If you’re a citizen of Timor-Leste, obtaining a national identity card is a legal requirement. The identity card confirms your citizenship and is used for various official and personal purposes. Whether you are in Dili or abroad, this guide explains how to get an identity card in Timor-Leste, step by step.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Identity cards are issued to:
- Timorese nationals only
- All citizens must apply and carry a valid ID card
- If the applicant is under 12 years old or legally/physically disabled, the form must be signed by a parent or legal representative
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following:
- Two identical passport-sized color photos
- Taken within the last year
- Plain background
- Clear and good condition
- Birth certificate
- Valid for 12 months (unless for children under 12, where no expiry applies)
🔍 If there are doubts about identity, the Civil Registry may request:
- A statement from the Chief of Hamlet or Chief of Suco
- Additional supporting documentation
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
The form can be obtained from:
- The Civil and Criminal Identification Service in your area
- Timor-Leste Embassies abroad
Ensure the form includes:
- Applicant’s full name
- Place and date of birth
- Gender
- Parentage
- Citizenship
- Marital status
📝 Parents or guardians must sign for minors under 12.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Submit the completed form and documents to:
- The Civil and Criminal Identification Service in your residential district
- If you are abroad, visit the nearest Timor-Leste Embassy or Consulate, where consular staff will help you process the request
📌 Embassy info: Timor-Leste Embassies
Office Location & Contact (Main Registry)
National Directorate of Registries and Notarial Services
📍 Avenida Jacinto Cândido, Dili – Timor-Leste
📞 Landline: (+670) 7723-0131
🔗 Official Website
Fees
Fees vary slightly by region. Contact your local registry office for current rates.
Validity of the Identity Card
- Valid for 5 years if issued before age 60
- Valid for life if issued or renewed after the age of 60
Processing Time
Typically, it takes several working days to process and issue the identity card, depending on document verification and application volume.
Why You Need an Identity Card
A national ID card:
- Proves Timorese citizenship
- Serves as official identification for banking, employment, voting, and government services
- Is required for passport applications, legal contracts, and public services
Additional Tips
✔ Ensure the photographs match format and age criteria
✔ Keep a certified copy of your birth certificate for future use
✔ Renew your ID card before expiry to avoid legal complications
