HOW-TO

How to Renew or Replace Your Smart ID Card

Renewing or replacing your Smart ID card in South Africa involves an online application, a fee payment, and a biometric appointment at a participating bank or Home Affairs office.

Step by step

1. Confirm you actually need a re-issueBecause the Smart ID card has no expiry date, you only re-apply if it is lost, stolen, badly damaged, or your legal details have changed. If your card is intact and your details are correct, you do not need to renew it.
2. Create or log in to eHomeAffairsGo to ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3 and register or sign in. You verify your mobile number with a one-time PIN. Home Affairs sends this OTP to you; never read it out to anyone who phones you claiming to be from the department or a bank.
3. Complete the application and pay onlineFill in the Smart ID application (Form BI-9) and pay the re-issue fee, about R140 as of 2026, by internet or mobile banking through a supported bank. Keep the payment confirmation.
4. Book a Live Capture slotChoose a participating bank branch (such as Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Investec or Discovery) or a Home Affairs office for your biometric appointment. Availability and which banks serve non-clients can change, so confirm before travelling.
5. Attend the Live Capture appointmentGo in person with your existing ID (or affidavit if lost), where staff take your fingerprints and photo. This step confirms your identity and cannot be done online.
6. Track and collect your cardYou can follow progress via SMS or the status service. Collect the new card from the branch or office where you applied. See our guide on checking your Home Affairs application status if there are delays.

How to Renew or Replace Your Smart ID Card is a common concern for South African citizens who need to update their identification due to loss, damage, or changes in personal details. The Smart ID card itself does not expire, but there are specific steps you must follow to re-issue it through the official channels.

This guide will walk you through the process of renewing or replacing your Smart ID card, whether you choose to apply online via eHomeAffairs or in person at a participating bank or Home Affairs office. We will cover the necessary steps, required documents, fees, and timelines to ensure a smooth application process.

Why Do I Need to Renew or Replace My Smart ID Card?

What Are the Requirements for Replacing a Smart ID Card?

What Are the Requirements for Replacing a Smart ID Card?

Replacing your Smart ID card is necessary under specific circumstances, even though the card itself does not have an expiration date. You need to apply for a re-issue if your card is lost, stolen, damaged, or if there are changes to your legal details such as your name or address. The process involves several steps and requirements that you must meet to successfully replace your Smart ID card.

Here are the key requirements and steps you need to follow:

• Application Submission: You must complete the Smart ID application form (Form BI-9) online via the eHomeAffairs portal at ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3. This form requires you to provide personal information and details about why you need a replacement card.
• Payment of Re-issue Fee: A fee of approximately R140 is required for the re-issue of a Smart ID card. This fee must be paid online through internet or mobile banking with a supported bank. Ensure you keep the payment confirmation as proof of payment.
• Biometric Data Capture: After submitting your application and paying the fee, you need to book a Live Capture appointment. This appointment is for capturing your fingerprints and photo and can be done at a participating bank or a Home Affairs office. Participating banks include Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Investec, and Discovery.
• Identity Verification: At the Live Capture appointment, you must bring your existing ID card or, if your card is lost, an affidavit detailing the loss. This step is crucial for identity verification and cannot be completed online.
• Tracking and Collection: Once your application is processed, you can track the status of your new card via SMS or the status service. You will collect your new Smart ID card from the branch or office where you applied.

To help you understand the requirements more clearly, here is a summary of the key details in a table:

By following these steps and ensuring you have all the necessary documents and information, you can efficiently replace your Smart ID card.

How Do I Apply for a Smart ID Card Replacement Online?

How Do I Apply for a Smart ID Card Replacement Online?

If your Smart ID card is lost, stolen, damaged, or if your personal details have changed, you will need to apply for a Smart ID card replacement. This process can be conveniently completed online through the eHomeAffairs portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

First, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for a Smart ID card replacement. You should apply for a replacement if your card is lost, stolen, badly damaged, or if there are changes to your legal details such as your name or address. If your card is still intact and your details are correct, there is no need to replace it as the Smart ID card does not expire.

To apply online, follow these steps:

• Visit the eHomeAffairs portal at ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3 and either register for a new account or log in if you already have one.
• Verify your mobile number using the one-time PIN (OTP) sent by the Department of Home Affairs. Never share this OTP with anyone, including individuals claiming to be from the department or a bank.
• Complete the Smart ID application form (Form BI-9) with the necessary details.
• Proceed to the payment section and pay the required re-issue fee, which is approximately R140 as of 2023. Payment can be made via internet or mobile banking through a supported bank. Ensure you keep the payment confirmation for your records.
• After completing the application and payment, book a Live Capture appointment at a participating bank branch or a Home Affairs office. This appointment is essential for capturing your fingerprints and photo. Participating banks include Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Investec, and Discovery. Availability may vary, so confirm before you travel.

Attend the Live Capture appointment in person with your existing ID (or an affidavit if your card is lost). Staff will take your fingerprints and photo, confirming your identity. This step cannot be completed online.

Once your application is processed, you can track the progress via SMS or the status service. Finally, collect your new Smart ID card from the branch or office where you applied.

What Is the Process for Booking a Live Capture Appointment?

What Is the Process for Booking a Live Capture Appointment?

After completing your Smart ID card application and making the necessary payment on the eHomeAffairs website, the next crucial step is to book a Live Capture appointment. This appointment is essential as it involves capturing your biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph, which is required for the re-issuance of your Smart ID card.

