The recognized form of legal identity in Fiji is the birth certificate,[1] which confers Fijian citizenship when completed in accordance with the guidelines of Fiji’s Citizenship Act (2009).[2] Fiji hosts a “robust CRVS system”.[3] With access to a birth certificate, Fijians can access five additional documents which are legally recognised identities.[4] These are a tax identification number (TIN), a voter ID card, a Fiji National Provident Fund card, a driving licence and a passport.[5] However, only 71% of the total population of Fiji holds access to a birth certificate (as of 2021), which signifies that 29% of the population cannot access the services associated with such documentation.[6] The country does not currently have national identity cards for its citizens, but since 2024, the Fijian government has been working towards establishing a single proof of identity through the National ID.[7]
Fiji lacks a national digital ID system but is currently working on developing one through the expansion of its National ID system.[8] In its inaugural meeting in February 2025, Fiji’s National Identification (ID) Steering Committee approved the project’s budget and timelines, key stakeholders for engagement, the governance structure, and the drafting of necessary legislation.[9] In June 2024, Fiji’s Cabinet approved the digital ID program with hopes that it will contribute to reducing poverty and increase efficiency of government service delivery.[10] The Fijian government plans to make the digital ID a key part of its expanding digital public infrastructure and has estimated another 3 years for its completion.[11] With the plan to improve service delivery with the new digital ID, it is likely to be implemented as a functional ID.[12] In its October 2024 press release, the Fiji administration reported that it is working in conjunction with Japan’s Digital Government Agency, Asian Development Bank, and other stakeholders on the new digital transformation program.[13]
From the limited information available, it is unclear whether foreign citizens, refugees, dual citizens, or stateless persons would be eligible for the national digital ID. Currently, the digital ID is described as a universal identification system intended for all citizens, suggesting that its primary focus is on Fijian nationals.[14]
Fiji’s broader digital government transformation program, the digitalFIJI initiative, which includes development of the national digital ID program is being undertaken in collaboration with the Government of Japan.[15] The government anticipates that the program will facilitate easier access to government services for those in need.[16]
