and is gradually replacing the older green barcoded ID books.

You qualify for a Smart ID if:

• You are a South African citizen by birth, descent, or naturalisation.
• You are 16 years of age or older and applying for your first ID.
• You are replacing a lost, stolen, damaged, or outdated green ID book.
• You need to update personal details such as your name, surname, or marital status on your ID.

You do not qualify if:

• You are a permanent resident (non-citizens receive a separate identification document).
• You are a minor under the age of 16.
• You do not have the required documentation to verify your citizenship status.

Note: First-time applicants under the age of 18 receive their Smart ID free of charge, while replacement or reissue requests typically incur a fee.

For South Africans living abroad, Smart ID applications must be made at a South African embassy or consulate, as the online system is only accessible within South Africa.

Where Can I Apply for a Smart ID?

South African citizens can apply for a Smart ID card through several official channels, depending on their location and eligibility.

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) provides both online and in-person options to simplify the application process.

1. Online via eHomeAffairs Portal

The fastest and most convenient option is to apply online through the official eHomeAffairs portal: https://ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairs.

This system allows citizens to:

• Complete the Smart ID application form digitally.
• Upload supporting documents.
• Schedule an appointment for biometric data capture.
• Choose a preferred branch — either a DHA office or participating bank.

The online application is only available to individuals physically located in South Africa. Your IP address and location will be verified during registration.

2. Department of Home Affairs Offices

If you prefer to apply in person or do not have access to online services, you can visit your nearest DHA office.

Walk-ins are accepted at many branches, though booking an appointment is strongly recommended due to long wait times and high demand in metropolitan areas.

You will need to:

• Complete a paper or digital form on site.
• Present the required documents.
• Complete biometric capture during your visit.

3. Selected Bank Branches (for Biometric Capture Only)

After submitting an application via eHomeAffairs, you can opt to complete your biometric capture at a participating bank branch, provided you bank with one of the approved institutions.

As of 2024, participating banks include:

• ABSA
• FNB
• Nedbank
• Standard Bank

Appointments at bank branches must be booked through the eHomeAffairs platform, and services are only available to clients of the respective bank.

Not all branches offer this service, so availability depends on your location.

4. South African Embassies and Consulates (for Applicants Abroad)

If you live outside South Africa, you must apply for your Smart ID through the nearest South African embassy or consulate.

Online applications are not available internationally.

Processing times abroad may vary significantly, often taking several weeks or months.

How Do I Apply Online with eHomeAffairs?

Applying online through the eHomeAffairs portal is the most efficient way to begin the Smart ID application process, but it still requires an in-person appointment for biometric verification.

The system is only available to South African citizens located within South Africa.

To apply online, follow these steps:

1. Register an Account
   Go to https://ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairs and create a profile using your ID number and a valid email address. You will need to create a password and confirm your account via email.
2. Complete the Application Form
   Log in to your account and fill out the Smart ID application form. This includes personal details such as your full name, ID number, gender, contact information, and address. Double-check for accuracy before proceeding.
3. Upload Supporting Documents
   If you are applying for a replacement or reissue, you may be prompted to upload scanned copies of supporting documents. First-time applicants generally do not need to upload documents unless specifically requested.
4. Select a Branch for Biometric Capture
   You will be asked to select a preferred location for biometric capture. Options include a local Department of Home Affairs office or a participating bank branch (if you are a customer at one of the partner banks). Available time slots will be shown during this step.
5. Make a Payment (if applicable)
   For replacement or reissue applications, a payment of R140 is required. You can pay using internet banking via the eHomeAffairs portal. First-time applicants under 18 years old do not pay a fee.
6. Download Confirmation and Appointment Slip
   Once your application is submitted and payment is confirmed, download your appointment confirmation. This document must be presented when attending your biometric appointment.
7. Attend Your Biometric Appointment
   On your scheduled day, go to your selected branch to complete biometric capture. You’ll provide fingerprints, a digital photo, and a signature.

