Papua New Guinea Launches National Digital ID

Papua New Guinea is rolling out SevisPass, the country’s first fully functional national digital identity system. SevisPass aims to provide all citizens with a secure, standardized credential for accessing government and private services. 

What Is SevisPass?

SevisPass is a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) designed to enable seamless verification and authentication across sectors. Citizens can use it for eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) in banking, telecom activation, accessing government services, and even e‑voting during the 2027 elections. It includes features such as biometric registration, consent-based data sharing, and single sign-on (SSO) functionality via the SevisPortal platform.

The system also introduces a secure data exchange environment and a regulatory Digital ID Policy to protect user privacy and ensure interoperability.

Key Implementation Steps

Between May and June 2025, PNG’s Department of ICT began a nationwide data integration exercise, working with partners like the Civil Registry, banks, telcos, and superannuation funds. This process includes accrediting SevisPass providers, establishing secure infrastructure, and running stakeholder workshops to discuss rollout and governance.

The policy and operational framework under the Digital ID Policy prioritizes inclusion, privacy by design, scalability, and support for rural and multilingual communities.

Why SevisPass Matters

• Financial & Service Inclusion: SevisPass is expected to onboard millions of previously unbanked or underserved citizens, including rural populations, into the formal economy. The initiative could add 3–5 % to PNG’s GDP by improving participation in telecom, banking, and digital commerce.

• Government Efficiency: It underpins platforms like the G2C portal, eProcurement, and Investment Portal, offering standardized login and authentication across services.

• Security & Trust: Built with global best practices in data protection and digital governance, the system emphasizes encryption, consent controls, and compliance with newly enacted regulations.

Broader Infrastructure & Governance

SevisPass is part of PNG’s multi-year Digital Government Plan, which includes:

• A shared digital infrastructure stack (GovCloud, GovNetwork, shared micro-services)

• Multi-channel eGovernment portals (Citizens’ Portal, Investment Portal, eVoter, etc.)

• A governance structure integrating the Digital Government Act, national ICT policy, and new cyber and data protection regulations.

The Department of ICT has also published a Corporate Plan for 2024–2027 that expands cloud, cybersecurity, and public digital media efforts.

Future Outlook

With final public consultation on the Digital ID Policy scheduled for July 2025, SevisPass aims for phased deployment across government and private sectors by the end of 2025.

Future enhancements may include mobile enrolment, offline authentication options, multilingual and disability-accessible interfaces, and integration with cross-border services.