Biometric technology will soon be integrated into Morocco’s government ID cards and allow for citizens to access public administration and private services without life or residence certificates. Until now, these documents have been necessary to apply for state pensions and access public programs and health benefits. The news was announced in Rabat by the Moroccan Minister of Interior, Abdelouafi Laftit on October 29, 2019.
The bill states that a new National Electronic Identity Card (CNIE), empowered by biometric data, will serve as the Moroccan official proof of identity. These cards will be lower in cost and accessible to minors starting immediately after birth. Previously, only Moroccans 18 and older could apply for an identity card.
Laftit commented that the bill is ready and will be reviewed again by parliament in the coming weeks. It is anticipated to be set into motion in 2020.