Can I get a copy of my ID online in South Africa?

This service is rendered by the Department of Home Affairs.  Information on how to apply for an identity document is available on the Services section of this website in all South African official languages. 

You can also apply for your ID using the online service at ehome.dha.gov.za/echannel

Accessing ID-Related Services Online

1. ID Application Status

You can check the status of your ID application online through the DHA website. This service allows you to track the progress of your new or replacement ID application.

2. eHomeAffairs

The eHomeAffairs platform enables South African citizens to apply for their Smart ID cards and passports, book appointments at Home Affairs offices, and perform other related services online. While it doesn’t provide a digital copy of your ID, it’s a crucial tool for managing aspects of your identity documentation without visiting a Home Affairs office in person.

Steps to Obtain a Replacement ID

If you’ve lost your ID or need a replacement for any reason, here’s how you can apply for one:

1. Report the Loss (if applicable)

  • If your ID has been lost, stolen, or damaged, it’s important to report the incident to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and obtain a case number. This will be needed for your application for a replacement ID.

2. Visit a Department of Home Affairs Office or Bank

  • While the initial reporting can’t be done entirely online, you can use the eHomeAffairs website to facilitate the process. You’ll need to visit a Home Affairs office or one of the participating banks if you’re applying for a Smart ID card.

3. Complete the Application

  • Fill out the BI-9 form, available at Home Affairs offices or online, which is required for applying for an ID for the first time or requesting a re-issue.

4. Submit Required Documents and Pay the Fee

  • You will need to provide your birth certificate, a copy of your police report (if your previous ID was lost or stolen), and pay the prescribed fee for a replacement ID. The fee amount and accepted payment methods can be found on the DHA website or obtained directly from the office.

5. Biometrics

  • As part of the application process for a replacement ID, you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken and a photograph captured, which must be done in person.

Online Verification Services

For verification purposes or when you need to prove your identity online, certain services and third-party platforms may offer online ID verification. This typically involves entering your ID number and possibly other personal information. While not a copy of your ID, these services can help confirm your identity for various online applications and registrations.

While you cannot obtain a digital copy of your South African ID online, the Department of Home Affairs offers several online services to manage your ID application and other related needs. For a replacement ID, you will need to follow the official application process, which includes in-person steps. Always ensure that your personal information is secure when accessing ID-related services online and follow the latest updates from the DHA for any new services or changes to existing procedures.


Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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