Renewing your national identity card in Timor-Leste is a legal obligation and a vital step to maintain your official status as a Timorese citizen. The process is straightforward but must be done within 3 months before the card’s expiry date. This guide explains everything you need to know on how to renew your identity card in Timor-Leste.
Step 1: Check When Your ID Card Expires
Make sure to begin the renewal process at least three months before your current ID card expires. If your ID was issued after age 60, it is valid for life, and no renewal is required unless changes are needed.
Step 2: Submit the Renewal Application
Go to the Civil and Criminal Identification Service located in your area of residence. Submit a completed application form. You do not need to present your birth certificate unless:
- You have changed your name,
- You have updated your date of birth, or
- You acquired citizenship after birth (in which case, include official references to the naturalization process).
Step 3: If Abroad, Use Embassy Services
If you’re outside Timor-Leste, contact your nearest Timor-Leste Embassy. The embassy’s consular section will assist with the renewal process remotely.
Required Documents
- Current identity card
- Valid photo ID (passport or any official document, if applicable)
- Citizenship certificate (if you are naturalized)
- Updated personal documents (if changes have occurred)
Office Contact Information
📍 National Directorate of Registries and Notarial Services
Ministério da Justiça
Avenida Jacinto Cândido, Dili – Timor-Leste
📞 Tel: (+670) 7723-0131 (General Info)
Eligibility
- Must be a citizen of Timor-Leste
- Hold a previously issued national identity card
- Renewal is mandatory for all citizens under 60 years old
Fees
Fees may vary by case. Generally:
- Standard renewal fee applies for all cards renewed before expiry
- Late renewal may attract additional administrative charges
- No renewal fee for cards issued or renewed after age 60 (valid for life)
Validity Period
- 5 years: Identity cards issued to citizens under 60 years old
- Lifetime: Cards issued after 60 years old
Required Personal Information
Applicants must provide:
- Full name
- Date and place of birth
- Gender
- Marital status
- Citizenship status
- Parentage information
Processing Time
- Typically takes 5–10 working days, depending on the location and completeness of your documents
- Embassy processing (if abroad) may take longer due to international shipping of physical documents
Importance of the Identity Card
The National Identity Card serves as:
✅ Official proof of Timorese citizenship
✅ Recognition of your civil identity
✅ A document to access government services, open bank accounts, register for elections, and more
Helpful Tips
- Renew early to avoid service disruption
- Keep copies of your old ID card until the new one is issued
- Ensure all changes in personal details are supported by certified documents
External Resources
📘 Decree-Law No. 2/2004 – Civil Identification
🌐 National Directorate of Registries and Notarial Services
