South Africans can now look forward to even more banks offering passport and Smart ID services, as yet another bank has joined the party.
As reported by BusinessTech, Capitec Bank has confirmed plans to introduce Smart ID and passport services at select branches starting later this year.
The rollout will begin with 10 branches and expand to 100 by early 2026.
Capitec launches Smart ID services
The announcement follows Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber’s confirmation that both Capitec and FNB have joined the Department of Home Affairs’ (DHA) digital transformation initiative.
Initially, the service will only be available in-branch, but Capitec says customers can expect app-based applications and home delivery options in the future.
The bank also plans to prioritise locations currently underserved by the DHA and other banks.
At present, most Smart ID services offered through partner banks are concentrated in major urban centres. Capitec’s expansion aims to reach communities outside these hubs as more branches come online.
How the service will work
From October this year, select Capitec branches will follow this process:
- Photo capture – If the DHA does not have a suitable ID photo on record, customers can use a dedicated Smart ID terminal at participating branches.
- Biometric verification – Customers enter their ID number, have their photo taken, and the system verifies their identity against the DHA database in real time.
- Collection – Smart IDs will be ready for collection at the same branch within a few weeks.
Future updates will include passport renewal services, app-based applications, and home delivery options. Capitec says further details on this will be released in the coming days.
Have you used these services at any bank branch yet? How was your experience?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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