In recent discussions, there has been widespread concern over the fate of South Africa’s green ID books.
Some reports claimed that these ID books would become invalid by the end of 2025.
However, the Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, took to social media to clarify these rumors.
He made it clear that there are no plans to phase out the green ID books by the end of this year.
Schreiber addressed the confusion after an article misquoted the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs.
He explained on X that Home Affairs was fully committed to ensuring that all South Africans would have access to Smart IDs.
As part of this goal, the department will be expanding partnerships with banks, offering home delivery options, and providing online channels as part of a broader digital transformation initiative.
The Shift to Smart IDs and Future Plans
Although the green ID book is not being phased out immediately, Schreiber emphasized the importance of transitioning to Smart IDs as soon as possible.
He encouraged South Africans who are able to do so to apply for a Smart ID, as it offers greater security compared to the old green ID book.
Schreiber further stated that once the rollout of Smart IDs is completed, an official announcement will be made regarding the eventual phasing out of the green ID book.
Expansion of Smart ID Services at Banks
In other news, South Africa’s banking sector is stepping up its role in the Smart ID rollout.
A number of banks have already been offering Smart ID and passport services, and several more are joining in.
FNB, Absa, and Discovery Bank are among the institutions that are expanding their branches with eHomeAffairs-enabled services, allowing South Africans to apply for their Smart IDs without the need to visit a Home Affairs office.
Participating Bank Branches for Smart ID Services
If you prefer to skip the long queues at the Department of Home Affairs, several bank branches are now equipped to assist you with your Smart ID and passport applications.
Here’s a list of some of the participating branches:
Nedbank
- Arcadia
- Constantia Kloof
- Nelspruit
- Rivonia
- St George’s Mall
- Durban North
Absa
- Centurion
- Key West Krugersdorp
- Sandton City
- Port Elizabeth
- Stellenbosch
- Towers
Standard Bank
- Kathu Mall
- Centurion
- Killarney Mall
- Kingsmead
- Jubilee Mall
- Canal Walk
- Mitchell’s Plain
- Simmonds Street
- Newton Park
FNB
- Burgersfort
- Centurion Lifestyle Centre
- Cornubia
- Glen Shopping Centre
- Greenpoint
- Lynwood
- Merchant Place
Other Banks
- Discovery Bank Head Office
- Investec Bank Sandown