Docs - Bank Home Affairs Services Guide (for IDS and Passports)
Many South Africans choose to apply for their Smart ID Cards and Passports through participating bank branches rather than visiting a traditional Department of Home Affairs office.
Selected bank branches offer Home Affairs services in partnership with the Department of Home Affairs. These services can often be more convenient and may involve shorter waiting times.
Which Services Are Available?
Depending on the branch, participating banks may offer:
- First-time Smart ID Card applications.
- Replacement Smart ID Cards.
- New passport applications.
- Passport renewals.
- Passport replacements for lost, stolen, damaged or expired passports.
Not every participating branch offers every service. Availability may vary by bank and location.
Which Banks Participate?
Participating banks may include:
- ABSA
- FNB
- Investec
- Nedbank
- Standard Bank
Participating banks and branch locations can change over time. Always verify current availability through the eHomeAffairs system before making travel arrangements.
Important Requirements
- You will normally need a South African ID number.
- You must register on the eHomeAffairs system.
- You will normally need an appointment.
- Appointments themselves are free.
- Normal Home Affairs document fees still apply.
Booking an appointment does not replace the standard fees charged by the Department of Home Affairs for passports, replacement ID cards, or other services.
Advantages Of Using A Bank
- Often shorter queues.
- Indoor waiting areas.
- Biometric capture completed at the branch.
- Convenient locations for many applicants.
- Professional appointment-based process.
Possible Disadvantages
- Limited branch availability.
- Appointments may fill quickly.
- Not all Home Affairs services are available through banks.
- Some areas have no participating branches nearby.
Step-By-Step Application Process
- Register for an account on the eHomeAffairs website.
- Complete the relevant Smart ID Card or Passport application.
- Pay any required Home Affairs fees.
- Select a participating bank branch if available.
- Book an appointment.
- Attend your appointment.
- Complete biometric capture, including fingerprints, photograph and signature.
- Wait for notification that your document is ready.
- Collect your document from the designated collection point.
Appointment Tips
If your preferred branch shows no available appointments, some applicants report success by checking the booking system shortly after midnight when new appointment slots may become available.
Availability changes regularly, so it is worth checking more than once.
Arrive on time for your appointment. Late arrivals may be required to book another appointment.
What To Take
- Your South African ID document if available.
- Your existing passport if renewing or replacing a passport.
- Your appointment confirmation.
- Proof of payment if applicable.
- Any supporting documents requested by Home Affairs.
You do not normally need to bring passport photographs. Photographs are generally captured electronically during the biometric process.
Document Collection
Once your application has been processed, you will normally receive a notification advising when your document is ready for collection.
Collection procedures may vary depending on the service and location.
Common Problems
- No available appointments.
- Branch not appearing on the eHomeAffairs system.
- Online payment issues.
- System outages or maintenance.
- Temporary suspension of services at specific branches.
Special Note For Refugee Applicants
If you require a South African ID document or passport as part of the refugee resettlement process, apply as early as possible.
Processing times can vary and delays sometimes occur. Keep copies of all receipts, appointment confirmations, SMS notifications and reference numbers.
With Love
Your Cheeky Undercover Refugee
Important Disclaimer
Government procedures, fees, participating banks, branch availability, processing times and requirements can change without notice. The information in this guide is provided as general guidance only. Applicants should always verify current requirements directly with the Department of Home Affairs, participating banks and other relevant authorities before making decisions or submitting applications.