Green ID Book End Date: Production Stops 31 March 2027, Invalid From 2028
The Key Dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Now until 31 March 2027 | Green ID books are still issued and still valid |
| 31 March 2027 | Production of green ID books stops for good |
| 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2028 | Green ID books are still valid, but you should switch to a Smart ID |
| From 31 March 2028 | Green ID books are no longer accepted as valid ID |
Your green ID book stays valid until 31 March 2028. You do not need to panic, but do not leave it to the last month, when queues are likely to be long.
Why Is the Green ID Book Being Phased Out?
The green ID book is paper-based, with a photo stuck in by hand. Home Affairs says it is one of the most defrauded identity documents, and that it is used in identity theft and fraud. The Smart ID card has security features that make it much harder to copy.
Who Needs to Act?
You need to get a Smart ID card if you only have a green barcoded ID book. If you already have a Smart ID card, you do not need to do anything.
Before 31 March 2027, Home Affairs plans to make Smart ID cards available to the remaining naturalised citizens and permanent residents, and to South African citizens living abroad.
How Much Does a Smart ID Card Cost?
| Who | Fee |
|---|---|
| First-time applicants | Free |
| People aged 60 and older | Free |
| Replacing a green ID book with a Smart ID | R140 |
Some banks that offer Smart ID services add a small service fee on top of the Home Affairs fee. Ask your bank before you book.
How to Replace Your Green ID Book With a Smart ID
- Choose where to apply: a Home Affairs office that issues Smart IDs, or a bank branch that offers Home Affairs services.
- Book an appointment online first. For a Home Affairs office, use the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), explained in our Home Affairs online booking guide. For a bank branch, follow the booking steps on eHomeAffairs or on your bank’s website.
- Take your green ID book with you to the appointment.
- Your fingerprints and photo are taken digitally, and you pay the fee if one applies.
- Wait for an SMS saying your card is ready, then collect it where you applied.
For more on the card itself, see South African Smart ID card.
What If You Do Not Switch in Time?
After 31 March 2028, the green ID book will not be accepted as valid ID. You could struggle with things that need an ID, such as banking, applying for a grant, getting a job, or other government services. Getting your Smart ID early avoids this.
Can You Still Vote With a Green ID Book?
Yes. The green ID book is still valid, so you can use it to vote in the local government elections on 4 November 2026.
Green ID Book Questions
When does the green ID book expire?
Production stops on 31 March 2027. The green ID book stops being valid ID from 31 March 2028.
Is my green ID book still valid now?
Yes. It is valid until 31 March 2028.
How much does it cost to change a green ID book to a Smart ID?
R140 at Home Affairs. People aged 60 and older pay nothing. Some banks add a small service fee.
Can I apply for a Smart ID at a bank?
Yes, at bank branches that offer Home Affairs services. Book an appointment online before you go.
How many people still have only a green ID book?
About 14.7 million citizens and permanent residents, according to Home Affairs.
One Comment
Comments are closed.