Quick Answer: YES! Absa offers Smart ID services at selected branches across South Africa.

1. How It Works at Absa
2. What You Need
3. Costs and Fees
4. Branch Locations
5. Step-by-Step Process
6. Pro Tips
7. Other Options

How Smart ID Services Work at Absa

Absa Bank joined the Department of Home Affairs partnership programme, allowing South Africans to apply for Smart ID cards at selected Absa branches. There are two routes: the newer Digital Partnership walk-in, which covers Smart ID replacements and green ID book swaps only, and the older eHomeAffairs specialised-branch path, where you book and pay online first. First-time IDs are not done on the walk-in route.

The big advantage: Absa has one of the largest branch networks in South Africa, which means more locations to choose from compared to some other banks. Branch visits are by appointment, so you avoid the unpredictable queues at Home Affairs.

Who can use this service: Any South African citizen or permanent resident aged 16 or older. Requirements differ by route: the Digital Partnership walk-in covers replacements and green-book swaps only, and customer or account requirements may apply depending on the bank and route.

What You Need to Apply

First-time applicants (16+ years)

First-time Smart ID applications are not handled on the Digital Partnership bank walk-in route. Apply at a Department of Home Affairs office, or via the older eHomeAffairs specialised-branch path where a bank still offers it. See the all-banks Smart ID guide.

For Green ID Book Upgrades:

• Your green barcoded ID book
• Marriage certificate (if changing surname)
• Divorce decree (if applicable)

For Replacement (Lost/Stolen/Damaged):

• Police affidavit (if lost or stolen)
• Birth certificate
• Proof of address

Smart ID Costs in 2026

Service	Cost
First-time application (16-18 years)	FREE
First-time application (18+ years)	R140
Green ID book upgrade	R140
Replacement (lost/stolen)	R140

Payment: On the older eHomeAffairs path you pay online through the portal before your branch visit. On the Digital Partnership walk-in route the fee is handled in-branch and can be debited from your bank account.

Which Absa Branches Offer Smart ID Services?

Absa is progressively activating Smart ID services at branches across all nine provinces. The rollout prioritises high-traffic branches in metropolitan areas first.

To find your nearest participating branch:

• Visit the eHomeAffairs portal and select “Bank Branch” to see available Absa locations
• Call Absa on 0860 111 456 to confirm which branches near you offer Smart ID services
• Use the Absa app branch locator and filter for Smart ID services

Step-by-step: the older eHomeAffairs specialised-branch path

These steps describe the older eHomeAffairs book-and-pay path at specialised branches. It is not the only current bank route.

1. Start online: Go to eHomeAffairs.gov.za and register or log in
2. Complete your application: Enter your details and select “Smart ID Card”
3. Select Absa branch: Choose “Bank Branch” as your service point and pick a participating Absa branch
4. Pay the fee: R140 online (free for applicants aged 16-18)
5. Book your slot: Choose your preferred date and time
6. Visit the branch: Bring your reference number and all required documents
7. Biometrics captured: Photo and fingerprints taken at the branch (about 15 minutes)
8. Collection: Collect your Smart ID at the same branch when ready, typically 4-6 weeks. You will get an SMS when it arrives.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Application

• Midweek appointments (Tuesday to Thursday) tend to be quieter than Mondays and Fridays
• Save your reference number from eHomeAffairs in your phone and on paper
• Check your documents twice before leaving home, a missing birth certificate means a wasted trip
• No glasses or hats in your photo (religious headwear is allowed)
• Ask about collection hours when you visit, some branches have specific collection windows
• Keep your receipt: The eHomeAffairs payment confirmation is your proof of payment if any issues arise

Other Places to Apply for a Smart ID

If Absa branches near you are not yet offering this service, you have other options:

• Department of Home Affairs offices: The traditional route. Expect longer waiting times but available everywhere.
• Other banks: Capitec, FNB, Absa, Nedbank, and Standard Bank all participate in the programme. Check our guides below for details.
• eHomeAffairs online: Start your application at eHomeAffairs.gov.za regardless of where you do your biometrics.