Applications for IDs or passports can soon be made at many banks. (Photo: PanaSmart)
The Department of Home Affairs launched a new digital partnership model with South Africa’s banking sector on Monday. The new model makes it possible for South Africans to apply for a smart ID card at certain bank branches without the traditional waiting times and paperwork that has become a frustrating feature of Department of Home Affairs offices over the years.
“Instead of traveling great distances and standing in long queues to visit one of only 349 Home Affairs offices nationwide, the new model offers a modern, fully digital experience where it only takes minutes for an applicant to complete a secure smart ID application through advanced technology integrated with their local bank branch,” Home Affairs said in its statement.
The department says the integration builds on the existing technological link between Home Affairs and banks and will significantly expand the number of secure service points for citizens nationwide.
First bank branches already online
For the first time, South Africans can now apply for a smart ID at nine bank branches, with branches of Capitec Bank and Standard Bank already providing this service.
The number of branches will expand to 17 by the end of the week, while First National Bank is currently in the final testing phase.
The new model differs from the previous system where Home Affairs satellite offices were operated within bank branches and customers still had to pre-book online and complete their application via the eHomeAffairs platform.
According to the department, customers at the 17 branches that start working this week can complete their smart ID application within five to ten minutes – without making an appointment beforehand.
Archive photo (Photo: Christel Cornelissen/Maroela Media)
Focus on replacement of green ID book
Around 16 million South Africans still use the green ID book, which the department says is one of the most counterfeited documents in Africa.
“The transition to the smart ID is therefore important to strengthen the country’s identity system and protect citizens against identity fraud,” the statement said.
The department plans to expand the system further this year to also enable first smart ID applications, passport services, courier delivery and applications via banks.
Major milestone for reform – Minister
Dr. Leon Schreiber, Minister of the Interior, says the launch is an important step in the modernization of government services.
“By embracing digital transformation, we are redefining what public service delivery looks like in the modern era.”
He says the aim is to reverse the way government services work.
“Instead of forcing people to go to Home Affairs and endure long queues and manual processes, we use technological security and efficiency to bring Home Affairs to the people, ensuring access, inclusion and dignity for all.”
The department intends to expand the model to a thousand bank branches nationwide by 2029.