Smart IDs are here
Security benefits of having such an ID including playing a role in the fight against identity theft and fraud.
Out with the old green bar-coded identity document, and in with the new Smart Card IDs that are now being rolled out in Dundee…
Said Thokozani Makhubu, District Office Manager for Home Affairs: “These new Smart Card IDs require minimal administration, as there is no filling out of forms or signing of numerous documents, or taking of ID photographs.” He also stressed the security benefits of having such an ID, and added that they will play a role in the fight against identity theft and fraud.
The new Smart Card IDs will be available at a fixed price of R140 to people who are between the ages of 16 to 60, and will be issued free to people who are 60 and above. People who fall into the category of 60 and above are encouraged to apply, as it is not only free but they will receive assistance with their application, just as 102-year-old Makhala Mchunu from Sibongile did.
SMS notification
Mr Mchunu and his wife were taken through the process, which entails the ‘meeter-greeter’ stage, where identities are verified and screened for duplication. Thereafter payment is made (however, payment is not applicable to pensioners). Photographs are then taken at the photo booth at no cost to you, and after payment has been made the photographs are instantaneous and reflect on the main computer immediately. Thereafter the person is instructed to sign, and is asked to verify all details by means of thumb prints. This is followed by an SMS notification
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The waiting period is two weeks, and applications for passports can accompany the initial application for the Smart Card ID. Thokozani urges the community to ‘come forth and apply’. He further advised the community to notify Home Affairs if there is a change in contact details, as this affects the delivery of the Smart Card ID.
“The new Smart Card ID is believed to be an efficient revolutionary in identity, and future plans for the improvement of the card have been put in place,” Thokozani stated. “Home Affairs is currently trying to come up with a new identification system that will collaborate various institutes such as banks: this process will be instituted after the latter registration has ended, which is set to be in December 2015.”
The new Smart Card IDs are set to replace the old original green bar-coded IDs, however, the exact date for the green barcoded IDs to be phased out is still unclear at this point, and are still deemed valid until then.
