Form details

Lost ID affidavit

Banking & identity

If your South African ID is lost, first check whether you are applying for a Smart ID Card for the first time or replacing an ID. The lost-ID entries below cover specific first-time routes. Replacement applications have separate requirements for photos, fees, fingerprints and supporting papers.

Prepare your affidavit

No account needed. Your answers are used for this request. Save to your account only when you choose to.

Do not sign before the commissioner of oaths. Review your statement and sign in their presence. This PDF is not signed or certified.

As it should appear in your statement.
Use facts you know. State dates and names accurately; explain any uncertainty.
Use facts you know. State dates and names accurately; explain any uncertainty.

Official downloads

Apply for a Smart ID Card onlineehome.dha.gov.za Check Home Affairs feeswww.dha.gov.za

How to use it

  1. Select your application route Choose first-time issuance or replacement to match the application you are making. The lost-ID entries below relate to first-time Smart ID Card routes. Replacement details are set out separately.
  2. Check your fingerprint history Use your previous fingerprint submission to answer this item. The replacement instructions say to complete Form BI-9 as well if you have not previously submitted your fingerprints.
  3. Review supporting papers Think about documents that match your circumstances. The replacement instructions give a marriage certificate as an example for a married applicant.
  4. Prepare replacement photos Use this item for an ID or Smart Card replacement. Check the replacement section for the photo detail.
  5. Check the replacement fee Use this item for a lost, stolen or damaged ID replacement. Check the fee before you apply.

Document checklist

  1. Select your application route Mark whether you are applying for first-time Smart ID Card issuance or replacing an ID.
  2. Check your fingerprint history Check whether you have previously submitted your fingerprints.
  3. Review supporting papers Consider whether extra documents may apply to your circumstances.
  4. Prepare replacement photos Check the photo requirement if you are replacing an ID or Smart Card.
  5. Check the replacement fee Review the fee if you are replacing a lost, stolen or damaged ID.

Questions & answers

Who can apply for a South African identity document?

You can apply if you are a South African citizen or permanent resident aged 16 years or older.

What if I have not submitted fingerprints before?

For a replacement application, complete Form BI-9 as well if you have not previously submitted your fingerprints.

Can I ask for a temporary certificate when my ID is lost?

If your ID is lost, damaged or stolen, you may request a Temporary Identification Certificate (TIC). You can request it at any office of the Department of Home Affairs; the request is subject to the verification of your fingerprints.

What fee applies to a temporary certificate if my ID will not be ready before voting?

If your ID application will not be completed in time for you to vote, you can apply for a Temporary Identification Certificate. The fee in this situation is R70-00.

How can I receive progress updates by SMS?

Provide your cellphone number in your application for regular updates. You can also send “ID” followed by your ID number to 32551. Each SMS costs R1.

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More help

Sources

SmartIDrequirements.pdf

Apply for an identity document

Applying for an Identity Document

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