How much does it cost to: Replace a lost Smart ID card in SA?

September 17, 2026 · The South African

One of the most stressful part of having your purse or wallet stollen is knowing you have likely lost your Smart ID.

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Take a look at what South Africans can expect to pay to get a replacement Smart ID through the Department of Home Affairs or via you bank.

COST OF REPLACING YOUR SMART ID IN SOUTH AFRICA

Replacing a lost, stolen, damaged, or defaced Smart ID card costs R140.

This is a standardised fee set by Home Affairs that applies regardless of the reason for replacement. This is the same fee whether you’re replacing a lost card, upgrading a second time after already converting from a green ID book, or correcting incorrect details on a previous application.

The fee is non-refundable, even if your original card later turns up.

However, the R140 only covers the card reissue itself. Budget for a few extra costs on top.

If applying at a Home Affairs office rather than the free digital capture process, you may need a passport-style photo (roughly R50 to R100), plus travel costs to your nearest branch. So, most South Africans should budget somewhere between R200 to R250 as a total cost.

If you are planning on replacing your smart ID at the bank, the cost remains the same at R140 in most banks including Absa, Standard Bank, FNB and Nedbank.

Capitec charges R10 extra. So, R150, this is due to a service fee.

ESSENTIAL RULES FOR BANK REPLACEMENTS OF SMART ID CARDS

Some branches allow walk-ins without a booking. However, certain banks require you to hold an active transactional account with them to process the digital payment.
Banks do not accept cash for this service. The fee must be paid digitally via your banking app, internet banking portal, or a linked card at the branch.
ou do not need to bring printed photos or identity documents. Your biometrics (photo, fingerprints, and signature) are captured live at the branch terminal.
If you are a senior citizen (aged 60 or older) and are replacing your old green barcoded ID book with a Smart ID for the first time, it will be free. However, if you are replacing a lost or stolen Smart ID card you already owned, you will need to pay the standard R140 fee.

THE R70 BRIDGING OPTION

If you need proof of identity urgently for purposes of travel, starting a new job, or collecting a grant then you have another option.

While your new card is being processed, a Temporary Identity Certificate (TIC) costs R70.

This will remain valid for two months.

It is accepted by most banks, employers and government departments, though it’s worth confirming acceptance with specific institutions beforehand.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED AND HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE

Also before heading to Home Affairs, you’ll need to report the loss or theft at your nearest SAPS station and obtain a case number and affidavit.

This is required documentation for the replacement application, regardless of whether the card was lost or stolen. You’ll also need your original birth certificate and a completed Form BI-9.

A replacement Smart ID typically takes 14 to 21 working days to process.

However, though additional security checks which are designed to prevent fraudulent use of a lost card can result in this taking longer.

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