To book your Live Capture appointment, follow these steps:

• Choose a Location: Decide whether you want to visit a participating bank branch or a Home Affairs office. Participating banks include Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Investec, and Discovery. Note that availability and the option for non-clients to use bank services can vary, so it’s wise to confirm beforehand.
• Visit the eHomeAffairs Website: Go to ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3 and log in to your account. If you haven’t registered yet, you will need to create an account and verify your mobile number using the one-time PIN (OTP) sent by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Select a Date and Time: Once logged in, navigate to the section for booking a Live Capture appointment. You will be presented with available dates and times at your chosen location. Select a slot that is convenient for you.
• Confirm Your Appointment: After selecting your preferred date and time, confirm your booking. You will receive a confirmation message or email with the details of your appointment.

On the day of your appointment, ensure you bring your existing ID card or an affidavit if your card has been lost or stolen. This is necessary for the staff to verify your identity and proceed with the biometric data capture. The process is quick and efficient, ensuring your new Smart ID card is processed without delay.

By following these steps, you can successfully book and attend your Live Capture appointment, bringing you one step closer to receiving your new Smart ID card.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Smart ID Card?

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Smart ID Card?

Replacing your Smart ID card involves a specific fee and a clear process to confirm your identity and details. The cost to re-issue a Smart ID card is currently set at R140, as of 2023. This fee applies whether your card was lost, stolen, damaged, or if your legal details have changed. The Smart ID card itself does not have an expiry date, so you only need to replace it under these specific circumstances.

To apply for a replacement, you will need to complete the following steps:

• Visit the official eHomeAffairs website at ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3 and register or log in to your account.
• Verify your mobile number using the one-time PIN (OTP) sent by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Fill out the Smart ID application form (Form BI-9) and make the online payment of R140 through internet or mobile banking with a supported bank.
• Book a Live Capture appointment at a participating bank branch or a Home Affairs office to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

Here is a summary of the key details regarding the replacement process and cost:

Remember, the Smart ID card replacement process is necessary only if your card is lost, stolen, damaged, or if your legal details have changed. If your card is intact and your details are correct, there is no need to replace it. Keep your payment confirmation and attend the Live Capture appointment in person to complete the process.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a New Smart ID Card?

How Long Does It Take to Receive a New Smart ID Card?

Once you have successfully applied for a new Smart ID card, the processing time can vary depending on the method of application and the current workload of the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). Generally, it takes about 5 to 10 working days to receive your new Smart ID card after completing the Live Capture process. This timeline assumes that there are no complications with your application and that all your details are correctly submitted.

To ensure a smooth process, follow these steps:

• Apply Online: Start by applying online through the eHomeAffairs portal at ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3. You will need to register or log in and verify your mobile number with a one-time PIN sent by the DHA.
• Pay the Re-issue Fee: Complete the Smart ID application form (Form BI-9) and make the payment of approximately R140. Keep the payment confirmation as proof.
• Book a Live Capture Appointment: Schedule a Live Capture appointment at a participating bank or a Home Affairs office. This is where your fingerprints and photo will be taken. Participating banks include Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Investec, and Discovery.
• Attend the Appointment: Go to your appointment with your existing ID or an affidavit if your card is lost. The staff will capture your biometrics, which is crucial for identity verification.
• Track Your Application: Use the SMS tracking service or the status check feature on the eHomeAffairs portal to monitor the progress of your application.
• Collect Your New Card: Once your new Smart ID card is ready, you can collect it from the branch or office where you applied.

If you are wondering about the documents, requirements, fees, and eligibility, here is a quick reference table:

Remember, the Smart ID card does not expire, so you only need to re-issue it under specific circumstances. Always confirm the current fee on the official DHA website at dha.gov.za before applying.

What Should I Do If My Smart ID Card Is Lost or Stolen?

What Should I Do If My Smart ID Card Is Lost or Stolen?

If your Smart ID card is lost or stolen, You should act quickly to protect your identity and apply for a replacement. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

First, you need to confirm that a re-issue is necessary. Remember, the Smart ID card does not have an expiry date, so you only need to apply for a new one if it is lost, stolen, badly damaged, or if your legal details have changed. If your card is still intact and your details are correct, you do not need to renew it.

To apply for a replacement Smart ID card, follow these steps:

• Create or log in to eHomeAffairs: Visit ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3 and register or sign in. You will need to verify your mobile number with a one-time PIN sent by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Complete the application and pay online: Fill in the Smart ID application form (Form BI-9) and pay the re-issue fee, which is currently about R140 as of 2023. Payment can be made via internet or mobile banking through a supported bank. Keep the payment confirmation for your records.
• Book a Live Capture appointment: Choose a participating bank branch (such as Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Investec, or Discovery) or a Home Affairs office for your biometric appointment. Availability and which banks serve non-clients can vary, so confirm before you travel.
• Attend the Live Capture appointment: Go in person with your existing ID (or an affidavit if your card was lost) to the selected location. Staff will take your fingerprints and photo. This step is essential as it confirms your identity and cannot be done online.

After completing these steps, you can track the progress of your application via SMS or the status service. Once your new card is ready, you can collect it from the branch or office where you applied.

Here is a summary of the key details:

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth process for replacing your lost or stolen Smart ID card.

CluedUp is an independent guide and is not affiliated with any government agency. Fees, links and steps can change — always confirm on the official portal before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.