The Department of Home Affairs has recently taken a major step towards making its services more accessible and user-friendly. In partnership with major banks, it is now possible for South Africans to apply for smart ID cards and passports directly at bank branches, and even via banks’ digital platforms. This move is part of a larger plan to reduce long queues and overcrowded offices and to make modern digital solutions available to citizens.

According to the department the new system is not limited to clients from specific banks – any South African can benefit from this service in the future. By using existing infrastructure, such as bank branches across the country, the partnership brings thousands of people closer to essential documents and significantly improves access thereto

Experts describe the change as a real breakthrough, especially for those in rural areas or people that do not have easy access to traditional Home Affairs offices. While the system was initially only available in a small number of places, it is now being expanded with the aim of having more than a thousand new points available by 2027. In addition, it is planned that banks’ mobile apps also play a role, meaning that people will finally be able apply for their smart ID or passport from the comfort of their home.     

Which banks already offer these services?

Currently, smart ID and passport services are offered through the e-HomeAffairs system at about 30 branches of Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Discovery Bank and Investec. With the new expansion partnership, Capitec, FNB and Standard Bank will now be the driving force of the digital model that will make the service available on a much larger scale. For example, Capitec will start with ten branches from October 2025, while FNB and Standard Bank plan to open hundreds of new points over the next few years.

An inclusive service for all

This new plan can rightly be considered a breakthrough, especially for poor and vulnerable communities. It offers a practical solution for people who are often neglected due to long travel times, limited infrastructure and poor service at traditional Home Affairs offices.

What is particularly striking is that this approach not only increases convenience but is also an important step in the digitalisation of government services. By offering citizens the opportunity to obtain essential documents easier and faster, trust in the system is strengthened and South Africa’s move to a more digital future is clearly underlined. In addition, the increased use of banks and digital platforms help to combat corruption within the department, as processes become more transparent and efficient.

Where can the public direct enquiries?

Members of the public who have questions or require more information can contact the Department of Home Affairs directly on 0800 60 11 90 or visit the website www.dha.gov.za. For practical details, they can also enquire at their nearest bank branch that is part of the eHomeAffairs partnership.

At AfriForum Worldwide, we believe that it is important that you always have access to reliable information. We would like to help our community to stay informed, but please remember that we cannot assist with ID or passport applications ourselves. For any applications or enquiries, you must contact the Department of Home Affairs or the relevant banks directly. This way we ensure that you receive the right help faster.

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