South Africans who still carry the familiar green barcoded ID book are being urged to replace it with a Smart ID card before the document is officially discontinued.
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has intensified its call for citizens to make the switch, warning that the green ID book has become increasingly vulnerable to fraud. Once the final discontinuation date is announced, those who have not transitioned may face inconvenience and potential security risks.
While the Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that the green barcoded ID book is being phased out in favour of the Smart ID card, there is currently no official announcement that the green ID book will immediately become invalid in March 2026. Home Affairs has indicated that production of the green ID book will be discontinued as part of its modernisation drive, with the broader aim of ensuring that all eligible South Africans have Smart ID cards by 31 December 2029. This means existing green ID books remain valid for now, although citizens are being strongly encouraged to apply for Smart ID cards to reduce fraud risks and prepare for the eventual full transition.
Introduced in 1994 at the dawn of South Africa’s democracy, the green ID book symbolised a new era of dignity and inclusion. However, more than three decades later, it is being phased out in favour of the more secure Smart ID card. According to Home Affairs, the green book is significantly more prone to fraud and has become a frequent target for criminal activity.
To speed up the transition, the department has expanded nationwide access to Smart ID services. Citizens can apply at Home Affairs branches, participating bank branches, mobile service units, and satellite offices located in busy areas such as major shopping malls. The bank partnership system, in particular, has received positive feedback from the public.
A Facebook comment about the experience at one of the participating banks stated that the process was quick and efficient, that the consultants were friendly, and that the bank option was a smoother alternative to visiting Home Affairs offices.
The DHA has reported significant progress in issuing Smart ID cards, recording its highest-ever annual total in 2025. The department aims to retire the green ID book completely once it reaches its target of 38 million Smart IDs issued.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber has attributed the accelerated rollout to the department’s digital transformation efforts, saying the milestone reflects expanded inclusion and improved service delivery.
As the phase-out gathers pace, the message from Home Affairs is clear: green ID book holders should act now, secure their Smart ID cards, and avoid being left behind when the old document officially comes to an end.
