Changed your surname? Here’s how to get a new Smart ID

Changed your surname after getting married, divorced or for another reason? There are two separate steps to getting a Smart ID with your new details.

First, your surname must be officially changed or recorded by Home Affairs. Only after that has been approved and updated on the National Population Register can you apply for a new Smart ID.

Step 1: Change or record your surname

The process depends on why your surname is changing.

If it is because of a marriage or civil union, you can generally record your chosen surname with Home Affairs when the marriage is registered or afterwards. You may take your spouse’s surname, retain your own or use a double-barrelled surname.

If you are reverting to a previous surname after divorce, you can request the change using your divorce decree.

For other surname changes, you will need to submit a formal application explaining the reason for the change and provide supporting documents.

Home Affairs then processes the application and, once approved, records the new surname on the National Population Register.

Step 2: Apply for your new Smart ID

This comes after the surname change has been processed.

Once your new surname appears on your Home Affairs record, you can apply for a replacement Smart ID reflecting the updated details.

For a marriage- or divorce-related change, take your current Smart ID and relevant marriage certificate or divorce decree when required.

For other surname changes, keep your Home Affairs approval documentation, as you may need it to support the replacement application.

The Smart ID is therefore not what changes your surname. Home Affairs first changes the official record; the new Smart ID then reflects that change.

Step 3: Update your other records

Once you have your new Smart ID, there is still some admin to do.

You may need to update your passport, driver’s licence, SARS and eFiling profile, bank accounts, medical aid, employer records, insurance, vehicle registration and property or bond records.

Keeping the same surname across these records makes it easier for organisations to verify your identity.

Can you still apply for the new ID card at a bank branch?

Yes. Once your surname has been updated by Home Affairs, you can use a participating bank branch that offers Smart ID services, provided the branch accepts your type of application.

Home Affairs has expanded its Smart ID services through participating banks, making it possible for eligible applicants to complete the application and biometric process at certain branches rather than visiting a Home Affairs office.

However, bank services and the types of applications they handle can differ between branches, so it is worth checking that the specific branch offers Smart ID re-issues before going.

How long does it take?

The timeframe depends on the type of surname change and whether Home Affairs needs additional verification.

Some applications can take weeks or longer.

If you need a new passport for international travel, it is also important to allow enough time for the surname change and subsequent document updates.