Election warning for South Africans without valid IDs

South Africans who are eligible to vote, but still need an identity document (ID), are being urged to apply for and collect their documents ahead of the Local Government Elections in November 2026.

The Department of Home Affairs says citizens should not wait until the last minute to obtain the documents they need to participate in the elections.

Available at 450 bank branches

Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said a valid ID remains essential for democratic participation.

“A valid ID holds the key to democratic participation in the upcoming elections,” Schreiber said.

The department has expanded access to Smart ID services, with digitalised applications now available at more than 450 participating bank branches.

Schreiber urged eligible South Africans to take advantage of the expanded services.

“I call upon South Africans to make use of our vastly improved services to apply for – and collect – their IDs without delay.”

Already applied? Collect your ID

Home Affairs is also reminding citizens who have already applied for an ID but have not yet collected it to do so as soon as possible.

Those who need to replace a lost or damaged identity document can make use of Home Affairs offices or one of the participating bank branches.

The department said the expanded network was designed to make the process more accessible and help citizens secure their documents well before the elections.

South Africans can use the Home Affairs online portal to locate their nearest participating bank branch.

Home Affairs is also encouraging citizens who already have valid identity documents to remind family members, friends and colleagues who do not yet have Smart IDs to apply and collect their documents ahead of the elections.

Date

With the local government elections approaching, the department is urging citizens to deal with outstanding ID applications sooner rather than later to avoid a last-minute rush.

The local government elections will take place on Wednesday, 4 November 2026.

The day has been declared a public holiday.

Have you got all your required documentation in order ahead of the elections?