Upgrade coming for Smart ID card and passport applications
South Africans will soon be able to apply for Smart ID cards and passports through their banking apps.
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced a new method of applying for both Smart ID cards and passports.
In an effort to streamline service, DHA will allow South African citizens to apply for their Smart ID cards and passports through their banking apps.
These services are the product of an agreement made with the DHA, South African Revenue Service (SARS), Border Management Authority (BMA) and Government Printing Works (GPW).
The following updates will soon be launched as a result of the agreement between the above parties:
The launch of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system will digitalise and automate immigration procedures in an effort to eradicate disorginsation and fraudulent activities.
Home Affairs services will be integrated with banking platforms. Once implemented, Smart ID and passport services will be available at hundreds of bank branches and on banking apps.
A secure courier delivery service to eliminate the requirement to collect documents only at Home Affairs branches.
Smart IDs for naturalised citizens and permanent residents.
Movement Control Systems (MCS) at all ports of entry will be upgraded.
“It is difficult to overstate the significance of what we have jointly achieved with today’s adoption of this historic agreement. SARS is a world-class institution that must never be taken for granted, and I want to thank the Commissioner and his team for their visionary commitment to breaking down silos in the interests of South Africa," said Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber.
"Equally, I applaud the diligent and unwavering commitment of the Home Affairs, BMA and GPW teams in embracing the power of digital transformation.”
🚀 Supercharging digital transformation! I am delighted to announce the conclusion of a groundbreaking agreement between Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority, Government Printing Works and the South African Revenue Service to digitally transform and revolutionise… pic.twitter.com/TpfgtUix2S
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) April 3, 2025
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