While it is yet to be rolled out, in February 2024, Samoa’s digital ID system as well as its main legislative framework were envisioned under the National Digital Identification Act (the Act) as a part of the country’s CRVS framework. [10]This framework will introduce a unique 10-digit identification number (SDIN) and create a national identity database which will store biometric information of applicants. [11]The objectives of the National Digital Identification System (NDIDS), outlined in the Act, are “to provide a modern national digital identification system for the registration of a citizen and a resident of Samoa; (b) to provide a digital, unique, legally recognised identity for a registered person; and (c) to provide a function for authentication of a registered person, while protecting personal data associated with the system.” [12]
In April 2023, Samoa sought out firms to “to provide implementation support and advisory services” such as “technical advisory services on system design and architecture” as well as “vendor oversight and quality assurance for security risk, data protection, [and] digital authentication services delivery for the NDIDS.” [13]The World Bank granted $21 million to Samoa in October 2024 to establish this digital ID system and modernize its existing CRVS system. [14]According to the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, the agency has identified the 2031 Census as a realistic target to finalize the national digital ID process. [15]
In the next ten years, they aim to integrate the system into their legal identity framework as a foundational and functional ID as press releases have stated that the NDIDS will ideally provide a new and primary authoritative foundation for the registration of Samoan populations as well as a “function for authenticating [an individual’s identity] in connection with the provision of services with them”. [16]It is unclear as of May 2023 which services may be attached to the NDIDS.
Those eligible for NDIDS will include Samoan citizens and residents of Samoa. [17]In order to register, one must present proof of identity, including a birth certificate or passport. [18]In absence of these documents, one may also submit “any other official document issued by an appropriate authority in Samoa or overseas as evidence of a person’s identity”. [19]Non-citizens and non-residents cannot apply for the NDIDS, as it is stated in the Act that “no SDIN is assigned to non-citizen and non-resident of Samoa”. [20]Under the Immigration Act (2004), one may apply for permanent residence if they are in good health, character, and standing, and observe the laws of Samoa, among other requirements up to Cabinet and Minister discretion. [21]This provision suggests that it would be possible for a stateless person to apply for permanent residence in Samoa. Therefore, stateless persons may not be excluded from the NDIDS, however, they would first need to gain permanent residency, which could present administrative barriers. There have been no official announcements that the digital ID in Samoa will be mandatory.
