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

1. How It Works at FNB
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 FNB

FNB (First National Bank) partnered with the Department of Home Affairs to offer Smart ID application services at selected branches. There are two routes. On the newer Digital Partnership route you walk into a participating branch for a Smart ID replacement or a green ID book swap – first-time IDs are not done this way, and customer or account requirements may apply. On the older eHomeAffairs specialised-branch path you apply and pay online first, then visit a participating specialised branch for your photograph and fingerprints.

The big advantage: FNB branches tend to be less crowded than Home Affairs offices, and you can book a specific time slot through eHomeAffairs, so there is no waiting in long queues.

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. FNB’s walk-in replacement currently requires an FNB customer with an active, funded transactional account. Some specialised FNB branches still run the older eHomeAffairs path.

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 FNB Branches Offer Smart ID Services?

FNB is rolling out Smart ID services at selected branches in major metros. The programme started in Gauteng and the Western Cape and is expanding to other provinces throughout 2026.

To find your nearest participating branch:

• Visit the eHomeAffairs portal and select “Bank Branch” as your service point
• Call FNB on 087 575 9404 and ask about Smart ID branch availability
• Check the FNB app under “Services” for branch capabilities

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: Visit eHomeAffairs.gov.za and create an account or log in
2. Complete your application: Fill in your personal details and select “Smart ID Card” as the document type
3. Choose FNB branch: When selecting a service point, choose “Bank Branch” and pick your nearest participating FNB branch
4. Pay online: Pay the R140 fee (free for 16-18 year olds) through the eHomeAffairs portal
5. Book your appointment: Select a date and time that works for you
6. Visit the branch: Bring your reference number, required documents, and arrive on time
7. Biometrics: The branch captures your photo and fingerprints (takes about 15 minutes)
8. Collect your Smart ID: Your card will be ready for collection at the same branch, usually within 4-6 weeks. You will receive an SMS notification.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Application

• Book early morning slots for the shortest wait times
• Take a screenshot of your eHomeAffairs reference number in case of connectivity issues at the branch
• Dress neatly for your photo, wear what you would want on an ID you will carry for years
• Remove glasses and headwear (religious headwear is permitted) for the photo
• Check branch hours: Some FNB branches offering Smart ID services have specific days or hours for this service
• Bring a printout of your eHomeAffairs confirmation if possible, as a backup

Other Places to Apply for a Smart ID

If FNB 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.