Capitec Smart ID services may soon be part of the bank’s offering. The bank, which serves millions of South Africans, has confirmed ongoing discussions with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). The talks focus on enabling customers to apply for Smart IDs and passports directly at selected Capitec branches. While no official start date is set, the move would enhance convenience and expand access to essential government services.
DHA’s Plan to Expand Smart ID Access
The DHA has set an ambitious target of equipping 1 000 bank branches with live-capture technology by 2030. In the current financial year, the goal is to activate 100 branches. Of these, 40 should go live between October and December 2025, with the remaining 60 operational by March 2026.
The pilot programme currently runs in about 30 branches nationwide. The DHA also aims to integrate Smart ID and passport applications into banking apps. Future plans include home delivery of documents, supported by secure facial recognition technology.
Why Capitec’s Role is Significant
Capitec’s inclusion in the Smart ID programme would be a major step forward. The bank operates more than 860 branches across South Africa, giving it one of the largest physical networks in the country. This reach could help the DHA meet its expansion targets faster and serve communities that may not have easy access to Home Affairs offices.
Other major banks, including Absa, FNB, Standard Bank, Nedbank, Investec and Discovery Bank, are already part of the current pilot. Adding Capitec would not only boost coverage but also give millions of its clients a more convenient way to apply for vital documents.
A Shift in How IDs are Issued
The potential rollout of Capitec Smart ID services signals a shift toward modern, integrated service delivery. Combining government functions with bank infrastructure could reduce waiting times, improve efficiency, and make it easier for citizens to manage key identity documents.
Although Capitec has yet to confirm its official participation, the scale of the DHA’s expansion plans suggests South Africans could soon see Smart ID services in more branches than ever before.
