1.4 Million South Africans Now Eligible for Smart IDs as Home Affairs Expands Access
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber has announced a significant expansion of Smart ID eligibility, with 1.4 million naturalised citizens and permanent residents now able to apply for the secure identification document.
Digital Transformation Milestone
The minister revealed on Sunday (11 May) that eligible individuals can now apply through the e-Home Affairs platform, marking a major step in the department’s digital transformation journey. Applications will initially be processed for visa-exempt countries before expanding to other nationalities.
“This is a victory for social inclusion,” Schreiber emphasized. “These citizens and lawful residents were previously excluded from the Smart ID system and restricted to the vulnerable green ID book.”
Overcoming Previous Challenges
The department had previously attempted to open Smart ID processing for these groups but faced technical hurdles that forced a temporary suspension. Some applicants accessed the system through an invite-only manual process, creating frustration among those unable to obtain the modern identification.
“They can now get the same secure ID document as all other eligible people,” Schreiber confirmed. “This includes access to any Home Affairs office and full use of e-Home Affairs services.”
Phasing Out the Green ID Book
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber
The expansion represents a strategic move toward phasing out the traditional green ID book, which Schreiber described as a “victory for national security.” The department’s Strategic Plan through 2030 outlines ambitious goals to achieve universal Smart ID enrollment by 2029, with complete discontinuation of green ID books targeted for approximately 2027.
Expanding Access Points
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) plans to significantly increase access points for Smart ID services, including:
- Modernizing more Home Affairs offices
- Expanding to 1,000 bank branches within five years
- Adding 100 new bank branch locations by end of 2025
- Developing banking app integration for home-based services
The Banking Association of South Africa is currently in discussions with the DHA to finalize the necessary service level agreements for these expansions.
Source: BusinessTech