Smart ID Access Expanded to 1.4 Million South Africans in Major Digital Shift

In a landmark move toward digital inclusion and identity security, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has opened Smart ID applications to 1.4 million naturalised citizens and lawful permanent residents.

Speaking on Sunday, 11 May, Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber confirmed that this long-awaited development will allow these individuals to apply for the Smart ID via the e-Home Affairs platform — marking the beginning of the end for the vulnerable green barcoded ID book.

“This is a major milestone on the digital transformation journey of Home Affairs, which continues to deliver and accelerate,” said Schreiber. “It is a victory for social inclusion, as these citizens and lawful residents were previously excluded from the Smart ID.”

Who Can Apply Now?

Initially, applications will open to individuals from visa-exempt countries, with the department planning a phased expansion to others soon. This phased approach ensures smoother implementation and prevents system overloads.

Previously, access to the Smart ID for these groups was extremely limited due to technical issues and manual-only processing. Some could only obtain the new IDs via invitation and at select Home Affairs branches — a process that many found frustrating and exclusionary.

Now, all eligible individuals can use the same digital channels as South African-born citizens, including e-Home Affairs and any modernised Home Affairs office.

Why This Matters

The shift from the green ID book to Smart ID cards isn’t just about convenience — it’s a national security upgrade.

“This rollout strengthens national security and brings all lawful residents into a secure and modern identity ecosystem,” said Schreiber.

The department’s Strategic Plan to 2030 outlines its intent to completely phase out the green ID book by the mid-term (around 2027). Universal Smart ID enrollment is expected by the end of 2029.

More Access Points Coming

The Department of Home Affairs is also working with the Banking Association of South Africa to expand Smart ID services to bank branches across the country — with a goal of 100 new locations by the end of 2025 and 1,000 by 2030.

Future plans include integrating Smart ID services into banking apps, enabling citizens to manage their identification documents from the comfort of their homes.

A Digital Future for All

This development is part of a broader digital transformation strategy to modernize how South Africans access vital services. By opening Smart ID applications to naturalised citizens and permanent residents, Home Affairs is not only ticking off a major policy commitment but also ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital era.

How to Apply:

• Visit the e-Home Affairs portal

• Create or log into your account

• Follow the steps to apply for a Smart ID

• Schedule a visit to your nearest modernised DHA office (or bank branch, where available)

{Source: BusinessTech}

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