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National Identification

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Building a Safer, Smarter and more reliable Jamaica

Sample National Identification Card

Our National Identification System (NIDS) is the primary source of identity assurance for Jamaicans. With this digital ID, Jamaican citizens and residents can now access online and inline public and private digital services.

Benefits Of The National Identification Card (NIC)

  • Free ID Card

    Every citizen and resident is entitled to a free National ID card, reducing the cost of identity verification.

  • Protects & Secures

    Prevents identity theft and reduces the risk of fraud involving personal information.

  • Transparency

    Gives individuals more control and visibility over how their identity information is used.

  • One ID

    Eliminates the need for multiple identity documents when doing business or accessing services.

  • Simplified Processes

    Reduces reliance on Notaries Public or Justices of the Peace for identity verification.

  • Easier Access to Pensions

    Removes the need for pensioners to submit life certificates.

  • Digital Signature

    Provides each person with a secure digital signature for electronic document signing.

  • Access to Financial Services

    Enables opening bank accounts and performing online financial transactions.

  • E-Commerce Ready

    Allows individuals to conduct secure transactions online.

  • E-Government Services

    Makes it easier for citizens to access and use government services, such as collecting benefits.

  • Social Benefits

    Supports fairer and more equitable distribution of benefits by verifying eligibility.

  • Diaspora Access

    Jamaicans living abroad can also obtain a National ID card.

  • Consent-Based Verification

    Your permission will be required for any entity to verify your identity, and you will be notified each time it occurs.

  • Protected by Law

    NIDS operates under the Data Protection Act, ensuring strong safeguards for personal information.

What Do I Need To Apply For A National ID?

Enrolling for a National Identification Card is Easy as 1, 2, 3

  1. Register Online – Applicants book an appointment date through the online portal.
  2. Visit an Enrolment Centre – Attend with the required supporting documents to complete the enrolment process.
  3. Verification & Issuance – Your information is collected, verified, and a National Identification Card (NIC) is issued.
  • Full name (including any names used prior to a change of name by deed poll or marriage);
  • Date of birth;
  • Country of birth;
  • Place of birth;
  • Names of mother and father;
  • Whether the individual is male or female, as recorded on the individual’s birth certificate;
  • Birth Certificate or Birth Entry Number (for persons born in Jamaica);
  • Facial image (Live Capture);
  • Fingerprints (Live Capture);
  • Manual signature for persons eighteen years of age or older;
  • Certification of citizenship (i.e. Jamaicans via naturalisation);
  • Passport number and approval by PICA regarding residency status;
  • Driver’s Licence Number;
  • Tax Registration Number (if applicable);
  • National Insurance Number (if applicable);
  • Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH) number;
  • Electoral ID Number;
  • Deed Poll (proof of name change);
  • Marital status;
  • Marriage Certificate;
  • Name of spouse (if applicable);

    Principal place of residence, and where applicable, any other places of residence;
  • Period of residence in Jamaica (in the case of an individual who is not a citizen of Jamaica);
  • Occupation.
Apply for National Identification Card
Who Can Verify My NIC

Any entity that meets the IT and security infrastructure criteria of the Data Protection Act can act as a Third Party for the verification of identity. These entities include but are not limited to:

Government Ministry, Department, Agency (MDAs)

Financial Deposit taking institutions

Verification Process For Third Party Entities

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Why NIRA Matters

The National Identification and Registration Authority is not just about identification – it is about empowerment, trust, and opportunity for every Jamaican.

Learn More