NATIONAL NEWS - Home Affairs has expanded its Smart ID replacement services to 753 bank branches across South Africa, exceeding its target of 750 branches more than four months ahead of schedule.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber announced that more than one million South Africans have already benefited from the digital service, which was introduced in March 2026 as part of the department’s Home Affairs @ home reform programme.
The department had initially set a target of making the service available at 750 bank branches by the end of the 2026/27 financial year. However, the target was reached and exceeded within eight months.
The expansion has increased the number of locations offering Smart ID services from 214 Home Affairs offices to 967 nationwide – an increase of more than 350% in 246 days.
The service allows South Africans to apply for replacement Smart ID cards at participating branches of Absa, Capitec, First National Bank (FNB) and Standard Bank. No prior booking is required, and applications are processed using secure biometric technology, with the process taking approximately five minutes.
Schreiber said the expansion was a significant achievement in improving access to essential government services, particularly for communities that have historically had limited access to Home Affairs facilities.
He added that more banks and additional services would be incorporated into the digital partnership in the coming months.
The initiative also forms part of the department’s longer-term plan to phase out the green barcoded ID book in favour of the more secure Smart ID card, strengthening the country's identification system and helping combat identity fraud.
“An increase in access of over 350% in just 246 days is the fastest service expansion in the department's history,” Schreiber said.
He said the department was continuing to modernise its services through digital innovation and reforms aimed at making Home Affairs more accessible and efficient.
South Africans can find their nearest participating bank branch by visiting myhomeaffairsonline.dha.gov.za. - SAnews.gov.za
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