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Dear Home Affairs: You’re impeding the Tshitukas’ Springbok selection!

Bureaucratic procedures and a whole lot of red tape are the only things standing between Vincent and Emmanuel Tshituka and potential call-ups to the Springboks squad this year.

To the average local sports fan, the Tshituka’s are just a set of brothers casually dominating rugby games for the Lions and Sharks, respectively.

But there’s way more to their story and in order for them to reach their potential on the rugby field, the South African government in general, and the Department of Home Affairs in particular, need to come to the party.

THE BACKSTORY

Vincent Tshituka was born in Kinshasa, the capital city of conflict-ridden Democratic Republic of the Congo, and two years later his brother Emmanuel came into this world.

But because the resource-rich country was — and still is — ravaged by a decades-long conflict which has led to the deaths and displacement of the majority of its indigenous people, the Tshituka family decided to make the arduous, and not to mention dangerous, 2825km trek from Kinshasa to Johannesburg in search of a better life in 2002.

Fast forward to 2024, and the Tshituka brothers have managed to not only integrate perfectly into South African life, but they have become two of the most recognisable and adorned sporting heroes in the country. And yet, after 22 years in South Africa, they still officially documented as Congolese refugees, despite numerous attempts to gain citizenship.

DEAR HOME AFFAIRS: LET THE TSHITUKA BROTHERS PLAY

The fight with the South African government has just taken on another dimension and a new meaning now that there is more on the line than just official citizenship.

Tshituka’s are playing some of the best rugby of their careers this season for the Sharks and Lions, respectively, and based on form alone, they could well have been in the conversation for Springbok selection had it not been for Home Affairs’ bureaucratic procedures.

And with Emmanuel set to leave the Lions and link-up with his brother at the Sharks later this year, the Durban-franchise has already indicated that will be anything in their power to help expedite the process in order to allow the duo to push for inclusion in Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks squad this year.

If by some miracle the Tshituka brothers are granted South African citizenship soon, they could well become the players the greatest storyline in Springbok history.

Dear Home Affairs, please let it happen.

Give the people what they want and rubber-stamp the Tshituka’s paperwork.

Simplified Smart ID Online Application: Your Guide to eHomeAffairs

Table of Contents

The South African Department of Home Affairs has introduced the eHomeAffairs portal, which is a significant advancement in streamlining the Smart ID online application process. This detailed guide delves into the user-friendly features of the platform, making Smart ID and passport applications convenient and accessible at just a click of a button.

What is eHomeAffairs?

In the era of digital convenience, accessing government services online has become indispensable. The South African Department of Home Affairs has innovatively responded to this trend by developing the eHomeAffairs platform. This system simplifies the Smart ID online application process, enabling South African citizens to handle their applications efficiently from their digital devices.

Services Offered

The eHomeAffairs portal offers several essential services:

Smart ID Online Application and Passport Applications: Users can easily submit their Smart ID and passport applications online without initially visiting a Home Affairs office.
Online Payments: The platform allows for secure online payments for the Smart ID online application.
Booking Appointments: the portal also enables users to book appointments for necessary biometric capturing at Home Affairs or bank offices.

Important Note

While the Smart ID online application process is primarily online, applicants must visit a Home Affairs branch or a Home Affairs-enabled bank office to capture biometric details like photos, fingerprints, and signatures. Finalizing your application at a Home Affairs office does not require an appointment, however banks require you to make an appointment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using eHomeAffairs for Your Smart ID Online Application

Step 1: Register a Profile

Start your Smart ID online application by registering a profile on the portal. This involves filling out your personal details, creating a secure password, and answering security questions.

Step 2: Verify Your Phone

After registration, an OTP (One-Time Pin) will be sent via SMS to confirm your phone number, essential for secure logins.

Step 3: Log into Your Profile

Use the OTP received to log into your profile and begin the Smart ID online application.

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the application form for your Smart ID or passport. All mandatory fields must be accurately filled in.

Step 5: Submit the Application

After filling out the application form, review all the details and click “Submit” to proceed with your Smart ID online application.

Step 6: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload any necessary supporting documents as part of your Smart ID online application. Note that you must present these documents in their original form later.

