Is your green ID book Safe? New Digital ID rules revealed
PRETORIA — President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the establishment of a new Intelligent Population Register as part of a sweeping overhaul of South Africa’s migration and identity management systems. The new system will capture biometric data for every individual in the country, serving as the primary foundation for a national Digital ID framework aimed at curbing identity fraud and undocumented migration.
Speaking during a national address on Sunday evening, the President confirmed that the government intends to phase out the traditional green barcoded identity book. According to the Presidency, the legacy document has been frequently exploited by criminal syndicates and undocumented immigrants to facilitate identity theft. The Department of Home Affairs is expected to announce a specific deadline after which the green ID books will no longer be legally recognised as valid identification.
The reforms extend to the transport sector, where the government intends to end the abuse of Traffic Registration Numbers (TRNs). These numbers, originally intended for foreign nationals to register or purchase vehicles, have reportedly been used as a substitute form of identification. President Ramaphosa stated that this practice has created significant weaknesses in the country’s security framework. The Department of Transport has been tasked with issuing new regulations within three months to align vehicle registration with national identification laws.
These measures are part of a broader Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management officially adopted by the Cabinet last week. The strategy includes more stringent enforcement of labour laws, enhanced border security, and dedicated anti-corruption initiatives within the immigration system. The President noted that these steps are a direct response to public concerns regarding the impact of illegal immigration on the economy, public services, and crime rates.
While the government is tightening controls, President Ramaphosa emphasised that the response remains guided by the Constitution and international obligations. He cautioned against intolerance, noting that the majority of foreign nationals are law-abiding, and reminded the public that only authorised state officials are permitted to enforce immigration laws. The transition to a biometric-based system is viewed as a critical step in ensuring all residents and businesses operate within the legal framework of the Republic.
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