The future is here | Unlock smart book borrowing at Shenzhen Library in Guangdong, South China

More than one million South Africans have applied for Smart ID cards through a partnership between the department of home affairs and the banking sector, according to figures released by the department. The department stated that 1,002,773 people have utilized the service since its launch in March 2026. The system is available at 669 participating bank branches across the nation, allowing citizens to apply for replacement Smart ID cards via a fully digital process.

The expansion aims to increase access to identity document services while reducing dependence on home affairs offices. The digital application process employs biometric verification and typically takes five minutes to complete. This shift away from manual paperwork and in-person processing is expected to enhance efficiency and minimize fraud opportunities.

Home affairs is also preparing to expand services through participating bank branches, including passport applications, first-time Smart ID applications, and home delivery options in the coming months. As the government pushes to phase out the Green ID Book, the milestone marks strong public demand for more accessible and streamlined government services.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber expressed pride in the public's embrace of the home affairs @ home reforms, highlighting the program's positive impact on the lives of over one million South Africans in just seven months. The department believes digital systems can help resolve long-standing service delivery challenges, such as long queues and administrative inefficiencies, and encourages citizens still using Green ID Books to switch to Smart ID cards ahead of their planned withdrawal.