Smart IDs now at 753 bank branches. When Nedbank and first IDs follow

You can now replace your ID or swap your green ID book for a Smart ID card at 753 bank branches, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said on Wednesday, 11 November. That beats the department's target of 750 branches by the end of March 2027 by more than four months (SA Government).

Add the Home Affairs offices that issue Smart IDs and there are now 967 places to apply, up from 214 offices at the start of this administration. More than one million people have already used the bank service, according to the minister (SA Government).

Which banks offer Smart IDs now?

Four banks: Absa, Capitec, FNB and Standard Bank. You walk into a participating branch with no booking, no paperwork and no queue, and the biometric application takes about five minutes, Home Affairs says (SA Government).

To find the nearest branch, use Home Affairs' official partner branch locator.

Source: SA Government.

Can I get my first ID at a bank?

Not yet. The bank service is still only for replacement IDs, which includes moving from a green ID book to a Smart ID card (BusinessTech). A first-time ID still means a trip to a Home Affairs office.

Schreiber said "more banks, and more services" will be added shortly (SA Government). BusinessTech reports the goal is to add first-time Smart IDs, passports and home delivery, with a medium-term aim of 1,000 branches (BusinessTech). No dates have been given for those services.

When will Nedbank offer Smart IDs?

Nedbank says it is in technical testing with Home Affairs and planned to go live for its own staff during November. After that, it will open nine pilot branches across several provinces, then expand to all nine provinces from early 2027. Its second phase will add passport services (ITWeb).

Nedbank says it will waive its convenience fee during the pilot (ITWeb). It has not named the pilot branches.

How much does it cost at a bank?

The Home Affairs fee for a replacement Smart ID is R140. When Reported checked on 25 October, Capitec added a R10 service fee, so you paid R150 there (Capitec), while FNB said it charged nothing on top (FNB). You pay from your bank account, not in cash, so you need an active, funded account at that bank.

Why is Home Affairs pushing this?

Schreiber said wider access supports the department's plan to phase out the green ID book, which he called "fraud-prone" and linked to identity theft and illegal immigration (Daily Investor). Green ID book holders can switch at any participating branch.