Step 7: Online Payment

Input your banking details and follow the steps to authorize the payment through your bank, essential for completing the Smart ID online application.

Step 8: Schedule a Biometric Capturing Appointment

Although biometric details can be captured without an appointment at Home Affairs offices, appointments are required at bank offices.

Step 9: Print Your Confirmation Letter

After completing the Smart ID online application, print the confirmation letter, which is necessary for your visit to the Home Affairs or bank office.

What Do I Need to Start My Smart ID Online Application?

Starting a Smart ID online application is a straightforward process designed to be accessible to all South African citizens. However, to ensure a seamless experience, it’s essential to prepare and gather all necessary items before initiating the application process. Here’s what you will need:

1. Device with Internet Connectivity

You will need a reliable device, such as a computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone, that can connect to the internet. Ensure that your device is secure and has the latest software updates to safeguard your personal information during the application process.

2. Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is crucial for accessing the eHomeAffairs portal and completing your Smart ID online application without interruptions. Consider using a secure Wi-Fi network rather than public Wi-Fi to ensure the security of your personal data.

3. South African ID Number

Your 13-digit South African ID number is essential for the Smart ID online application. This number is used to verify your identity and retrieve your records from the Department of Home Affairs database. Ensure you have your ID number ready before starting the application.

4. Valid Email Address

A valid and accessible email address is required to create your profile. This email will be used for all communications from the Department of Home Affairs regarding your Smart ID online application, including confirmation emails and notifications about the status of your application.

5. Cellphone Number Verification

After registering, you must verify your cellphone number to secure your eHomeAffairs account and ensure that you can receive important notifications via SMS. The verification process involves receiving a One-Time Pin (OTP) via SMS, which you will enter on the website to confirm your number.

6. Additional Information and Documents

Depending on your specific situation or the type of application, you may need to have other information or documents at hand, such as:

A digital photograph (if you are applying from a location where biometrics are not captured)
Payment information for the application fee
Additional identification documents, especially if your application involves changes in personal details or if you are applying on behalf of a minor.

Bank Branches Offering Smart IDs

Gauteng Home Affairs Bank Branches

Standard Bank Centurion: Cnr Lenchen and Old Johannesburg Rd, Centurion Lifestyle Centre, Centurion. Tel: 012 671 4042
Standard Bank Killarney Mall: Killarney Mall, Riviera Rd, Killarney, Johannesburg. Tel: 011 486 0002
Standard Bank Jubilee Mall: Shop no. 47 Jubilee Mall corner Jubilee and Harry Gwala Road, Temba, Hammanskraal. Tel: 011 351 7814
Standard Bank Simmonds Street: 5 Simmonds St, Selby, Johannesburg. Tel: 011 631 1624 / 011 639 4205
FNB Centurion Lifestyle Centre: Cnr Lenchen and Old Johannesburg Rd, Centurion Lifestyle Centre, Centurion. Tel: 066 460 0530 / 012 653 2661
FNB Glen Shopping Centre: Shop U2, The Glen Shopping Centre, Glenvista. Tel: 061 495 4441
FNB Lynwood: Shop L04 Upper-level Cnr Simon Vermooten & Lynnwood Rd, Equestria, Pretoria. Tel: 066 460 0130
FNB Merchant Place: 4 Merchant Place cnr Rivonia and Freedman Dr, Sandton. Tel: 066 290 3307
Nedbank Arcadia: Shop 25, Nedbank Plaza, Beatrix Street, Arcadia. Tel: 066 460 0122
Nedbank Constantia Kloof: 16 Constantia Boulevard, Constantia Kloof, Roodepoort. Tel: 011 639 4208
Nedbank Rivonia: 135 Rivonia Road, Sandown, Sandton. Tel: 066 290 3257
Absa Centurion Lifestyle Centre: Shop 36 cnr Lenchen and Old Johannesburg Road, Centurion Lifestyle Centre, Centurion. Tel: 066 460 0356
Absa Key West Krugersdorp: Shop 80 Key West Shopping Centre cnr Paardekraal Drive and Viljoen Street, Krugersdorp. Tel: 079 900 6457
Absa Sandton City: Cnr Rivonia Road and 5th Street, Sandton. Tel: 066 290 3314
Discovery Bank Head Office: 1 Discovery Place, cnr Rivonia Road and Katherine Street, Sandton. Tel: 0860 998 877
Investec Bank Sandown: 100 Grayston Dr, Sandown, Sandton. Tel: 011 286 7000

