In a recent development, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in tandem with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Security (ONS), has declared an extension in the period to obtain ID Cards.
This announcement follows the issuance of a Public Notice on February 5th, 2024.
According to the latest update, the deadline for acquiring ID Cards, including National, ECOWAS, and Non-National variants, has been prolonged from March 31st, 2024, to June 28th, 2024.
This extension aims to grant the general public ample time to complete the necessary procedures.
This decision aligns with a Cabinet Directive, endorsed by Parliament in March 2022, mandating the linkage of Identification Cards with the National Identification Number (NIN). This linkage facilitates access to various essential services, such as financial transactions, vehicle registration, recruitment processes, and more.
Citizens are urged to seize this extended timeframe and obtain their Identification Cards promptly. These cards are essential for accessing an array of services and ensuring consistency in personal information verification. While the National and Non-National ID Cards are mandatory, possessing an ECOWAS ID Card remains optional.
Individuals can visit any NCRA Office or designated centers nationwide to obtain their ID Cards within the stipulated hours of 08:30 am to 17:30 pm, from Monday to Friday, before the June 28th deadline.
Moreover, it’s emphasized that the NCRA and the Security Sector will collaborate to enforce compliance with this directive and its parliamentary ratification starting July 1st, 2024. This enforcement aims to ensure reliable identification and consistency in personal information for all residents, regardless of citizenship status.
Lastly, citizens are reminded that the Identification Card, bearing the unique National Identification Number (NIN), serves as the primary legal source of personal identification. It underscores the significance of completing the ID Card acquisition process within the extended timeline provided.
