Alright, so I recently went through the whole process of getting an Ivory Coast ID card, and let me tell you, it was a bit of a wild ride. I figured I’d share my experience here in case anyone else is thinking of doing the same.
First off, I started by doing some digging online to see what the deal was. I found out that you can supposedly schedule an appointment online or by phone. I tried the online thing first, but the website was a total mess and I couldn’t find any appointment system. So, I ended up calling the number I found (+225 20 00 48 76). Surprisingly, someone actually answered, and they told me I had to go in person to the Resident Card Application Center in Abidjan to submit my application.
Gathering the Documents
Next, I had to get all my documents in order. This was a whole ordeal in itself. I mean, who knows where all this stuff is, right? I needed to apply for a Foreigner ID, so I went to the official website and looked up the checklist for a resident card application. Turns out, I needed a bunch of stuff, including something called an Ivorian Police Record and a Certificate of Residence. I also had to get some passport photos taken. I found some online service that claimed they could do it quickly and conveniently from home, so I gave that a shot. Worked out okay, I guess.
- Passport photos – Got these done online. Not too painful.
- Ivorian Police Record – This was a headache. No clear instructions on how to get it. Just something about needing it if you’re over 18.
- Certificate of Residence – Another mystery. Had to figure out where to get this.
The Application Center
So, I gathered all my paperwork (or at least what I thought was all of it) and headed to the application center in Abidjan. The place was packed. I took a number and waited for what felt like forever. Finally, my number was called, and I went up to the counter.
The person there started going through my documents. Turns out, I was missing a few things, and some of my forms weren’t filled out properly. They gave me some new forms and told me to fill them out and come back. Ugh.
More Paperwork and Waiting
I spent the next few days running around, trying to get the missing documents and filling out the forms correctly. It was a real pain in the neck. I even had to purchase a stamp through the ONECI website for the renewal of the National Identification Card. Finally, I went back to the application center, armed with what I hoped was everything I needed.
Another long wait, another trip to the counter. This time, they accepted all my documents. They told me I’d receive an SMS when my ID card was ready for collection. They didn’t say how long it would take, so I just had to wait.
The Waiting Game
Weeks went by, and no SMS. I started to get worried. I went back to the application center a couple of times to check on the status, but they just told me to wait for the SMS. I was beginning to wonder if I’d ever get this ID card.
Finally
Then, one day, out of the blue, I got the SMS! My ID card was ready! I rushed back to the application center, waited in line one last time, and finally, I had it in my hand. My very own Ivory Coast ID card.
Honestly, the whole process was way more complicated and time-consuming than I expected. But hey, I got it done. If you’re planning to get an Ivory Coast ID card, be prepared for a lot of paperwork, long waits, and a bit of frustration. Good luck!
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