Permanent Residency in South Africa: Qualifications and ID Application

Applying for a South African ID: Easy Steps for a Hassle-Free Process

When it comes to obtaining a South African ID, there are two distinct processes offered by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).

We’ve previously discussed the DHA’s online service in a separate article. However, for those who lack access to a smart device or the internet, an alternative process is available.

Here, we outline the straightforward steps for applying for a South African ID through the traditional route.

Eligibility Criteria

Before delving into the application process, it’s essential to understand who is eligible to apply for a South African ID.

According to the DHA, ID documents are issued to South African citizens or permanent residence permit holders who are 16 years or older.

Additionally, individuals employed by the South African government or its statutory bodies outside of South Africa, along with their spouses and children, are eligible for South African ID documents.

Qualifying for Permanent Residence

To apply for a South African ID, you may need to meet specific criteria for permanent residency.

These criteria include holding a Critical Skills Work Visa, having held a work visa for five years or more, being married or related to a South African citizen for five years or more, or obtaining a permanent job offer in South Africa.

These qualifications open the door to South African residency and, consequently, the opportunity to apply for an ID.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) eHome website and access the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS).
2. Input your South African ID number, click “Next,” and follow the prompts to complete the necessary forms. Ensure you click “Authenticate” when finished.
3. Choose “Schedule Appointment” to select your preferred DHA branch based on proximity. Specify your Province and City from the menu and select a suitable date range via “Find Slots.”
4. Agree to the terms by checking the checkbox and clicking “Confirm.”
5. Upon applying for a South African ID, the DHA will send an SMS to the cellphone number you provided, containing the date, time, and reference number for your appointment.
6. To receive SMS updates, text “ID” followed by your ID number to 32551 (charges apply).
7. Visit the chosen DHA branch to have your fingerprints and ID photograph captured.
8. You’ll subsequently receive an SMS notifying you of the date for collecting your new South African ID document, with an average processing time of 14 working days.

This streamlined process ensures a hassle-free journey to obtaining a South African ID, facilitating the participation of eligible citizens and residents in official documentation

Additional Information

For more detailed information on the application process, eligibility criteria, and related topics, please refer to the relevant official sources and resources provided by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).

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