Limpopo Home Affairs Bank Branch

FNB Burgersfort: Shop 55, Twin City Complex, Dirk Winterbach Street, Burgersfort. Tel: 072 457 8619 / 013 216 0098

KwaZulu Natal Home Affairs Bank Branches

Standard Bank Kingsmead: 1 Kingsmead Way, Durban. Tel: 031 308 7900
FNB Cornubia: Shop U56, Cornubia Boulevard, Cnr N2 Highway & M41, Durban. Tel: 031 308 7900

Western Cape Home Affairs Bank Branches

Standard Bank Canal Walk: Shop 599, Upper Level, Canal Walk Shopping Center, Century Blvd, Century City. Tel: 021 529 8216
Standard Bank Mitchell’s Plain Promenade: Corner AZ Berman Road And Morgenster Road, Mitchell’s Plain. Tel: 0860 123 000
FNB Greenpoint: Shop 1 & 2, ERF 176300, Media Quarter, Somerset Road, Greenpoint. Tel: 087 345 6090
Nedbank St George’s Mall: Shop 3 The Box, St Georges Mall cnr Riebeeck Street. Tel: 0800 555 111

Eastern Cape Home Affairs Bank Branches

Standard Bank Newton Park: 1 Pickering St, Newton Park, Port Elizabeth. Tel: 041 404 8319
Absa Port Elizabeth: 682 Cnr. Bagshaw & Govan Mbeki Avenue, Port Elizabeth. Tel: 041 404 8319

Northern Cape Home Affairs Bank Branch

Standard Bank Kathu Mall: Shop 62, Village Walk Shopping Centre, Hendrik Van Eck Street, Kathu, Postmasburg. Tel: 053 723 9610

Mpumalanga Home Affairs Bank Branch

Nedbank Nelspruit: Shop 65, The Crossing Shopping Centre, corner Samora Machel and Madiba Drive, Nelspruit. Tel: 081 336 5941 (Note: This branch is temporarily closed.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who can use the eHomeAffairs platform to apply for a Smart ID?
A: The eHomeAffairs platform is available to all South African citizens by birth who need to apply for a Smart ID or passport. Minors can also have applications submitted on their behalf by their parents or legal guardians for passport applications.

Q: Can I apply for a passport using the portal?
A: Yes, in addition to the Smart ID online application, the eHomeAffairs portal also allows you to apply for a passport. The process is similar to applying for a Smart ID, including filling out an application form, uploading documents if necessary, and making a payment.

Q: Is it safe to make payments through the platform?
A: Yes, making payments through the eHomeAffairs platform is secure. The platform uses standard security protocols to ensure that your banking details are protected. However, remember that the payment itself must be authorized through your bank’s internet banking service.

Q: How do I know if my Smart ID online application was successful?
A: After submitting your Smart ID online application, you will receive a confirmation message on the eHomeAffairs portal and a confirmation email.

Q: What happens if I do not complete my biometric capturing?
A: Completing biometric capturing is a mandatory part of the Smart ID online application process. Failure to do so means your application will not be processed. You must visit a Home Affairs office or a Home Affairs-enabled bank office to capture your biometrics.

Q: Can I use eHomeAffairs to renew my Smart ID?
A: Yes, eHomeAffairs can be used to renew your Smart ID. The process is similar to applying for a new Smart ID, where you need to fill out the online application form, make a payment, and provide biometric data.

Q: How long does it take to receive a Smart ID after using the portal?
A: The processing time can vary, but typically, it takes about 10 to 14 working days from the date of application—provided that all biometric details have been captured and the application is complete.

Q: Where can I get help if I encounter issues with the portal?
A: If you encounter issues while using the eHomeAffairs portal, you can contact the Department of Home Affairs’ customer service center via phone or email. Detailed contact information is available on the eHomeAffairs website.

