UNMIK/PR/1285
PRISTINA – UNMIK has simplified and improved the rules for obtaining identity cards and travel documents. The changes address some of the most frequent problems that Kosovo residents encounter when applying for documents at civil registration offices.
One of the main obstacles encountered by many applicants is that they do not possess certain supporting documents to prove identity and eligibility, in particular birth certificates and identity documents with photographs.
UNMIK Civil Administration has now issued new instructions to address these issues. The new instructions require the staff of Municipal Civil Registration Centres (MCRC) to explain to the public that applicants who are missing documents should go to municipal civil status offices where UNMIK adult birth certificates can be issued to them.
The MCRC staff are also instructed to inform the public of the use of witness declarations to establish identity for applicants who do not possess identity documents with photographs.
Under the new rules, anyone without adequate identity documents can bring two witnesses to their registration centre to sign declarations verifying their identity. Previously this option only applied to people born since 1970. Proof of eligibility is still required, and anyone born in Kosovo can obtain a birth certificate from his or her municipality.
Once applicants go through the screening process to verify their identity and eligibility, they will not be required to do so again for any civil registration and Travel Document services.
In addition, people who present unsatisfactory supporting documents or do not possess any supporting documents at all may now apply to have their application reviewed and reconsidered by the Civil Registrar for confirmation or refusal. Such applicants will be informed in writing by Municipal Civil Registration Officers of their right to appeal to the Registration Appeals Commission if no decision is taken by the Civil Registrar within 30 days.