Smart IDs for new applicants first

Kwakanya Ndleleni

NELSON Mandela Bay first-time ID applicants will be the first in line for identity smart cards, which were rolled out this week.

The Home Affairs Department started issuing the smart card IDs on February 1. They replace the green barcoded ID book, which will be phased out over the next six to seven years.

For first-time applicants, aged 16 and above, and pensioners who are over 60, the smart card IDs will be issued free.

"The cost for all other applicants [re issue for those with the old green books] will be R140," Home Affairs director of media relations David Hlabane said.

In the Eastern Cape, the smart card IDs will be available in Port Elizabeth, Mthatha and King William's Town.

The Home Affairs Department has entered into an agreement with the Independent Electoral Commission that smart card IDs, green ID books and temporary identity certificates can be used as forms of identity when voting.

"We have gone past the pilot phase," Hlabane said.

"If you visit any of the 28 revamped offices, you will be issued with the new smart card ID." He said the department was moving towards using the technology to strengthen efficiency, eliminate fraud and secure the identity of legitimate residents of South Africa.

He also said "this was part of our overarching drive for the restoration, to all of the people, of their legitimate right to citizenship and dignity".