Understanding the National Registration Identity Card (NIRC)

National Registration Identity Card (NIRC)The National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) is a unique identification document issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to every Singaporean citizen and permanent resident. Each NRIC has a distinctive alphanumeric serial number that’s specific to the holder of the card.

It’s important to know that the NRIC falls under the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), making it generally imprudent to request someone’s NRIC unless there are certain exemptions under the PDPA. The NRIC should only be used, not retained, to verify a person’s identity.

If you’re a local resident setting up a company in Singapore, you can use your NRIC for the incorporation process. However, foreigners need to provide their passport details instead.

 

When Should You Get a National Registration Identity Card (NRIC)?

Both Singaporean citizens and permanent residents must apply for an NRIC once they reach 15 years old, ideally before their 16th birthday. Further updates are required when the holder turns 30, and again at 55 years old, unless they’ve had a replacement identity card in the last decade.

 

What Documents are Needed?

You’ll need to provide certain original documents, along with their official English translations if the originals are in a different language. These documents must be submitted as digital images as part of your online application through the ICA’s e-Service, once you receive a notification from them.

For Singapore Citizens, you should submit:

  • Baptism or religious certificate, if you have a religious name.
  • Change of name certificate using a deed poll, if applicable.
  • Marriage certificate, if you wish to include your married name.
  • A recent, colour, passport-sized photograph taken within the last three months.

For Singapore Permanent Residents, you need:

  • The pages of your current passport with your personal details.
  • Marriage certificate, if you wish to include your married name.
  • A recent, colour, passport-sized photograph taken within the last three months.

First-time NRIC applicants must also register their biometrics. If you’re in a government or government-aided school, this enrollment is typically done on a specific day organized by the school. Alternatively, you’ll need to book an appointment to visit the ICA Building in person for your biometrics registration after completing the online application.