A South African identity card (ID card) is an official government-issued document that serves as proof of a person’s identity and citizenship. In South Africa, you can apply for a smart ID card through the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
WHO CAN APPLY?
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be 16 years or older to apply for your first smart ID card.
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How to Apply for a South African Smart ID Card
The step-by-step application process to apply for the new smart ID card is below;
STEP 1:Â You Can Apply in Two Ways.
Choose one way that suits you best.
AT A HOME AFFAIRS OFFICE
- Visit a Department of Home Affairs (DHA) office that issues smart ID cards.
ONLINE VIA E-HOMEAFFAIRS
- Apply online and book an appointment at a participating bank branch or DHA office;
- Go to ehome.dha.gov.za
- Register and log in.
- Fill out the application form.
- Upload required documents (if needed).
- Book an appointment for biometric capture (fingerprints and photos).
STEP 2: Gather Required Documents
These are all you will need for registration.
FIRST-TIME APPLICANTS (16 YEARS OR OLDER)
- Original birth certificate
- One parent’s ID book/card
- Proof of address (if available)
REPLACEMENT (LOST/STOLEN/DAMAGED):
- Old green ID book or damaged smart ID card
- Affidavit (if your ID is lost or stolen)
STEP 3: Pay the Application Fee
- First-time application: Free
- Replacement (lost/stolen/damaged): R140
- If applying online, you can pay via eHomeAffairs using EFT or bank payment.
STEP 4: Capture Biometrics
- Visit your chosen Home Affairs office or bank branch for fingerprint scanning, a photo, and signature capture.
STEP 5: Collect Your Smart ID Card
- You’ll get an SMS notification when your ID is ready for pickup.
- Collect your ID from the same branch where you applied.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE? Processing time is usually 7 to 14 working days, but it may vary based on location and demand.
