The Department of Home Affairs is hoping to reduce its long queues through a digital partnership model with banks across the country.
The live operational phase of this system, which will allow smart ID applications to be made at selected bank branches, was launched over the weekend.
According to Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, this forms part of the department’s digital transformation strategy aimed at improving services.
“Instead of forcing people to go to Home Affairs to endure long queues and manual processes, we are using technology, security and efficiency to bring Home Affairs to the people, delivering access, inclusion and dignity for all. By embracing digital transformation, we are redefining what public service delivery looks like in the modern age,” Schreiber expressed in a statement on Monday.
He added that the service, which is already operational at about nine banks, will be expanded to over 17 branches by the end of this week.
“The first participating institutions include Capitec Bank and Standard Bank, while First National Bank is in the final phase of testing. Other banks that joined the partnership last year are also preparing to roll out the service,” he explained.
The department is optimistic that through this digital tool, it will be able to phase out the use of the green ID book, which is still utilised by an estimated 16 million South Africans.
The document was identified as the most vulnerable and easiest to defraud in Africa, but Schreiber believes the department is well on its way to accelerating the shift to Smart IDs.
Furthermore, the Minister revealed that as the system gains momentum and stability this year, the bank partnership will be expanded to include first-time Smart ID applications, passport services, as well as courier delivery of documents.
The department is targeting 1,000 bank branches by 2029 with this new digital partnership.
