Smart ID services to be brought closer to communities
FNB is proud to announce that it is on track to launch Smart ID Card application services, following successful testing. The service will soon be made available to the public, marking a significant milestone in FNB’s longstanding collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
This expansion follows the DHA’s announcement earlier this year of a new digital partnership model enabling banks to connect directly to the DHA’s back-end systems for faster, more reliable processing for further reach. This advancement allows South Africans to apply for the re-issuance of Smart ID cards directly through FNB branches, and in the future via their FNB Banking App.
Harry Kellan, CEO of FNB added, “We are incredibly proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to going live with this expanded capability. I want to commend the dedicated teams across FNB and our partners who have worked tirelessly to bring this to life. Smart ID Cards are essential for accessing vital services, securing employment, and participating fully in the economy. With the DHA’s modernised technology, we can now reach millions more South Africans through our infrastructure and that is what real help is all about.”
FNB has plans to scale the service to over 240 branches over the next year as part of a national expansion programme. Branches where the service is available will be updated on the FNB website and App as we continue to enable more branches every week going forward.
Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber, said: “This progress with FNB represents another important step in our Home Affairs @ Home reform programme to bring dignity, convenience and security to how South Africans access identity services. By connecting banks directly to our digital systems, we are laying the foundation to expand access to Smart ID services through trusted institutions that people already use every day. Partnerships like this will help us modernise Home Affairs, strengthen the integrity of our national identity system, and make it easier for every South Africans to obtain the documents they need to participate fully in society and the economy.”
FNB’s participation builds on a successful collaboration with the DHA dating back to 2015, during which the bank has issued more than 570,000 Smart IDs and Passports via seven designated branches. This includes over 258 000 Smart IDs and over 312 000 passports, reflecting strong demand and proven operational capability. This service will continue for customers that require a passport or a first-time issuance of a Smart ID Card.
“Our branch network plays a vital role in reaching communities that have historically struggled to access Home Affairs services. This expansion will allow us to bring essential identity solutions closer to our customers’ doorsteps, ensuring inclusive access regardless of where they live.” adds Zibu Nqala, CEO of FNB Points of Presence.
This activation makes it easier for South Africans to access critical Home Affairs services, dramatically reducing queues, travel time, and administrative friction. Customers can now complete their applications at selected FNB branches, with digital channels being phased in to further simplify the process.
During the initial phase, clients will pay only the standard DHA application fee of R140, with no additional convenience or logistics fees applied. “As we grow this capability across the country, our priority is to ensure that more South Africans, in every province and community, can access secure identity services with ease. We are excited about the role that this initiative will play in building a more inclusive future for all South Africans.” concluded Nqala.
Apiwe Mjambane
Soweto Sunrise News
