Cameroon: The new identity card in 48 hours

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From Monday 17 February 2025, Cameroonians will be able to apply for their National Identity Card (CNI) online via the www.idcam.cm platform. This innovation, announced by the General Delegation for National Security, is part of a drive to simplify and speed up identification procedures, while reducing the time taken to produce this precious document.

I – A two-stage process

The new system introduces a procedure divided into two distinct phases:

 1 – Online pre-registration (from 17 February 2025)

Citizens are invited to visit www.idcam.cm to fill in a digital form, enter their personal details and make an appointment for the next stage. This digitisation of initial procedures is designed to streamline the process and avoid long queues.

 2 – Physical enrolment and submission of documents (from 24 February 2025)

After pre-registration, applicants will have to go to the identification posts in the regional capitals with the required documents. Once the documents have been checked, production of the identity card will begin, with delivery guaranteed within 48 hours. This is a significant time saving compared with the often-criticised delays of the past.

II – Taking account of special situations

The General Delegation for National Security has also provided clarifications for specific cases:

• Citizens holding receipts from the old system: The authorities have given assurances that current cases are being processed and that the corresponding identity cards will be produced progressively. No additional steps are required for these people.
• Citizens with dual identities: Since 10 January 2025, applications relating to dual identities have already been examined. However, those concerned must pre-register at www.idcam.cm in order to migrate to the new system and regularise their situation.

III – Towards more efficient administration

This digital shift marks a key stage in the modernisation of Cameroon’s administration. By dematerialising the initial stage, the State hopes to reduce data entry errors, optimise human resources and offer a more transparent service. Users, particularly young people and people living far from urban centres, will find it much more practical.

Some practical information

• Official website: https://www.idcam.cm
• Documents required: Details will be available on the platform.
• Issuing time: 48 hours after physical enrolment.

With this new system, Cameroon is strengthening its commitment to digital inclusion and citizenship, while meeting the legitimate expectations of its population for efficient public services!

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