Governance
Status:
inprogress
Promise
Accelerate digital transformation across the state
Promise History
Expansion of Smart ID Services Through Bank Branch Partnerships
The Department of Home Affairs expanded its partnership with the banking sector to increase access to Smart ID services. By mid-2026, Smart ID replacement services had been rolled out to 252 bank branches, processing more than 300,000 applications within four months. The Department also announced plans to expand the network to 750 bank branches by the end of 2026.
As part of its digital transformation programme, the Department issued a record four million Smart ID cards during the 2025/26 financial year and published draft regulations for a secure Digital Identity system. These reforms aim to improve access to Home Affairs services, reduce processing times, and replace the green barcoded ID book with the more secure Smart ID card.
South African GovernmentPublished: July 3, 2026
Gazetting of the Screen Talent and Global Entertainment Scheme (STAGES)
The Department of Home Affairs gazetted the Screen Talent and Global Entertainment Scheme (STAGES) in November 2025, introducing a fully digital platform to process applications for film and creative productions. The system replaces a paper-based process that previously required extensive forms and lengthy approval times, and can now deliver outcomes within 24 hours.
South African GovernmentPublished: November 13, 2025
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