The eHomeAffairs platform is a testament to South Africa’s commitment to modernizing its governmental procedures, offering a streamlined, secure, and straightforward Smart ID online application process. By utilizing this guide, South African citizens can navigate eHomeAffairs effectively, making the most of the digital services at their disposal.

New deal for children with foreign parents born in South Africa

The Constitutional Court recently ruled that children born in South Africa to foreign parents qualify for South African citizenship in terms of Section 2 of the South African Citizenship Act. That is, if you were born in South Africa to foreign parents who have not been admitted as permanent residents, you qualify to apply for South African citizenship upon becoming a major if your birth was registered and if you have lived here all your life, irrespective of the date of your birth and you have not accepted the nationality of another country. The judgment also reduced the term for applying for citizenship by holders of permanent residence from 5 years to 10 years by declaring Regulation 3(2)(a) of the Citizenship Act Regulations unconstitutional.

This judgment settled a long-standing dispute between a Congolese couple, their minor child and the Department of Home Affairs. The Constitutional court judgment was an appeal from the Western Cape High Court Decision. The couple who were refugees renounced their Congolese citizenship in line with the advice they received from the Department of Home Affairs to qualify for South African citizenship. Unfortunately, their applications for South African citizenship were rejected on the basis that they did not comply with Regulation 3(2)(a) of the Citizenship Act Regulations.

Regulation 3(2)(a) sets a minimum period of 10 years ordinary residence prior to applying for citizenship whereas Section 5(1)(c) of the Act sets a minimum period of 5 years ordinary residence. The result was that the couple and their third child became Stateless. Being frustrated by their effort to sort out the issue with the Department of Home Affairs, the couple approached the High Court for a relief. The couple sought an order declaring Regulation 3(2)(a) invalid and unconstitutional. The Department of Home Affairs could not justify the difference in the minimum period of 5 years imposed in Section 5(1) of the Act and the 10 years imposed in Regulations 3(2)(a). Regarding section 5(1), the High Court accepted that the section does create a minimum period, but it does not allow for an extension of that period nor does it create a maximum period. The High Court in Cape Town thus concluded that the Regulation could not amend the legislation and the 10 year period in Regulation 3(2)(a) was a patent error.

The court further held that the Department’s argument that the child could apply for citizenship when he reached the age of 18 years was not in accordance with the right of the child to a nationality as set out in section 28(1)(a) of the Constitution. Furthermore, the child ought to be placed in a position where he too can qualify for South African citizenship. Consequently, the High Court declared the reference to “10 years” in Regulation 3(2)(a) to have been ultra vires (beyond the legal power or authority) of section 5(1) of the Act and irrational, vague and inconsistent with the Constitution and therefore invalid.

The High Court suspended the declaration of invalidity pending the confirmation of its order by the Constitutional Court. However, the High Court refused to grant the substitution order on the couple’s application for citizenship stating that it was not in as good a position as the administrator at Home Affairs to make that decision. The couple therefore approached the Constitutional Court to confirm the declaration of constitutional invalidity. In the alternative, they applied for leave to appeal the suspension order directly to the Constitutional Court.

The Constitutional Court Stated that the rights of a child are adversely affected as the High Court declined to consider the child’s application for citizenship and held that his application was dependent on the outcome of his parents’ permanent residence applications. The Court further stated that any further delay in finalizing the matter will prejudice the applicants who remain stateless. The Constitutional Court Held that the High Court erred when it suspended the declaration of invalidity of Regulation 3(2)(a). There was no basis for the suspension order as the Constitutional Court does not need to confirm a declaration of invalidity relating to regulations. The Constitutional Court set aside the High Court judgment with regard to the suspension of the constitutional invalidity.

The effect of the judgment is that a child born to foreign parents qualifies for South African citizenship when the child turns 18 in terms of Section 2 of the Citizenship Act irrespective of when the child was born provided the child does not have the citizenship or nationality of any other country and his or her birth is registered in the Republic in accordance with the Births and Deaths Registration Act, 1992 (Act 51 of 1992). It should be noted that being the holder of a foreign passport is proof that that you are a citizen of that country and may deprive you from the opportunity to apply for South African citizenship. Foreigners can now also apply for citizenship after just five years of permanent residence.

