Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber plans to phase out the green ID book by expanding smart ID access via digital platforms and bank partnerships to improve security and convenience.
As South Africa gears up to phase out the green barcoded ID book, a crucial question looms over the future of the country’s elderly and bedridden citizens who are unable to travel to Department of Home Affairs offices to apply for Smart IDs.
The transition to biometric Smart IDs is designed to eradicate fraudulent practices associated with the current ID system, but it raises alarming concerns about accessibility for vulnerable populations.
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that the phasing out of the green ID book is part of a larger initiative to implement a fully digital identity system. Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber has communicated that the government is “rapidly moving” towards this goal, citing the vulnerabilities of the current ID books to fraud and organised crime.
Furthermore, President Cyril Ramaphosa has hinted that a definitive cut-off date will be established when the green ID book will no longer be accepted.