What Documents Are Required?

To successfully apply for a South African Smart ID card, you need to provide specific documents that confirm your identity and citizenship.

The exact requirements may vary depending on whether you are applying for the first time or replacing an existing ID.

For First-Time Applicants (Age 16 and Older)

If you are applying for your Smart ID for the first time, you will need:

• Original birth certificate (unabridged, if born after 1993)
• Proof of residence (e.g. utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement)
• If under 18: Presence of a parent or legal guardian with their ID

No payment is required for first-time applicants under 18.

For Replacement or Reissue

If you are replacing a lost, stolen, damaged, or outdated ID, you must provide:

• Original green barcoded ID book or previous Smart ID card (if available)
• Affidavit from the SAPS if your ID was lost or stolen
• Proof of residence
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree, if your name has changed

For Name or Detail Changes

To update personal details (e.g. surname change due to marriage), include:

• Supporting legal documents (such as marriage certificate, court order, or deed poll)
• Proof of the original ID (green ID book or Smart ID card)

All supporting documents must be originals or certified copies no older than three months.

Failure to present valid documentation may result in your application being delayed or rejected.

Where Do I Complete Biometric Capture?

Biometric capture is a mandatory step in the Smart ID application process and cannot be completed online. It involves collecting your fingerprints, digital photograph, and signature to verify your identity.

This information is securely stored on the chip embedded in your Smart ID card.

You can complete biometric capture at one of the following locations:

1. Department of Home Affairs Offices

All DHA offices nationwide are equipped to handle biometric data collection. Once you’ve submitted your application (online or in person), you’ll attend your appointment at the selected DHA branch.

Biometric capture is usually done during the same visit, although some offices may schedule it separately based on capacity.

2. Participating Bank Branches

If you applied via the eHomeAffairs portal, you may be eligible to complete biometric capture at a partner bank, provided you are a client of that bank. This option is typically faster and more organised than DHA offices.

As of 2024, approved banks offering this service include:

• ABSA
• FNB
• Nedbank
• Standard Bank

This service is available by appointment only, and booking must be made through your eHomeAffairs profile.

Not all branches participate, so check availability when selecting your location during the application process.

Tip: Bank branches are often more efficient and have shorter queues than DHA offices. However, they only serve their own customers and require online pre-booking.

How Do I Collect My Smart ID Card?

Once your Smart ID application has been processed and approved, the Department of Home Affairs will notify you that your card is ready for collection.

The notification is usually sent via SMS to the mobile number you provided during your application.

You must collect your Smart ID in person at the same location where you completed your biometric capture, whether at a DHA office or a participating bank branch.

What to Bring When Collecting:

• Your original collection receipt or appointment confirmation slip
• Your green barcoded ID book (if replacing it), or your reference number for first-time applicants
• Any additional documents requested in your SMS notification

Collection must be done by the applicant in person. The Department of Home Affairs does not allow third-party collection under any circumstances, as final biometric verification is often required upon delivery.

How Long Does It Take?

Processing and card production typically take 7 to 14 working days, but may be longer during peak periods or in rural areas.

For applicants living abroad, the process can take several weeks to months, depending on the consulate and shipping logistics.

Status Tracking: You can check the status of your Smart ID card online through your eHomeAffairs profile or by contacting the DHA office where you applied.

Common Questions

In Conclusion

Applying for a South African Smart ID card is an essential step in securing your legal identity and gaining access to public and financial services.

Whether you're applying for the first time or replacing an old document, understanding where and how to apply, and what documents you need, will ensure a smoother, faster process.

The most efficient way to apply is through the eHomeAffairs portal, supported by biometric capture at either a DHA office or a partner bank branch.

For South Africans living abroad, applications must go through a South African embassy or consulate, with additional processing time.

By following the correct steps and preparing your documents in advance, you can avoid delays and receive your Smart ID card with minimal hassle.

Always double-check your details during the application process and monitor your application status until collection.