Maisha Card, Apply Online for Maisha Digital ID

The Maisha Card is an electronic ID card newly introduced in Kenya that will upgrade the ID processing systems, equipment, and materials. The card has a chip that keeps data safe and makes it hard to fake or change. This article provides complete information about Maisha Card, including how to apply online for the Maisha Digital ID, its features, benefits, and more.

What's Covered

The new Maisha Digital ID card replaces the current one and includes a photo of the applicant, an ID number, a card serial number, biometric and biographic information, residential details, and advanced security measures. The Maisha Card follows the standards of ICAO. Kenyan citizens can use it for travel within the East African community.

The card application process will be automated, making the ID registration process more efficient, improving access to registration services, and reducing business costs in ASAL and remote areas. The electronic card will make it easier for public and private institutions to validate personal identification data. This will simplify citizens’ access to services.

What is Maisha Card?

The Maisha Card is a third-generation national electronic ID card that will replace the current second-generation ID in Kenya. It features enhanced security details, including a microprocessor electronic chip with encrypted data that is difficult to forge or manipulate. The card has a photo of the person, an ID number, a card serial number, biometric data, personal information, address details, and advanced security features.

Eligibility for Maisha Digital ID in Kenya

All Kenyans turning 18 years
Newborns will also be issued with Maisha Namba to be used in their Birth certificates. Once they attain 18 years, the number will be translated to their Maisha Card.

Features of Maisha Card

Maisha Cards offer the convenience of UPI, which stands for Unified Personal Identifier, commonly known as Maisha Namba. Here are the key features of the card:

Front Side Features:

Made of polycarbonate material.
Use rainbow printing to protect artwork.
Unique Personal Identifier (UPI) / ID Number.
ICAO-compliant data arrangement.
Supports laser engraving print technology and color photographs

Back Side Features:

Visual feature that can be seen with the naked eye.
Visual feature that can be seen under ultraviolet light.

How to Apply for Maisha Card – Online Application or not?

The process for applying for a Maisha Card will be announced by the Kenyan government. When the application process begins, you will be asked to provide your biometric and biographic information, as well as your residential details.The application process will be automated, which will enhance efficiency in the ID registration process, improve access to registration services, and reduce the cost of doing business in ASAL and remote areas.

At this very moment, this project is currently being implemented on a pilot basis. As soon as we have more details on Maisha Card application process, the same will be updated right here.

What was the need of Maisha Card?

The Maisha Card was introduced to modernize the ID processing systems, equipment, and materials in Kenya. It is expected to result in issuing a more secure identification document, thereby reducing counterfeiting. The card will also make the delivery of government services faster, more efficient, and transparent. Upgrading AFIS to ABIS will create a more inclusive identification system. The electronic card will make it easier for public and private institutions to verify people’s identification data. This will make it simpler for citizens to access services.