There’s nothing worse than spending your morning at Home Affairs – because that’s what you will no doubt be doing if you want to apply for an ultra cool new Smart ID Card.

But no worries, bro, Home Affairs totally gets this and they have delivered – here’s the Public Service Announcement to prove it.

A while back they partnered up with banks to make the process far easier, but soon realised that everyone is actually online. So now, Home Affairs has made a part of the application process online, providing a lovely portal on their website.

Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba said the department was trying to expand its footprint and make it convenient for people to apply.

The entire process is paperless and digitised and there is no human intervention along the line.

However, you will still need to get up from your desk before your ID makes its way to you – you have to pop down to your local bank or Home Affairs to register your photographs and fingerprints.

Then, to receive it you will have to go to your nearest Home Affairs to pick it up which won’t take long at all.

Here’s how to apply:

Step 1: Go on to the e-Home Affairs website and register. To register, you will need to:

• Complete personal details;
• Create a password, and;
• Answer various questions for security purposes.

Step 2: You will receive an OTP (one-time pin) to confirm your cellphone number. Enter it in, and click submit.

Step 3: You will receive another OTP to login to your profile.

Step 4: Complete your application form for a smart ID card. The fields marked in red are mandatory.

Step 5: It is optional to upload the listed, supporting documents. The originals will be required when visiting a bank branch.

Step 6: You can make an online payment or choose to pay at a branch of a bank. An online payment means you need to log on to your bank’s payment system to complete the transfer. The smart ID card costs R140.

Step 7: Book a slot at a bank that has the Home Affairs service available for your biometrics to be captured. But remember:

• Booking an appointment is needed for a visit to a bank.
• No booking is needed if you are going to a Home Affairs office.

Step 8: Print out your confirmation letter.

Step 9: Remember to take your confirmation letter and your green barcoded ID book when going to the bank to capture your biometrics.

Step 10: You will receive a SMS notifying when your card is ready for collection at the bank

Hmmm. Still sounds like a mission, don’t get me wrong, but definitely way worth the Home Affairs wait.

[source:southafrica]