GEORGE NEWS - Certain bank branches in George have come on board to offer access to the new online Smart ID application system, making the process for applicants much easier as they don't need to visit the Home Affairs office and stand in long queues any more.

An application at the bank can be done in as little as five to 10 minutes.

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) announced this digital partnership model with the banking sector earlier this year. According to the department's website, the current participating banks include Standard Bank, Capitec and First National Bank.

Under the new system, eligible applicants can apply to have their green barcoded ID book converted to a Smart ID or apply for the reissue of a lost existing Smart ID.

According to the department, about 16 million South Africans still rely on the older green ID book, which is vulnerable to fraud.

The roll-out is intended to speed up the transition to Smart ID cards. The process is fully digital and integrated within bank branches. Biometric capturing and verification are handled on site and no booking is required beforehand.

Cost

The total cost of a Smart ID application is R150, which includes the R140 DHA application fee and a R10 service fee.

Applicants must open an account with the participating bank if they do not already hold one.

Completed Smart IDs will be collected from the same branch where the application was made. The bank communicates the details for collection to the applicant.

The DHA is planning to expand the online services to more bank branches this year and to eventually include services such as first-time Smart ID applications and passport applications.

For Georgians, the service is already available at the Capitec Bank George Boulevard Centre branch, among others.

Contact your bank to find a branch where you can apply.

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