ID Photo Costs Soar, But Digital IDs on the Horizon

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lankan government has introduced two key measures: a ceiling on photographer fees for ID photo copies and the initial rollout of digital ID cards.

A special gazette notice signed by the Minister of Public Security caps the maximum fee a registered photographer can charge for taking digital photos for an ID card at Rs.400. 

This marks a significant increase from the previous standard fee of Rs.150.

The Department of Registration of Persons (DRP) emphasized that applicants submitting documents for new ID cards or duplicates through the online system must use photographs taken by a registered photographer. 

This new regulation aims to ensure consistent quality and compliance with established standards.

In another, the DRP announced the launch of digital ID cards, starting in January 2024. Initially, this initiative will benefit applicants applying for new ID cards. 

Over time, the government plans to gradually transition all citizens to digital ID cards, marking a significant leap in Sri Lanka's digital identity landscape.