The Straits Times
10 February 2020

IC not easily damaged with normal handling

We thank Mr Jimmy Ho Kwok Hoong for his feedback (Improve on quality of IC, Feb 7).

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

A replacement fee of $60 is charged for replacing a damaged NRIC to cover the costs incurred by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in providing this service. However, ICA will consider a waiver of the fee for cases which warrant special consideration. This may include situations where the card was damaged due to circumstances beyond the cardholder’s control such as accidents or fire.

Patrick Ong
Head
Public & Internal Communications
Corporate Communications Division
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

<Original Letter>

The Straits Times
7 February 2020

Improve on quality of IC

Singaporeans whose identity cards are damaged or defaced are required to apply for a replacement within 14 days of the date of damage.

Through wear and tear, most Singaporeans would have to change their identity card (IC) some day. Perhaps, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) could consider increasing the thickness of the card to make it stronger, reducing the need for unnecessary replacement.

I can understand the ICA slapping a $100 charge for the loss of an identity card, but $60 to replace a damaged IC is not justified. The authorities should try and improve the quality of the identity card and also reconsider its pricing.

Jimmy Ho Kwok Hoong