Guides · Ethiopia

National ID card renewal in Ethiopia

Written from published rules on 28 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with INVEA (Information Network Security Administration - የኢንፎርሜሽን መረብ ደህንነት አስተዳደር). Rules here vary, so check carefully.

Renewing an Ethiopian National ID involves verifying personal data through local administrative offices. Applicants must present existing identification and provide updated biometric information to the relevant municipal or district authorities.

Your timing

It is generally recommended to initiate the renewal process at least 30 to 60 days before the card's expiration. Processing times can fluctuate based on local office capacity and the volume of applications being handled at the specific administrative level.

Start 45 days ahead

This accounts for potential wait times for document verification and the technical issuance of new biometric ID cards.

The process

  1. 1Visit the local Woreda or Kebele administration office where the previous ID was issued.
  2. 2Submit the required application paperwork and provide the existing identification document for verification.
  3. 3Undergo the biometric capture process, which typically includes fingerprinting and digital photography.
  4. 4Pay the applicable service fee at the designated payment office or bank if directed.
  5. 5Receive a notification regarding the collection of the new National ID card once processing is complete.

What to bring

  • Original expiring or expired National ID card
  • Recent passport-sized photographs
  • Proof of residence or support documents from local neighborhood administration
  • Payment receipt for service fees

Who handles it

INVEA (Information Network Security Administration - የኢንፎርሜሽን መረብ ደህንነት አስተዳደር)

https://invea.gov.et/

Service fees for ID renewal are determined by regional or municipal administrations; applicants should confirm the current amount at their local Kebele office.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Incomplete documentation from local neighborhood offices can delay the verification process.
  • Operating hours at local administrative offices may vary significantly by region.
  • Changes in official residence must be reported and updated prior to or during the renewal process to ensure accurate information.

Sources

This guide is based on one official source.

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