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National Identity Card (NIC)

Guide5 stepsLast verified September 4, 2026
NICNational Identity CardDepartment for Registration of PersonsDRPe-NIC

What you'll need

  • •Birth Certificate
  • •Two passport-size photographs (as per DRP specification)
  • •Grama Niladhari certification (for first-time applicants)
  • •Previous NIC (for renewals/replacements/amendments)
  1. 1

    Determine your application type

    Decide whether you're applying for a NIC for the first time, replacing a lost/damaged card, or amending details (such as a name or address change) on an existing NIC.

    Department for Registration of Persons
  2. 2

    Gather required documents

    Prepare your birth certificate, passport-size photographs to DRP specifications, and (for first-time applicants) a Grama Niladhari certification confirming your identity and address.

    Department for Registration of Persons
  3. 3

    Submit your application

    Submit your application at your Divisional Secretariat, or start the process online through the DRP's e-NIC service. You will need to visit in person at least once to provide biometric data (photograph, fingerprints, signature).

    e-NIC Service
  4. 4

    Use the One Day Service if urgent

    If you need your NIC urgently, apply through the One Day Service available at the DRP Head Office or the Galle Provincial Office, subject to eligibility and required documents.

    One Day Service
  5. 5

    Get help if needed

    Contact the Department for Registration of Persons or visit a One Day Service branch for guidance on your application status or requirements.

    One Day Service Branches

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