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Guides · Mozambique

National ID card renewal in Mozambique

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Direção Nacional de Identificação Civil (DNIC) / Balcões Únicos de Atendimento (BUC) (National Directorate of Civil Identification / One-Stop Service Desks).

Renewing a Mozambican National ID card, known as a 'Bilhete de Identidade' (BI), generally involves submitting an application and required documents to the relevant civil identification services, often at a BUC or DIC office. A new photo and fingerprints are typically taken during the process.

Your timing

It is advisable for individuals to begin the renewal process several months before their current BI expires. This allows ample time to gather necessary documents, secure an appointment if required, and account for potential processing delays. Some services may offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

Start 60 days ahead

This lead time accounts for potential waiting times for appointments at service desks (BUC/DIC) and the time required for processing the new card. Official processing times can vary.

The process

  1. 1Gather all required documents, ensuring they are valid and in good condition.
  2. 2Locate the nearest Balcão Único de Atendimento (BUC) or Direcção de Identificação Civil (DIC) office.
  3. 3Visit the chosen service point to submit the application. This often involves an in-person attendance.
  4. 4Provide fingerprints and have a digital photograph taken at the service desk.
  5. 5Pay the applicable fee for the renewal of the BI.
  6. 6Receive a collection slip or notification regarding the new BI's availability.
  7. 7Collect the new National ID card from the designated office upon notification.

What to bring

  • Expired or expiring National ID card (Bilhete de Identidade)
  • Proof of payment of the renewal fee (if paid separately)
  • In some cases, proof of residence may be requested.
  • If the BI is lost or damaged, a police report or declaration of loss/damage might be required.

Who handles it

Direção Nacional de Identificação Civil (DNIC) / Balcões Únicos de Atendimento (BUC) (National Directorate of Civil Identification / One-Stop Service Desks)

https://portaldocidadao.gov.mz/servicos-online/identificacao-civil/

The cost for renewing a National ID card is subject to change. Information on the current fee can typically be found on the Portal do Cidadão or confirmed at a BUC/DIC service desk.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure all documents are current and match the information on record; discrepancies can cause delays.
  • Processing times can vary, especially during peak periods; plan accordingly.
  • Lost or severely damaged BIs may require additional steps, such as a police report, and could incur different fees.
  • The requirements and procedures for citizens residing abroad may differ and should be confirmed with the nearest Mozambican consulate or embassy.

Sources

Other documents in Mozambique

National ID card renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

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