Identity Document Application

An identity document (ID) allows South African citizens and permanent residents to confirm their identity for official purposes and daily activities. IDs are required for employment, banking, voting, accessing services, and many legal transactions.

You can apply for an ID if you are a South African citizen or permanent resident aged 16 years or older.

An ID confirms your identity and citizenship. The department issues:

• Green barcoded ID books
• Smart ID cards

A Temporary Identity Certificate (TIC) may be issued while your ID is being processed. This serves as short-term proof of identity.

Who can apply

You may apply if you are:

• A South African citizen aged 16 or older
• A permanent resident with a valid permit

Reasons to apply

You can apply for a new or replacement ID if:

• Your ID is lost, stolen, or damaged
• Your personal details changed
• Your citizenship status changed
• Your surname changed (for example, after marriage or divorce)
• You lived abroad and previously had a South African ID

How to apply

1. Visit a Home Affairs office or apply online (Smart ID only).
2. Complete Form BI-9.
3. Submit supporting documents.
4. Provide fingerprints and have your photo taken.
5. Receive a collection slip.

Tip: Contact your local office before visiting to confirm requirements and services available.

First-time applications

Applicants aged 16–18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Required documents:

• Completed Form BI-9
• Certified copy of birth certificate
• Two colour ID photos (not needed at digital capture offices)
• Fingerprints taken at office

Additional documents (if applicable):

• Naturalisation certificate
• Permanent residence certificate
• Exemption certificate
• Form BI-1620

If certificates are missing, you must apply for duplicates before submitting your ID application.

Smart ID cards

Smart ID cards are replacing green ID books.

• Issued only at offices with live capture systems
• Photos taken digitally (no printed photos required)
• Cost: R140

You can start your application online via eHomeAffairs and visit an office only for biometrics.

Note: Green ID books remain valid and will be phased out gradually.

Replacing an ID

If your ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, you may:

• Apply for a replacement ID
• Request a Temporary Identification Certificate

You must:

• Complete Form BI-9 (if fingerprints not previously recorded)
• Provide supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate if surname changed)
• Pay the replacement fee

SMS tracking:
Send ID <space> ID number to 32551 (R1 per SMS).

Correcting errors

If your ID contains an official error, it will be replaced free of charge.

Submit:

• Forms BI-9 and BI-309
• Proof of correct information (e.g., birth certificate)

• Two colour ID photos (not required at digital offices)

   

Documents required

The documents you must submit depend on the type of birth certificate service you need.

For newborn birth registration

• Notice of birth form issued by hospital, clinic, or midwife
• Mother’s ID or passport
• Father’s ID or passport (if available)
• Marriage certificate (if parents are married)
• Acknowledgement of paternity form (if parents are unmarried and father’s details must appear)

For late registration of birth (after 30 days)

Additional documents may be required, such as:

• Clinic cards or school records
• Baptismal certificate (if available)
• Affidavits from parents or relatives
• Proof of residence
• Any supporting documents proving birth details

For replacement or additional copies

• Applicant’s ID or valid identification
• Completed application form
• Payment of applicable fee

For unabridged or vault copies

• Applicant’s ID
• Details of birth (full name, date of birth, place of birth)
• Supporting documents if information must be verified

Important: Requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and office procedures. Always confirm with your nearest Home Affairs office before visiting.

Costs

Note: Photo costs are not included.

Contact information

Home Affairs Call Centre: 0800 60 11 90
Website: www.dha.gov.za 

The Department of Home Affairs provides services at Thusong Service Centres through scheduled monthly visits.