Cambodia Urges Citizens to Obtain National ID Cards for Voting and Services

The Ministry of Information has strongly urged provincial and capital information departments to widely publicize the importance of obtaining Cambodian national identity cards, emphasizing that these documents are essential for citizens to participate in elections and exercise their legal rights. This directive was issued during a meeting on "Public Opinion Information Work" held on July 14, 2026, in Kampong Speu province, targeting officials from provincial and capital information departments. Tep Asnarith, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Information, specifically instructed these departments, particularly Kampong Speu's, to focus on producing and disseminating more comprehensive content about the significance of obtaining a Cambodian national ID card. Asnarith highlighted that the national ID card is a crucial document for every citizen, necessary for accessing public services, registering to vote, and completing various legal procedures. He also called for reminders to citizens whose ID cards are nearing expiry or have already expired, urging them to renew them promptly to avoid disruptions in their daily lives. The Ministry of Interior previously announced that individuals applying for their first national ID card, aged 15 and above, must present a birth certificate or a copy thereof, and a residency book or family book (original or certified copy). For expired (over 10 years) or damaged/lost cards, the old card must be presented. In cases of loss, a certificate of loss from the competent authority (police post) is required. Citizens can obtain their Cambodian national ID cards at administrative police posts in their commune/sub-district, or at district/municipal police inspectorates, as well as at provincial/capital police headquarters, the National Identification Department, or Aeon Mall 2.