How to Get and Print Your Fayda National ID in Ethiopia: A Step-by-Step Guide

Digital Fayda ID

• Initial Access: After registering for the Fayda ID, you receive a 12-digit unique identification number via SMS to your registered phone number. This number serves as your digital ID and can be used for various services without needing a physical card immediately.

• Softcopy Access: You can access a printable softcopy of your Fayda ID through the "National ID" mini-app integrated into the telebirr SuperApp. To do this:

  1. Download the telebirr SuperApp (available on iOS and Android).

  2. Open the "National ID" mini-app within it.

  3. Enter your Fayda ID number received via SMS.

  4. Retrieve and download the softcopy of your printable ID.

• Printing: This softcopy can theoretically be printed at home or at any local printing facility (e.g., a cyber café, print shop, or personal printer) since it’s a digital file. However, this is primarily a digital solution, and printing it yourself might not equate to an official physical card with security features.

Official Physical Card

• Printing Process: The Ethiopian National ID Program (NIDP) has plans for large-scale printing of physical Fayda ID cards, but this is not fully rolled out everywhere yet. If you want an official printed card (not just a softcopy printout), you need to:

  • Order Online: Visit the Fayda ID printing and delivery portal at https://card-order.fayda.et This service allows you to request a physical card, but it requires payment directly to the NIDP.

  • Collection: Once ordered, the card will either be delivered to you or made available for pickup at a designated location (details would be provided during the ordering process).

• Where to Print: The physical cards are printed by authorized entities partnered with the NIDP, such as Ethio Telecom, which collaborates on registration, printing, and distribution. You cannot print an official card yourself; it’s centralized and managed by the NIDP or its partners.

Practical Steps

1. Check Your Status: If you’ve registered and received your Fayda ID number via SMS, start with the telebirr SuperApp to get the softcopy for immediate use.

2. For a Physical Card: Go to https://card-order.fayda.et, follow the instructions to order, and pay the required fee. The site is designed for convenience and security, and it will specify delivery or pickup options.

3. Local Assistance: If you’re unsure or lack internet access, visit an Ethio Telecom service center or a Fayda registration center (often co-located with Ethio Telecom outlets) to inquire about printing or ordering your card. These centers are spread across Ethiopia, but exact locations depend on your region—urban areas like Addis Ababa are likely to have more options.

Notes

• Current Date Context: As of February 20, 2025, the Fayda system is still expanding, with over 9.2 million citizens enrolled by late 2023, aiming for 90 million by 2028. Printing infrastructure might not be fully available in all areas yet.

• Cost: The digital ID number is free, but the physical card requires payment, though specific costs aren’t publicly detailed and may vary.

• Verification: The physical card includes biometric and security features (e.g., QR codes), making it more official than a self-printed softcopy.

If you’re in a specific location (e.g., FYDA might be a typo or a place name I’m misinterpreting), let me know, and I can refine this further! For now, the telebirr SuperApp or https://card-order.fayda.et are your best starting points.