Israel Eases ID Card Application Process Ahead of Elections
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Israel's Population and Immigration Authority and the Central Elections Committee are now allowing walk-in applications for new identity cards at all offices nationwide. This change, implemented before the October 27th elections, aims to help citizens obtain necessary identification without prior appointments. While other forms of ID like passports and driver's licenses are valid for voting, the new process simplifies obtaining an ID card for those who need one.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israelis can now apply for new identity cards without an appointment at Population Administration offices.
- The new walk-in policy aims to help citizens obtain ID cards before the upcoming elections.
- Lost or stolen ID cards require a fee of 145 shekels and a signed declaration.
- Valid passports and driver's licenses are also accepted for identification at polling stations.
- The change is part of a joint effort by the Population Authority and the Elections Committee.
The Population and Immigration Authority and the Central Elections Committee have announced a new procedure allowing Israelis to apply for a new identity card at any Population Administration office nationwide without a prior appointment. This initiative aims to streamline the process for citizens, particularly those who have lost their ID cards or need replacements. Previously, obtaining or renewing an identity card required booking an appointment, with waiting times varying significantly by location and demand. While biometric ID cards are not printed on-site, they are produced and mailed to the applicant. Online renewal is also available for eligible individuals, but not all applicants qualify.
Applicants renewing an existing ID should bring their current card. In cases of loss or theft, a valid Israeli passport or another photo ID like a military or police ID is recommended; a driver's license is not accepted for biometric ID processing. Individuals without a photo ID will undergo an additional identity verification process. A fee of 145 shekels applies for lost, stolen, or damaged ID cards, along with a signed declaration. Passport photos are not needed as the biometric scan is done at the office.
This change comes less than three weeks before the 26th Knesset elections on October 27th. The joint effort by the Population Authority and the Elections Committee seeks to ensure all eligible voters can cast their ballots, even if they lack a valid ID. While a valid Israeli passport or driver's license can also be used for identification at polling stations, eliminating the appointment requirement for ID cards may remove a significant hurdle for those needing new documents.
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