With lines at Department of Home Affairs offices around South Africa often being long, more citizens would be wise to know about another option for obtaining their Smart IDs, or renewing their passports.
The four major banks in SA – Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, and ABSA – offer ID and passport services at a number of their branches. By arranging an appointment online, through eHomeAffairs, you can skip the lines, and process everything at your bank.
The process
- Create an account on the DHA’s eHomeAffairs website.
- Capture your application.
- Attach your supporting documents.
- Make payment.
- Schedule your appointment.
eHomeAffairs allows you to save your application progress, and come back to complete it at a later stage.
A bank branch visit is mandatory for the capture and verification of your biometric detail (photos, fingerprints, and signature). You will not be required to go to a Home Affairs office at any point.
Participating bank branches
This service is not available at all bank branches, nor is it available in all cities in South Africa. For a list of participating branches, click here.
Below is a list of current bank branches that support this process.
And below here is a list of scheduled bank branches that aim to support this process.
To find out more about the South African Smart ID card, click here. And for a how-to guide to arrange an appointment at your bank branch, click here. If, for whatever reason, you would prefer to get your Smart ID from a Home Affairs office, you can find a list of Smart ID-capable branches here.
For information as to how Relocation Africa can help you with your Mobility, Immigration, Research, Remuneration, and Expat Tax needs, email info@relocationafrica.com, or call us on +27 21 763 4240.