By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone is making significant progress in its initiative to provide citizens and residents with advanced National ID Cards featuring a National Identification Number (NIN). This unique, lifelong number links individuals’ biometric data and personal details within the National Identity Database, strengthening security and facilitating seamless access to essential services.
The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has outlined the costs and procedures for acquiring various categories of securitized, multi-purpose biometric identity cards. The NIN cards are available for citizens aged 12 and above at NCRA offices and designated centers nationwide. Plans for issuing ID cards to children under 12 will be announced soon.
Categories and Fees of Biometric ID Cards:
- National Identity Card (Sierra Leoneans, aged 12+) – Le 140.00 (NLe)
- ECOWAS ID Card (Optional for Sierra Leoneans) – Le 240.00 (NLe)
- ECOWAS ID Card (Citizens of ECOWAS Member States) – Le 400.00 (NLe)
- Non-National ID Card (Mandatory for foreign residents) – Le 2,000.00 (NLe)
- Application Fees – Le 5.00 (NLe)
- ID Verification – Variable by field
These fees are stipulated in line with the National Civil Registration Act of 2016, reflecting the NCRA’s commitment to secure, standardized identification.
Applicants are required to visit their nearest NCRA office to apply for their National ID Card. The card includes a secure chip embedded with biometric data, which facilitates identity verification, enhances financial inclusion, and provides streamlined access to multiple services. It is a critical tool for both citizens and non-citizens, promoting security and efficiency in public and private transactions.
The National ID Card’s integration with the financial sector enables remote “Know Your Customer” (KYC) checks, significantly reducing the cost and time of customer verification. This electronic KYC feature promotes financial inclusion, allowing providers to securely authenticate customers.
In education, the NIN is now required for students in public examination classes, underscoring the card’s value in various life aspects across Sierra Leone.
For non-citizens, the Non-National ID Card allows secure access to resident and work permits. This development is an important part of Sierra Leone’s strategy to enhance personal security, protect rights, and promote efficient service access.
The NIN, an 11-digit unique identifier, links individuals’ records within the National Identity Database. This system enables efficient service access, facilitates secure transactions, and ensures the protection of individual rights. The Biometric ID Card is now mandatory for identification at checkpoints nationwide.
The NCRA established application centers to ensure accessibility across the country:
- NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
- NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
- NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
- NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (by the Roundabout)
- NCRA Office: Waterloo, Freetown Highway (Opposite Police Station)
- Regional Headquarters: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko
Corporate services tailored for organizations are also available. For inquiries, the NCRA can be reached at +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-78-221-812 or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.
Sierra Leoneans are strongly encouraged to obtain their Biometric ID Cards, recognizing the cards’ role in enhancing national security and contributing to development. The NCRA’s initiative aligns with the Government’s dedication to fostering a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for all citizens and residents.
