How To Apply For An ID In South Africa
Citizens and permanent residents of South Africa can identify themselves for everyday social interactions and general reasons by presenting an identity document (ID). Everyday activities include using an ID because it is required for every transaction.
If you are a permanent resident or a citizen of South Africa, you can obtain a South African ID if you are at least 16 years old.
You can apply for a replacement ID if your ID book has been damaged, stolen, lost, or any of the above. A fresh ID is also available if:
Your individual information has changed.
Your country of citizenship has changed.
You have a new last name (for example, if you get married or divorced).
You formerly held a South African ID and are currently staying overseas.
Replacing your damaged, lost, or stolen ID willcost R140.
Additionally, immigrants with active permanent residency permits are eligible for ID
While you wait for the processing of your ID application, you can use a temporary ID as identification. This document has a limited shelf lif
What is required in South Africa to apply for an ID
First-time applicants must present a birth certificate, evidence of address, and, in the case of minors, their parent(s). Green bar-coded ID required for permanent South African residents. Initial applicants must provide a proof of address and a certificate of permanent residence
Applying for a South African ID
Now that the green bar-coded identity card has been replaced, all South Africans are eligible to apply for the new Smart Identity card only businesses using live capture system is able to print smart ID cards. Check with your local home affairs office to see if they handle smart ID cards and new passports using a “live capture” system. A Smart ID application will cost R140. You won’t need to bring photos because offices set up to handle smart ID card applications will be able to handle both processes.
With eHome Affairs, you can also submit an online smart ID card application.
Note: It is anticipated that it will take 6–7 years to phase out the old green ID booklets, therefore they will continue to be accepted.
first-time candidates
A first-time applicant must be accompanied by their parents or one of their parents when they apply for an ID card, and a certified copy of their ID is required. If the child’s parents have passed away, their legal guardian must accompany them.
Obtaining a new ID
You can ask for a Temporary Identification Certificate if your ID is stolen, lost, or damaged (TIC). Your fingerprints must be verified before you may do this at any Department of Home Affairs office.
Can I get my ID through Absa?
You must already be a customer of the bank in order to apply for your smart ID card there. This service is provided by a few branches of the following commercial banks: Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, and ABSA.
The initial ID application is it free?
Processing costs are waived for initial applicants.Only South African nationals and permanent residents 16 years of age and older are permitted to own ID documents. BI 529 – Citizenship determination; required for all applicants.
