The Department of Home Affairs has launched a digital partnership with banks that will allow people to apply for Smart ID cards directly at participating bank branches.
The partnership entered its live operational phase on Sunday.
Through this, South Africans can complete a secure Smart ID application at selected bank branches within five to ten minutes.
The department said on Monday the system allows banks to connect directly to the department’s systems, enabling applications to be processed without completing paper forms or making prior bookings.
The first participating institutions include Capitec Bank and Standard Bank, while First National Bank is in the final phase of testing.
Other banks that joined the partnership are preparing to roll out the service. Initially, the service will allow South African citizens, qualifying naturalised citizens and permanent residents who still hold the green ID book to convert to the Smart ID card. Existing Smart ID holders will also be able to apply for re-issues.
The department plans to expand services through the banking partnership. These are expected to include first-time Smart ID applications, passport services, courier delivery of documents and the ability to apply through banking apps. Find participating branches at dha.gov.za.
