How to monitor the status of your smart ID or passport
Have you applied for a new ID or passport? You can easily track the progress of your application with a straightforward method.
Need a new ID or passport? Here’s how to easily track the progress of your Smart ID card or passport application using the Department of Home Affairs’ convenient track and trace system.
Track And Trace SMS System
To track your application, send an SMS with the word “ID,” followed by a space and your 13-digit ID number, to 32551. For passport applications, use “P” instead. Each SMS costs R1. Alternatively, you can call the Contact Centre at 0800 60 11 90.
Home Affairs offices operate from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 15:30 pm. They also open on Saturdays from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. On the last Wednesday of each month, they open from 9 am to 15:30 pm.
Improved ID Track-and-Trace System
The Department of Home Affairs has implemented a nationwide ID track-and-trace system. This system follows every application from submission to delivery. It helps managers monitor productivity and identify issues more efficiently.
Enhanced Customer Experience
The system, developed by external IT experts and government officials, reduces waiting times and opportunities for corruption. Each official is accountable for every step, ensuring transparency and security. This new process cuts down on the chances of illegal activities, such as fraudulent IDs and altered records.
Reducing Processing Times
Currently, it takes just 14 working days from the date of application to receive your Smart ID. The department aims to streamline these processes, improving turnaround times with better-trained staff and upgraded technology.