South Africans may obtain smart IDs and new passports…

Date: January 14, 2025 | Posted in News | South African News

The collaboration with specific branches stems from systemic issues with Home Affairs such as long queues, unreliable systems and poor customer service.

PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – JULY 18: Zindzi Mandela holds her grandfather’s new Smart ID on July 18, 2013, in Pretoria, South Africa. The new smart-ID was launched at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on18 July 2013, as part of celebrations of international Nelson Mandela Day. (Photo by Gallo Images / Foto24 / Herman Verwey)

According to BusinessTech, the eHome Affairs pilot was launched by the Department of Home Affairs in 2015 and the system allows for banks to provide an alternative channel for accessing the department.

Reportedly, the department’s employees use the system to render the service, which allows banking customers to book appointments on the digital platform and apply for both smart IDs and passports online.

The system may be utilised once customers have provided their biometric information, such as a photograph and relevant fingerprints, to their bank branch. These details as well as other personal information which is provided online, allow customers to access the online service.