Wise up to the new Smart ID

THERE has been massive confusion with regards to the application processes for the country’s new Smart ID cards.

Some members of the public had reported that they were able to apply for their new Smart ID cards by going onto the Department of Home Affairs dedicated online portal.

However, Dean McPherson, member of parliament and former Durban North ward councillor, confirmed last week that the portal had not been finalised or launched.

What’s more, he said that contrary to reports, first-time applicants will not be able to use the portal. These applicants will have to apply for their new cards at their nearest Home Affairs office as the process requires the capturing of ‘biometric data’ such as one’s fingerprints.

“Once this has been done, it should not take longer than 10 working days for the card to be issued. Should you need to re-apply for a new card, you will then be able to use the online portal to do so, saving you the trip to home affairs,” he explained.

While there is no cut-off date for the acquisition of these new ID cards, McPherson encouraged the Durban community to apply for theirs as soon as possible.

“It is virtually impossible to clone the cards and saves you having to carry the old ID books around. ID cards are also accepted at voting stations, making it easier to vote,” he said.

First time applications will pay R140. Children and senior citizens will be able to apply for free.Wise up to the new Smart ID