SASSA Announces Compulsory Biometric Enrolment and Identity Verification Process for Clients using Alternative Identification

Paseka Letsatsi
SASSA Spokesperson

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is introducing a mandatory biometric enrolment and identity verification process for clients who use alternative forms of identification other than the standard 13-digit South African Identity number.

This initiative aims to enhance the security and accuracy of client identification within the agency’s systems.

Beginning on 05 May 2025, all new clients who use alternative forms of identification other than the standard 13-digit South African ID number, as well as existing clients undergoing reviews or changes to their personal information, will be required to undergo compulsory biometric enrolment.

This measure is part of SASSA’s ongoing efforts to improve the integrity and efficiency of its systems and how it services clients.

“This initiative, which aligns with Regulation 13(1) of the Social Assistance Act, is a proactive measure aimed at enhancing security, improving the integrity of our systems, and preventing potentially fraudulent activities related to identity misrepresentation.”, said Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA Spokesperson.

Furthermore, to ensure readiness across all SASSA regions, SASSA’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) team has collaborated with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) to provide training to identified ‘super-users.

These super-users are now well-equipped to train regional staff on biometric enrolment as part of the ‘Train-the-Trainer process.

This will ensure that every SASSA office will have trained officials when the biometric enrolment process commences.

In addition, the Agency will also ensure that there is a sufficient number of SASSA officials in offices to ensure a seamless transition and enrolment process.

SASSA is pulling all the stops in tightening its systems and measures that are meant to safeguard socials grants, thus ensuring that we pay the right social grant to the right person at the right time and place, NJALO!