Zuko Komisa
- Home Affairs has launched 110 bank-based service points, marking a 44% increase in Smart ID accessibility within three weeks.
- Over 25,000 applications have been completed via the new digital model, maintaining a processing speed of one application per minute.
- The department aims to expand to 1,000 bank branches by 2029, with passport and courier services expected to go live shortly.
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has achieved a significant digital milestone, surpassing its target by activating 110 bank branches to provide Smart ID services across South Africa.
This expansion represents a 44% increase in service points in just three weeks, with First National Bank (FNB) joining Capitec and Standard Bank in the rollout.
Under the “Home Affairs @ home” reform programme, the initiative has already processed over 25,000 applications at a rate of more than one per minute.
The system utilizes fingerprint and facial recognition technology to eliminate manual paperwork and fraud, allowing citizens to replace green ID books or lost Smart IDs in approximately five minutes without prior bookings.
Minister Dr Leon Schreiber confirmed that the department is on track to reach 1,000 branches by 2029. Future updates will include first-time ID applications, passport services, and secure courier deliveries.
While Absa and Nedbank conclude their testing phases, the current expansion is designed to reduce queues at traditional offices, allowing officials to focus on complex cases in underserved areas.
READ NEXT: R2.6 million border bust: Seven arrested for cigarette smuggling and stolen vehicles
The post Home Affairs surpasses target with 110 bank branches now issuing Smart IDs appeared first on KAYA 959.
