You can apply for a Smart ID online. People can submit supporting papers, make payments, and apply for smart ID cards and passports online via e-Home Affairs. The nicest thing about this method is that people may now carry it out in the convenience of their own homes. Read through to get information on SA identity cards.
How to Apply for a Smart ID Online
Step 1: Go on to the e-Home Affairs website and register. To register, you will need to:
- Complete personal details;
- Create a password, and;
- Answer various questions for security.
Step 2: You will receive an OTP (one-time pin) to confirm your cellphone number. Enter it in, and click submit.
Step 3: You will receive another OTP to log in to your profile.
Step 4: Complete your application form for a smart ID card.
Step 5: Upload the supporting documents.
Step 6: You can make an online payment or choose to pay at a branch of a bank.
- The smart ID card costs R140.
Step 7: Make a booking at a Home Affairs enabled Bank Office. But remember:
- Booking an appointment is needed for a visit to a bank.
- No booking is needed if you are going to a Home Affairs office.
- The barcode confirmation Letter and your ID Book (if available) must be “taken with
you when going to the branch or bank office”.
#Note: A branch visit is mandatory to capture and verify your biometric details, i.e. photo, fingerprints, and signature
Step 8: Print your confirmation letter.
Step 9: You will receive an SMS notifying you when your card is ready for collection.
Document You Will Need
Depending on your age, different documents are needed for the Smart ID application.
First-time issuance for citizens aged 16 years and above
- Birth certificate;
- Certified copy of one of the parent/legal guardian/informant’s identifying documents;
- Death certificate or certified copy if parents are deceased;
- Proof of residence (where it is available) or provide a residential address.
First-time issuance for pensioners 60 years and above
- Green bar-coded identity document/affidavit in case the identity document is lost;
- Proof of residence (where it is available) or provide residential address;
- Marriage certificate, if married (for marriage verification status);
- Divorce decree, if divorced (for divorce verification status).
First-time issuance for other age groups
- Green bar-coded identity document/affidavit in case the identity document is lost;
- Proof of residence (where it is available) or provide residential address;
- Marriage certificate, if married (for marriage verification status);
- Divorce decree, if divorced (for divorce verification status);
- A fee of ZAR 140.00.
Photo Parameters of South African Smart ID
South African Smart ID photos have the following parameters:
- The size is 35mm in width and 45mm in height;
- Your face must take 70–80% of the photograph;
- The background must be light grey or plain cream-colored;
- The picture must be sharp, clear, in focus, not pixelated or distorted in any way;
- The lighting and contrast must be even;
- Eyes must be open and look straight into the camera;
- Facial expression must be neutral;
- Your natural skin and eye color must be represented;
- Your face must be straight on at the center of the photo;
- Prescription glasses are allowed. Ensure the lenses are not tinted, and the glasses do not obscure your face;
- Headwear is not allowed except for religious purposes.