BEGINNING in July 2026, citizens in Papua New Guinea are expected to be able to claim their electronic National ID (eNID) through SevisWallet, as part of the government's broader digital identity rollout. The initiative is designed to let people securely receive and use their digital identity from a mobile device instead of relying solely on a physical ID.
The Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Peter Tsiamalili Jr, MP, and the Minister for Administrative Services, Richard Masere, MP, today announced that their respective ministries are working together to streamline efforts to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s digital identity ecosystem.
Through this collaboration, the Civil Registry will facilitate a secure, citizen-consent based integration between the National Identification Database and SevisWallet. This will enable citizens whose records are held within the NID database, currently numbering approximately 4.2 million, to claim their NID in digital form as an eNID Verifiable Credential.
The Ministers confirmed that the eNID Verifiable Credential will be available through SevisWallet from 21 July 2026.
They emphasized that citizen consent is central to the design and implementation of this integration. Identity information will not be transferred or used without the consent of the
citizen and this is consistent with both the Civil Identity and Registry Act and the Digital Government Act. The SevisWallet App will provide citizens with a secure and convenient way to claim, store and use their eNID Credential in digital form.
Once available, citizens will be able to store their eNID Verifiable Credential in SevisWallet alongside other trusted digital credentials, including SevisPass and Police Clearance Certificates. Citizens who claim their eNID Credential will also be able to upgrade their SevisPass to Tier 2, enabling access to more digital services, including financial services and other regulated services requiring stronger identity verification.
Minister Tsiamalili Jr said the initiative is an important step in building Papua New Guinea’s national trust infrastructure.
“SevisWallet will allow citizens to carry trusted digital credentials in a secure, consent-based and convenient way. This will reduce reliance on physical documents, improve access to services, and support stronger participation in the digital economy.”
Minister Masere said the Civil Registry remains the custodian of civil identity records and will continue to safeguard the integrity of the NID database.
“By enabling citizens to claim their NID in digital form through SevisWallet, we are improving service delivery while maintaining the authority and integrity of the Civil Registry.”
The ministers further confirmed that the next step will be to utilise eNID and SevisWallet to support the update of the Electoral Roll, in close consultation with the Electoral Commission and relevant authorities.
The Government encourages citizens to start downloading the SevisWallet App in advance, now available on Google Play and the Apple App Store, in preparation for the eNID Verifiable Credential becoming available from 21 July 2026.
Papua New Guinea has marked its 50th Independence Anniversary with a weeklong celebration across the country that concluded peacefully, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC).
Minister for Police Peter Tsiamalili Jr. expressed heartfelt appreciation to every member of the force—our “blue angels” – for the outstanding work they carried out in safeguarding peace, order, and security in Port Moresby, throughout the 21 provinces, and in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville during this historic Golden Jubilee.
“From the first flag-raising at Independence Hill to the final concert at Sir John Guise Stadium, our police officers demonstrated professionalism, discipline, and selfless sacrifice at the highest standard,” Mr Tsiamalili said.
“You stood watch day and night, away from your families, so that our people could celebrate in unity and dignity. I want each and every one of you to know – your country, your government and I as your Minister are deeply proud of you.”
The Minister emphasized that the success of the RPNGC reflected not only the dedication of officers but also the growing strength of the force under the Marape – Rosso Government’s reforms and investments.
“Through the National Budget, the Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA) with Australia, and support from other development partners, the Government is building a stronger and more capable Constabulary for the future,” he said.
“The BSA is not just an agreement – it is a commitment to strengthening policing, cyber security, border protection, defence, and disaster response, while firmly protecting PNG’s sovereignty.
“Together with the Government’s Budget Support and bilateral contributions, we are positioning the Constabulary to meet the challenges of the next 50 years.”
The Minister also pointed to the Police Housing Scheme Policy as a major reform aimed at improving the welfare of officers and their families.
“Our officers are human beings first – mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. When their living conditions improve, their service to our nation becomes even stronger. This Government is committed to supporting their wellbeing as much as their policing work.”
Minister Tsiamalili reaffirmed his gratitude and confidence in the force: “The Golden Jubilee celebrations have shown us what we can achieve when we stand together in discipline, unity, and service.
“To every officer – from the most senior commander to the newest recruit – I say thank you. You are the guardians of our peace today, and the builders of a strongeppppppppr, safer Papua New Guinea for the next generation.”
