Iran Advances E-Government with Ban on Document Copying in Public Offices
In a significant step to modernize its public administration, Iran has officially prohibited government offices from requesting or making physical copies of citizens’ identification documents. This directive mandates a full transition to electronic identity verification systems.
A Move to Digital Authentication
The announcement was made by Hashem Kargar, Deputy Interior Minister and Head of Iran’s Civil Registration Organization. He confirmed that all executive bodies are now required to eliminate the practice of photocopying documents. Instead, they must utilize the electronic identity verification platforms provided by the Civil Registration Organization.
This new policy is enacted under a directive from the country’s Administrative and Employment Organization, reinforcing the government’s commitment to its digital transformation agenda.
Streamlining Services and Enhancing Security
Officials have highlighted multiple benefits arising from this shift. By providing direct, online access to the national population database, the new system is designed to:
- Protect Citizen Data: Securely managing digital information reduces the risk of personal data being misused or lost through physical document handling.
- Reduce Public Costs: Citizens will no longer need to bear the expense and inconvenience of obtaining and submitting paper copies.
- Promote Transparency: The digital trail enhances administrative integrity and helps prevent bureaucratic corruption.
“In line with e-government policies, our organization is rapidly expanding the necessary infrastructure for electronic authentication,” stated Kargar. He further pointed to the recent launch of “HDA” (Iranians’ Digital Identity), a system created to provide secure identity verification for online services.
Public Awareness and Legal Enforcement
The government has made it clear that compliance is not optional. Kargar emphasized that it is now illegal for any government agency to demand physical copies of identification documents from the public.
He also urged citizens to be aware of their rights, stating, “People must know that receiving any form of document copies in executive agencies is unlawful, and they can follow up on any violations through the relevant supervisory bodies.”