Complete Guide to Obtaining a Sri Lankan National Identity Card (NIC) – 2026

In 2026, the National Identity Card (NIC) remains the most vital document for banking, voting, employment, and obtaining a passport in Sri Lanka. Here is the updated process for first-time applicants and replacements.

1. Eligibility & Age Requirements

  • Starting Age: You must apply at 15 years (specifically when you reach 14 years and 6 months).

  • Late Penalty: Delaying your application beyond the prescribed time will result in a Rs. 2,500 fine.

2. The New ICAO Photo Rule (Crucial Change) Paper-printed photos are no longer accepted.

  • Authorized Studios: Photos must be taken at government-registered studios (e.g., VM Studio- Sammanthurai).

  • Digital Process: The studio will upload your photo directly to the DRP system and give you an ICAO Photo Acknowledgement Slip.

  • Fee: Maximum Rs. 400.

  • Validity: The digital photo is valid for 6 months.

3. Application Methods & Fees

Normal Service

One-Day Service (Express)

  • First-time NIC (Age 15): Rs. 200

  • Locations: Available at Suhurupaya (Battaramulla) and the Galle Regional Office.

  • Corrections/Damage: Rs. 500

  • Processing Time: 3–5 hours (Recommended to arrive by 7:30 AM).

  • Lost NIC: Rs. 1,000

 

  • Additional Fee: Rs. 2,000 (plus standard government fees).

4. Mandatory Documents

  • Original Birth Certificate (Details must match exactly).

  • ICAO Photo Acknowledgement Slip.

  • Certification from Grama Niladhari (GN) & Divisional Secretariat.

  • Old NIC (For renewals or revisions).

  • Police Report (Mandatory if the NIC is lost – must be filed within 6 months).

FAQs

Can I still use my old laminated (paper) NIC?

Yes, the old laminated NICs are still valid for most services. However, the government is gradually transitioning to Smart NICs. When you apply for a renewal or correction, you will receive the new Smart (Polycarbonate) card.

What should I do if my Birth Certificate has errors?

Your NIC details must match your Birth Certificate exactly. If there is an error in your Birth Certificate, you must correct it at the Divisional Secretariat before applying for the NIC.

Can I take the NIC photo on my mobile phone?

No. Photos must be taken at an Authorized Studio (e.g., VM Studio – Sammanthurai) to ensure they meet ICAO standards and are digitally uploaded to the Department’s system.

Is the One-Day Service available in every district?

Currently, the One-Day service is primarily available at the Head Office in Battaramulla (Suhurupaya) and the Regional Office in Galle. For other districts, you must use the Normal Service via your Grama Niladhari.

I lost my NIC. Can I apply without a Police Report?

No. For a lost NIC, a Police Report is mandatory. You must file the complaint at the nearest police station and attach the copy of the report to your application.

What is the validity period of the ICAO Photo Acknowledgement Slip?

The digital photo slip provided by the studio is valid for 6 months from the date it was taken. You must submit your application within this period.