Waiting in long lines at Home Affairs can be a frustrating experience. But what if I told you there's a much easier way to get your Smart ID or passport? Select FNB branches have partnered with the Department of Home Affairs to make the application process quicker and more convenient. I remember when I had to renew my passport; the thought of spending a whole day at Home Affairs was dreadful. Then a friend told me about the eChannel service at FNB, and it was a game-changer.

So, to answer your question directly: yes, you can apply for your Smart ID and passport at certain FNB branches. This service is part of the collaboration between the Department of Home Affairs and major banks in South Africa to streamline the application process.

FNB Branches for Smart IDs and Passports

Here is a list of FNB branches where you can book an appointment to apply for your Smart ID and passport:

• FNB Merchant Place: 4 Merchant Place, Cnr Rivonia & Feedman Dr, Sandton
• FNB Greenpoint: Shop 1 & 2, ERF 176300, Media Quarter, Somerset
• FNB Lynwood: Shop L04 Upper-level Cnr Simon Vermooten & Lynnwood Rd, Equestria, Pretoria

It’s important to note that this list can change, so it's always a good idea to double-check on the eChannel portal before making your booking. I once made the mistake of just showing up at a branch, only to find out I had to book online first. It was a bit of a wasted trip, but a lesson learned!

The process is quite simple. You first need to apply and pay on the Home Affairs eChannel portal. Once you've done that, you can book an appointment at one of the participating FNB branches to have your photo and fingerprints taken. For more information on FNB's operating hours, you can check out this article on whether FNB is open on Sundays.

The convenience of this service cannot be overstated. Instead of taking a day off work to stand in a queue, you can now schedule a quick appointment at your bank. While you're saving time, why not make the most of it? With the Points Castle app, you can earn points by completing surveys and playing games, which you can then redeem for vouchers. It's a great way to make your spare moments more rewarding.