By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Sierra Leonean Government has announced a critical deadline for citizens and non-citizens to obtain their National Identification Cards, underscoring the pivotal role these cards play in establishing legal identity within the country. With a cutoff date of March 31, 2024, looming, individuals are urged to take prompt action to acquire these essential documents.
Issued by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), the National ID Card serves as a fundamental pillar of legal identity, incorporating biometric data to provide multifaceted benefits beyond basic identification. The Government has mandated that all residents, including citizens, to possess these cards starting April 1, 2024, to ensure reliable identification and consistency in personal information.
The National Identification Numbers (NINs), embedded in the ID Cards, will become a prerequisite for various transactions and services, including work and resident permit applications, access to Government provisions, obtaining a driver’s license, and even to be eligible to sit to public examination. Additionally, the NIN will be linked to land ownership and building permits, further emphasizing its importance in accessing essential services and rights.
To facilitate the acquisition process, the NCRA has established numerous centers across Sierra Leone where individuals aged 12 and above can apply for their National ID Cards. Non-citizens are also required to obtain Non-National ID Cards for resident and work permits. These centers offer Securitized Biometric Identity Cards, ensuring a streamlined and efficient application process.
It must be noted that the introduction of ECOWAS compliant, internationally benchmarked Identity Cards has instilled a sense of pride among cardholders while unlocking seamless opportunities for accessing social services and Government provisions. With the deadline is fast approaching, the Government urges both citizens and non-citizens to act promptly to avoid last-minute rushes.
Designated centers to acquire the Biometric ID Cards include:
- 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 Round- About).
- NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown High Way (Opposite the Police Station).
- NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.
For detailed information on these services, interested parties can contact us via the following phone numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or through email at idverification@ncra.gov.
With the deadline of March 31, 2024, approaching for obtaining the ID Cards, both citizens and non-citizens are strongly encouraged to act promptly.
