Capitec Launches Smart ID Self-Service Terminals at Bank Branches
Viable News Team 
South Africans can now apply for Smart ID cards at select bank branches using self-service terminals, following the official launch of a new digital system introduced by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in partnership with major banks.
Following the launch of the first Capitec branch under our digital partnership in Orange Farm this morning, we just launched the first Standard Bank branch in Soweto. Meet their version of the future, where Smart ID applications take 5-10 minutes – coming to a branch near you! 🇿🇦 https://t.co/35VtUwONws pic.twitter.com/xdq30VgWwO
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) March 9, 2026
The latest development came on 9 March 2026, when Capitec Bank rolled out its first Smart ID self-service terminals (SSTs) at several branches across the country. The launch was attended by Leon Schreiber, who described the move as a key step in modernising public services.
Welcome to the future of Home Affairs, coming to a bank branch near you! 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/j8xLT817AN
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) March 9, 2026
Smart ID Applications Now Available at Selected Capitec Branches
The new terminals allow citizens to complete Smart ID applications in a matter of minutes using digital biometric technology connected directly to DHA systems.
The service is currently available at seven Capitec branches, with walk-in access and no prior booking required:
- Sandton City – Gauteng
- Orange Farm Eyethu Mall – Gauteng
- Howick – KwaZulu-Natal
- Swellendam – Western Cape
- Hermanus Whale Coast Mall – Western Cape
- Kathu Village Mall – Northern Cape
- N1 Botlokwa Plaza, Matoks – Limpopo
We’ve made it easier to replace your old green ID book. You can now get a Smart ID at selected branches in partnership with the Department of Home Affairs. It’s quick and easy at our Self-Service Terminal.
— Capitec (@CapitecBankSA) March 9, 2026
Click here to find out more: https://t.co/IIbBSZDnNV pic.twitter.com/1AI3biObeu
At the terminals, applicants can scan fingerprints, capture facial biometrics and complete their application electronically. The entire process typically takes less than five minutes, according to the DHA.
Applicants pay a R150 fee, which includes the standard R140 Home Affairs fee plus a R10 logistics fee charged by Capitec.
Importantly, the service is open to all South African citizens, not only Capitec clients.
Industry First for Fully Self-Service Applications
Officials say the rollout marks a significant milestone in government digitisation efforts.
Unlike earlier bank partnerships, which required Department of Home Affairs officials to be stationed at branches, the new system allows citizens to complete their applications entirely through self-service kiosks.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy by the Department of Home Affairs to reduce long queues at traditional government offices and make ID services more accessible.
Banks Expanding Home Affairs Services Nationwide
The DHA has been working with several major banks to expand access to Smart ID and passport services.
Banks already participating in the programme include:
- First National Bank
- Standard Bank
- Absa Group
- Nedbank
These banks have offered Smart ID and passport services at selected branches for several years, usually through appointment-based systems linked to the DHA’s eHomeAffairs platform.
Before the latest expansion, roughly 30 bank branches nationwide were offering these services.
Government Targets 1,000 Service Points by 2028
The Home Affairs department is now moving to rapidly scale the programme.
Officials aim to expand Smart ID services to:
- 100 bank branches by mid-2026
- Up to 1,000 participating locations by 2028
Some banks are already planning major expansion. For example, First National Bank has reportedly identified around 240 branches that could eventually support Home Affairs services.
Part of South Africa’s Future Digital ID System
The new terminals also form part of South Africa’s broader move toward a national digital identity system, expected to be introduced later in 2026.
Future plans for the programme could include:
- Mobile app ID applications
- Passport processing at more bank branches
- Potential home delivery of identity documents
Government officials say the goal is to modernise identity services and reduce pressure on overcrowded Home Affairs offices, particularly in underserved areas.
For now, South Africans interested in applying for a Smart ID through the programme can check the eHomeAffairs portal or participating bank branches as the rollout continues to expand.
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