How to apply for your smart ID card In South Africa

How to apply for your smart ID card In South Africa

Your South African ID is one of the most important documents used to access services for general purposes and day-to-day activities in society.

The Department of Home Affairs started rolling out the new, more secure smart ID card. 

If you’re still in possession of your green ID book and want to apply for a new Smart ID card, this is what you need to know:

You can get a new ID if:

• You’re a South-African citizen by birth.
• You’re 16 years or older.
• Your ID book has been lost, stolen or damaged.
• Your personal particulars have changed.
• Your citizenship status has changed.
• You’ve have changed your surname (for example, if you get married or divorced).
• You’re are temporarily living abroad and have previously had a South African ID.

Immigrants who have valid permanent residence permits can also get an ID.

The Department of Home Affairs launched their new online platform eHomeAffairs which allows you to skip the long queues and apply for your new smart ID online. The online service allows you to:

• submit application forms online,
• upload supporting documents,
• make online payments, and
• schedule Home Affairs branch visits.

Requirements when applying for a smart ID card

If you’re applying for an ID for the first time (16 years or older) it’s free of charge. You’ll need the following documents when applying:

• Birth certificate.
• Certified copy of 1 of your parents / legal guardian identity document.
• Death certificate of certified copy if your parents are deceased.
• Proof of residence (where it’s available) or provide residential address.

Pensioner (60 years old and above) who are in possession of a green ID book can apply for a smart ID card at no cost.

You’ll need the following:

• Your green barcoded ID / affidavit in case the if is lost.
• Your proof of residence (where it’s available) or provide residential address.
• Your marriage certificate, if married (for marriage verification status).
• Your divorce decree, if divorced (for divorce verification status).

If you’re between the ages of 16 and 59 years of age and in possession of a green ID book or lost your smart ID card, you’ll have to pay R140 when applying for a smart card ID.

You’ll also need:

• your green barcoded ID or an affidavit in case it’s lost,
• proof of residence (where it’s available) or provide residential address,
• your marriage certificate, if married (for marriage verification status),
• your divorce decree, if divorced (for divorce verification status), and
• the application fee of R140.