All 30 bank branches offering Smart ID cards and passport renewals

All 30 bank branches offering Smart ID cards and passport renewals Hanno Labuschagne14 May 2024 All 30 bank branches offering Smart ID cards and passport renewals Over half the bank branches that support Smart ID card issuing and passport renewals are in Gauteng. In addition, more than 83% of the branches are in the three most populous provinces in South Africa, while only about 56.3% of the country’s population lives in these provinces. Many people will have to travel far to use one of these branches instead of a regular, problem-ridden Home Affairs office to get a new ID or passport. Thirty bank branches support the eHomeAffairs system introduced by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in 2016. This facility enables people to apply for a Smart ID card or new passport to complete most of their application online and pay for it before making an appointment for biometric verification at one of their banks’ branches. MyBroadband has repeatedly tested the service and found it to be highly convenient with an excellent turnaround time. The system has been in a perpetual pilot phase, with rollouts happening extremely slowly. While several banks have expressed interest in expanding the service to more branches, the deadline for finalising a permanent agreement between the banks and DHA has repeatedly been delayed. Numerous MyBroadband readers have pointed out that their bank does not offer a branch near them with the service. However, most of the supported banks permit entry-level accountholders to access the service. These accounts can often be opened online with minimal effort and fee payments - a good option for those desperate to avoid a regular Home Affairs office or long-distance travel to reach a branch supported by their primary bank. All the country’s biggest banks, except Capitec and TymeBank, have DHA-enabled branches in Gauteng. Absa, FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank also have branches in the Western Cape. Absa is the only one in the Big Four that does not have any supported branches in KwaZulu-Natal. However, it does offer a branch in the Eastern Cape, alongside Standard Bank, while FNB and Nedbank do not. Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Northern Cape residents have just one branch each - all with different banks. Free State residents have no choice but to go to a regular Home Affairs office or travel to another province to use a DHA-enabled bank branch. That would take an immense effort unless they live close to the border because it requires two visits - one for biometrics and a second for collection.

Visa waivers propel South Africa's tourism sector with 2.4 million visitors

Visa waivers for travellers from Kenya and Ghana have catalysed a remarkable 15.4% increase in international tourist numbers to South Africa. File picture: Tracey Adams/ Independent Newspapers
South Africa's tourism sector is experiencing a renaissance fuelled by the recent removal of visa requirements for travellers from select African countries.
The latest data from Statistics South Africa showed a remarkable surge in international arrivals, signalling a promising trajectory for the industry.
From January to March 2024, South Africa welcomed 2.4 million international tourists, reflecting a notable 15.4% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Of significance is the substantial rise in arrivals from African nations, constituting 74.5% of all international arrivals.
Ghana stands out with an extraordinary 249.4% surge in tourist arrivals to South Africa from January to March 2024, attributed to the visa waiver scheme implemented in November 2023.
This initiative allows for visa-free travel between Ghana and South Africa for up to 90 days, fostering enhanced business and tourism opportunities.
Similarly, Kenyan travellers have benefited from visa-free access to South Africa since January 2023, resulting in a remarkable 99% increase in arrivals compared to 2022. The impact of visa-free travel, coupled with targeted marketing campaigns, has propelled Kenya into a significant source market for South Africa, with arrivals reaching 42,403 in 2023.
Beyond the African continent, international visitors from the Americas and Europe have also contributed to the tourism surge. Notable increases in arrivals were recorded from North America, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Russia, reflecting the diverse appeal of South Africa as a travel destination.
Asian markets have emerged as key drivers of growth, witnessing a substantial 25.4% increase in arrivals from January to March 2024 compared to the previous year. China notably recorded an impressive 82% increase in arrivals, underscoring the country's growing interest in South Africa's offerings. Despite a slight dip compared to 2023, India remains a significant market for South Africa's tourism sector.
The removal of visa barriers, combined with strategic marketing initiatives, has positioned South Africa as an attractive destination for global travellers. As the tourism industry continues to rebound and evolve, stakeholders remain optimistic about the sector's resilience and future prospects