The department’s transition plan has a firm date.
On 31 March 2027, the machines used to produce green ID books will be permanently shut down and decommissioned.
Over 80,000 foreign nationals processed for deportation since June.
Before that happens, Home Affairs plans to expand access to Smart ID cards to groups that have previously faced limitations, including naturalised citizens, permanent residents and and South African citizens living abroad.
Schreiber said the goal is to ensure that every eligible person can access the more secure Smart ID.
What about the 14.7 million people still using Green ID books?
They will not be left with only days to make the change.
Home Affairs says approximately 14.7 million South African citizens and permanent residents still hold only a green ID book.
Once production ends in March 2027, these document holders will have a further 12 months to apply for a Smart ID card before the green ID book ceases to be recognised.
First-time applicants and people aged over 60 will remain exempt from the Smart ID application fee.