South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is ramping up its Digital ID system in August–September 2025, expanding Smart ID card access, upgrading national identity verification, and launching the ETA visa system. These steps fast-track the transition toward a full digital identity ecosystem by 2029.
Strategic Vision & Government Objectives
- Replace green barcoded ID books by end‑2025, enabling Smart ID issuance as the national standard.
- Expand DHA services via Home Affairs @ Home—online applications, postal delivery, bank branches, and kiosks by September 2025.
- Launch a high‑performance Online Verification Service (OVS) from July 2025 with dramatically improved speed and accuracy.
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August–September 2025 Rollout Highlights
Smart ID Expansion (August–September):
- From May 2025, DHA opened Smart ID access to naturalised citizens and PRs from visa-exempt countries across all provinces.
- DHA aims to issue 2.5 million Smart IDs in 2025. By August, they expanded access via ≥30 bank branches, targeting 100 branches by year-end.
Verification Upgrade & ETA Launch
- The upgraded biometric verification system went live 24 March 2025, with <1% error rate and sub-second verification times. Full public and private rollout began July, 2025.
- South Africa’s AI-powered ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) visa system launches by end‑September 2025, enabling instant short‑stay tourist visas via mobile access.
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Who Qualifies & Phased Rollout
Eligibility & Access Phases
- Phase 1 (ongoing in Aug–Sep 2025): Smart ID applications for naturalised citizens and permanent residents from visa‑exempt countries.
- Phase 2 (by late 2025): Expansion to those from visa-required countries and first-time ID applicants.
Application Channels
- Smart ID via: DHA Live Capture Offices, bank branches (pilot already live), and eHomeAffairs Portal / BABS.
- Applicants pay R140, waived for seniors aged 60+.
How to Apply & Verify
- Book an appointment online or visit a DHA or partnering bank branch.
- Submit original documents: valid ID Book/card, proof of residence, birth certificates, and supporting documents if required.
- Capture biometrics (photo, fingerprint, facial recognition) on-site.
- Receive your Smart ID card via pick-up or home delivery service.
- For e‑visa (ETA), simply apply via mobile wallet and receive digital authorisation instantly.
Timeline & Milestones
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| OVS upgrade & rollout | 24 March 2025 |
| Smart ID rollout to PRs (Phase 1) | 12 May 2025 |
| Bank branch Smart ID access expands | Aug–Sep 2025 |
| SMART ID issuance target (2025) | 2.5 million by Dec |
| Green book issuance ends | By end‑2025 |
| ETA visa goes live | By end‑September 2025 |
| Multi‑document digital wallet launch | Rolling through 2028–29 |
Benefits & National Impact
- Secure identity verification for SASSA grant access, bank accounts, and government services with minimal delays.
- Convenient access including at-home applications and delivery, self-service kiosks, and bank branch processing.
- E‑government readiness: e‑visa systems, digital wallets, and 15 credential storage by 2029.
Risks & Challenges
- Access disparities: remote areas may face delays due to limited branches or network connectivity.
- Privacy concerns under public digital ID policy—parliament now accepting feedback through 21 August 2025.
- Ongoing system resilience needed to manage high volume biometric traffic and prevent downtime.
In August–September 2025, South Africa accelerates its Digital ID program: expanding Smart ID access, upgrading identity verification, and launching an AI-powered ETA system.
These initiatives lay critical groundwork for inclusive, secure, and convenient e‑government services over the next decade. Apply now to access smoother civic services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for a Smart ID at a bank?
Yes. DHA has expanded access to ≥30 bank branches by mid‑2025, with plans to reach 100 branches by year-end. Banking apps now support appointment booking and live capture.
2. When does the ETA system launch?
The AI‑based Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short‑stay visitors goes live by end‑September 2025, offering digital visa issuance via mobile wallets at international entry points.
3. What changed in Home Affairs’ verification service in July 2025?
July 2025, DHA implemented a major upgrade to its Online Verification Service (OVS)—reducing errors to <1%, improving speed, and introducing new service tariffs for private sector use.