HOME AFFAIRS TO ISSUE 2.2M SMART IDS THIS YEAR
The Department of Home Affairs plans to issue 2.2 million Smart ID cards during the 2016/17 financial year,minister Malusi Gigaba has announced.
Gigaba was delivering his department’s Budget Vote Speech in parliament this morning, noting that Home Affairs has issued 4.1 million Smart ID since they it first began rolling them out in 2013.
“We…have met our target of 2.2 million Smart ID cards issued last year,” Gigaba said, also mentioning that over 90% of applicants receive their Smart ID and/or passport within two weeks of applying.
The department has a target to replace over 38 million green ID books with Smart IDs over the next few years.
To help meet its rollout target, Live Capture offices have been increased from 140 to 178, with all of them now accept payment by cash, credit and debit cards.
eHome Affairs applications
Since launching the eHome Affairs Smart ID card and passport portal, the site has processed 8 053 applications, as of yesterday.
“When we finalise the roll out plan for the eHome Affairs as well as the conversion plan for the live capture and mobile units, we will review the cut-off date for the green ID book and announce new timelines,” Gigaba said.
