MEDIA STATEMENT
SASSA Announces Compulsory Biometric Enrolment and Identity Verification Process for Clients Using Alternative Identification
Date: 24 April 2025
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is implementing a new mandatory biometric enrolment and identity verification process for clients who use forms of identification other than the standard 13-digit South African ID number. This initiative is part of SASSA’s ongoing efforts to improve security, prevent fraud, and ensure accurate identification of clients.
Implementation Date: 05 May 2025
From 05 May 2025, all new clients using alternative identification and existing clients undergoing a review or updating their personal information will be required to complete biometric enrolment. This includes the collection of biometric data (such as fingerprints and facial recognition) to verify identity accurately and securely.
“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.
To ensure readiness and smooth implementation, SASSA’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) team has collaborated with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) to train selected ‘super-users’. These super-users have been equipped to train SASSA regional staff under a ‘Train-the-Trainer’ model. This guarantees that each SASSA office across the country will have trained personnel available to conduct biometric enrolments.
SASSA will also deploy additional officials to ensure that service delivery remains smooth and uninterrupted during the transition period.
This initiative is part of SASSA’s broader efforts to safeguard social grants and uphold the principle of paying the right grant to the right person at the right time and place – NJALO!
For any queries regarding social grants, beneficiaries are encouraged to contact the toll-free SASSA hotline on 0800 60 10 11 or email GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za.
Issued by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)
Media Contact:
Paseka Letsatsi
SASSA Spokesperson
Tel: 082 883 9969
