The Department of Home Affairs has intensified efforts to phase out green ID books by expanding Smart ID card application points through a digital partnership with major South African banks.

The department plans to have more than one thousand application points nationwide, including Home Affairs offices, by late 2026.

While South Africans will be given time to transition, no official deadline for phasing out green ID books has yet been published in the Government Gazette.

Citizens who still use green ID books are encouraged to apply proactively for Smart ID cards, which are more secure and less vulnerable to identity fraud.

Home Affairs also advises that anyone whose ID has been reported lost or stolen should apply for a new Smart ID immediately, as the old document will be invalid on departmental records.