FNB enhances customer experience with Smart ID-enabled branches in South Africa
Smart ID services launched at selected FNB branches, expanding to 16 locations by the end of April
FNB is proud to announce the launch of its Department of Home Affairs (DHA) Smart ID Card application services at four newly enabled FNB branches. This forms part of a phased national rollout, which will see the service expanded to 16 locations by the end of April 2026, building on FNB’s seven existing DHA-enabled branches.
This launch aligns with the DHA’s new digital partnership model, which allows South Africans to apply for the re‑issuance of Smart ID cards at selected FNB branches, with digital channels planned for future rollout.
FNB CEO Lytania Johnson says, “This expansion means more people can access Home Affairs services closer to home, making everyday admin simpler and more convenient through our Smart ID‑enabled branches. This demonstrates what is possible when the public and private sectors work together. By the end of April, we will have enabled 16 branches that deliver real help to communities by making important public services easier to access.”
While FNB plans to scale the service to over 240 branches over the next year, the service is currently available at the following branches that will allow walk-ins and no appointments are necessary:
- FNB Woodmead Branch, Gauteng
- FNB Lakeside Mall, Gauteng
- FNB Krugersdorp, Gauteng
- FNB Pretoria CBD, Gauteng
Branch availability will be updated regularly on the FNB website and Banking App as additional locations are enabled.
Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, added, “We are pleased with the progress achieved through this collaboration with FNB, which is expanding access to Smart ID services in a practical and impactful way. By connecting banks directly to our digital systems, the Home Affairs @ Home reform programme is modernising how South Africans access identity services with greater convenience and security.”
FNB’s participation builds on a successful collaboration with the DHA dating back to 2015, during which the bank has issued more than 570,000 Smart IDs and passports via seven designated branches. This includes over 258,000 Smart IDs and more than 312,000 passports, reflecting strong demand and proven operational capability. This service will continue for customers who require a passport or a first-time issuance of a Smart ID Card by appointment only via the DHA’s website.
Zibu Nqala, CEO of FNB Points of Presence, says, “Our branch network plays a vital role in reaching communities that have historically struggled to access Home Affairs services. Starting with four enabled branches and expanding to 16 locations by the end of April allows us to steadily bring essential identity solutions closer to our customers’ doorsteps, ensuring inclusive access regardless of where they live.”
During the initial phase, customers will pay only the standard DHA application fee of R140, with no additional fees.
“As we continue to scale this capability nationally, our focus remains on expanding access to secure identity services for South Africans across all communities. This initiative underscores our commitment to inclusive access and highlights the important role our branch network plays in supporting national priorities,” concluded Nqala.
