Complete guide to replacing a lost or stolen ID in South Africa in 2026. Learn about reporting requirements, replacement process, required documents, fees, and how to prevent ID loss.
Losing your ID or having it stolen can be stressful and inconvenient. Understanding the replacement process, required steps, and documentation helps you get a new ID quickly and efficiently. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about replacing a lost or stolen ID in South Africa.
First Priority:
Why Report:
Police Report:
Notify Home Affairs:
How to Report:
At Police Station:
Information Needed:
Essential Documents:
Additional Documents (if applicable):
Replacement Fees:
Payment:
At Home Affairs Office:
Application Process:
Important:
Processing Times:
Security Checks:
When Ready:
Police Report Requirements:
If Report is Lost:
Form Requirements:
Special Sections:
Additional Documentation:
Standard Fees:
Additional Costs:
Payment Options:
If Lost While Traveling:
Embassy Assistance:
If Stolen:
Security Considerations:
If ID is Found:
Why:
Safety Measures:
Best Practices:
While Traveling:
Emergency Preparation:
If you lose your ID, report it to the police immediately to get a case number and police report. Then report the loss to Home Affairs and apply for a replacement. You'll need the police report, two ID photos, completed application form, and proof of payment for the R140 fee.
Replacing a lost ID costs R140 for a Smart ID card (the same as a new application). There is no discount for replacement, and fees are non-refundable even if your ID is found later.
Replacing a lost ID typically takes 14-21 working days for a Smart ID card, but may take longer due to additional security checks and verification processes. The processing time may be extended to ensure the lost ID isn't used fraudulently.
Yes, a police report with a case number is required to replace a lost or stolen ID. You must report the loss/theft to the police first, obtain the police report, and provide it with your replacement application at Home Affairs.
If you lose your ID, you may have difficulty accessing services that require ID verification. Some services may accept alternative identification or a police report temporarily, but you should replace your ID as soon as possible. Contact service providers about alternatives.
If you find your ID after reporting it lost, you still need to complete the replacement process. The old ID is invalid once reported as lost and cannot be used, even if found. You must collect your new replacement ID.
When replacing a lost ID, you apply for a new ID (not a renewal) since you don't have the previous ID to submit. The process is the same as a first-time application, but you must provide the police report and explain the circumstances.
You need a police report with case number, two recent ID photos, completed application form (DHA-9 for Smart ID), proof of payment for R140, and any additional documents Home Affairs may require (such as birth certificate if first-time replacement).
There is no express processing option for Smart ID cards. Processing takes 14-21 working days for all applicants. If you have urgent needs, contact Home Affairs to discuss your situation, though faster processing is not guaranteed.
If your ID was stolen, follow the same process as for a lost ID: report to police immediately, get a police case number and report, report to Home Affairs, and apply for replacement. The process and requirements are the same whether lost or stolen.
Replacing a lost or stolen ID requires reporting to the police first to get a case number and police report, then applying for a replacement at Home Affairs with the police report, two ID photos, completed application form, and proof of payment for the R140 fee. The replacement takes 14-21 working days, though security checks may extend processing. Protect your ID by keeping it secure, making copies, and following safety precautions while traveling. Report loss immediately to prevent identity theft and fraudulent use.
For more information about Smart ID applications, requirements, or Home Affairs services, explore our other comprehensive Home Affairs guides.
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Specializing in South African Home Affairs services, passports, IDs, and visa applications with extensive knowledge of ID replacement processes and requirements.