ICA studying feasibility of another IC re-registration exercise

We thank Ms Ada Chan Siew Foen for her feedback ("Start nationwide exercise to replace old ICs"; Forum Online, Sept 2).

Currently, Singapore citizens and permanent residents are required to register for an NRIC at the age of 15, and re-register at the age of 30. During re-registration, applicants will provide an updated photograph and other changes in details (for example, residential address).

NRIC holders can apply for a replacement NRIC at any time, if they wish to update their particulars or feel their photo no longer reflects their appearance accurately.

The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is currently studying the viability of introducing another NRIC re-registration after the age of 30, so that the information captured will be up to date. This is especially relevant as our citizens are enjoying longer life expectancies.

The ICA has also been endeavouring to enhance its products to ensure they are durable and in-built with the latest security features. The current NRIC is made of polycarbonate material and has been subjected to stringent tests for durability. Laser engraving technology has also been employed for the production of the NRIC since 1991. Once the data is engraved by laser into the polycarbonate material, it cannot be edited and can still be read over time.

We assure the public that we regularly review and enhance our products, where practical.

Vincent Ng

Head, Public & Internal Communications

Corporate Communications Division Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

This article was first published on September 12, 2014.
Get a copy of The Straits Times or go to straitstimes.com for more stories.