The Straits Times

18 October 2013

 

IC replacement fee covers production cost

 

WE REFER to Mr Richard Soon's letter ("Wear-and-tear cases: Waive IC replacement fee"; Oct 8).

 

The national registration identity card is an important document used by an individual to identify himself when transacting with the public and private sectors here.

 

It is made of a highly durable polycarbonate material that has been subjected to stringent tests to ensure its durability, and is not easily damaged during normal handling.

 

A fee of $60 is charged for replacing a damaged card to recover the production cost, which includes manpower, material and other costs incurred in producing a new card.

 

However, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority will consider waiving the fee for cases that warrant special consideration.

 

These may include situations where the card was damaged due to circumstances beyond the cardholder's control, such as accidents or fire.

 

Serene Wong (Ms)

Deputy Head, Public & Internal Communications

Corporate Communications Division

Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

 

 

 

<Original Letter>

The Straits Times

8 October 2013

 

Wear-and-tear cases: Waive IC replacement fee

 

IT COSTS $60 to replace an identity card, and this can be quite a burden for low-income earners.

 

Surely the cost can be lowered, with the advent of technology, and since most of the data required is already in the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority's electronic databank.

 

Considering that many people carry their ICs with them wherever they go, the cards will be subject to wear and tear and need to be replaced over time.

 

Perhaps the authority can consider waiving the replacement fee for genuine wear-and-tear cases.

 

Richard Soon