The bar-coded light blue ID card or Omang card (Omang is a Tswana word for ‘WHO ARE YOU’) is the basic form of proving identity in Botswana. Being able to prove who you are is very important for taking part in the economy and having access to basic services. Without an Omang card, you can’t open a bank account, can’t apply for government grants, would struggle to apply for work and can’t vote. Getting your Omang card is your first step to fast forward your future!

Who can apply?

You should be a citizen of Botswana or permanent resident of 16 years. It is an offence to fail to register for an ID within a month after reaching 16 years and the penalty for late registration is a high fee or six months imprisonment. An Omang card expires after ten years and should be renewed at least a month before it expires.

Where can you apply?

You can apply for an ID at any District Registration office (Omang Office) of the department of Civil and National Registration under the ministry of Labor and Home Affairs.

What do you need to bring along?

• A certified copy of your birth certificate and/or a reference book number, or, if appli cable, a copy of the TBVC-countries’ identity or travel document should be submitted.
• If a person is married, the marriage certificate must be submitted.
• An immigrant who applies for the initial issue of an identity document has to attach his/her permanent residence permit, naturalization or exemption certificate, where applicable.
• Photographs will be taken for free when you submit the forms.

How long does it take?

It takes approximately 2 weeks to get an ID.