Quick Answer
The Iranian Kart Melli (کارت ملی) is the smart national ID card required for most civil and consular processes in Iran. From the United States or Canada, Kart Melli applications are submitted through the Iranian Interests Section and require an in-person fingerprinting appointment. ICS assists with Mikhak registration, document preparation, and appointment coordination.
First-Time Kart Melli
Iranians who have never received a Kart Melli can apply for their first card through the Iranian Interests Section. A Mikhak registration is required, along with the Shenasnameh and other supporting documents. An in-person fingerprinting appointment is part of the process.
Kart Melli Renewal
Iranian Kart Melli cards are issued with an expiration date. Renewal requires a new Mikhak registration, updated photographs, and an in-person fingerprinting appointment at the Iranian Interests Section. ICS assists with Mikhak registration, document preparation, and appointment coordination.
Lost or Damaged Kart Melli
A lost or damaged Kart Melli can be replaced through the Iranian Interests Section. A replacement application requires a Mikhak registration, a written statement for lost cards, and the original damaged card for damaged-card applications. ICS assists with the complete preparation.
Finding Your Code Melli
The Code Melli is a 10-digit Iranian national identification number. It can sometimes be found on existing Iranian documents including a previous Kart Melli, the Shenasnameh, or an Iranian passport. If you cannot locate your Code Melli, ICS can assist with the process of determining it through the appropriate channels.
Card Production Delays
After an in-person fingerprinting appointment, the Kart Melli is produced in Iran and mailed to the Iranian Interests Section, which then mails it to the applicant. Production and delivery timelines are outside ICS's control. ICS provides status-inquiry guidance.
Name Discrepancies on the Kart Melli
The name on the Kart Melli is taken from the Iranian civil registry. If there is a discrepancy between your Kart Melli and your other documents, the underlying civil-registry record may need to be corrected first. ICS reviews your documents and identifies whether a name correction is needed before the Kart Melli application proceeds.
Can the Process Be Completed Entirely from Abroad?
The Mikhak registration and document preparation phases can be completed entirely remotely with ICS assistance. However, the fingerprinting appointment must be completed in person at the Iranian Interests Section in Washington, D.C. (for U.S. residents) or at the relevant Iranian consular office in Canada. In-person attendance at this appointment cannot be waived.
How Kart Melli Issues Affect Other Iranian Matters
An expired, lost, or incorrect Kart Melli can affect other Iranian processes: passport renewal, Shenasnameh transactions, property registration, inheritance proceedings, and more. Resolving Kart Melli issues early can prevent delays in downstream processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to get a Kart Melli from the U.S.?
Yes. A mandatory in-person fingerprinting appointment at the Iranian Interests Section is part of the Kart Melli process. ICS assists with scheduling coordination and document preparation for the appointment.
My Kart Melli has my name spelled differently than my passport. Which one is correct?
Both documents reflect the same Iranian civil-registry record but may use different transliterations. The civil-registry record itself is the authoritative source. ICS reviews both documents and advises on whether a discrepancy needs to be addressed in the civil registry before proceeding.
I have never had a Code Melli. Can I still apply for a Kart Melli?
If you have a Shenasnameh and are registered in the Iranian civil registry, you should have a Code Melli assigned. ICS can assist with locating or confirming it through the appropriate process.
My Kart Melli was produced in Iran but I have not received it. What should I do?
Card delivery from Iran through the Iranian Interests Section can take several months. ICS can help you prepare a status-inquiry request to the Interests Section.
Last reviewed: August 2026