The National Government announced a significant change in the accreditation of disability. Starting January 1, 2025, the citizenship ID will be the only official document that recognizes this condition, rendering the disability card invalid, according to Article 12 of the Organic Law on Disabilities.

• What does this change imply?

• Elimination of the disability card: As of December 31, 2024, cards issued by the National Council for the Equality of Disabilities (CONADIS) or the Ministry of Public Health (MSP) will no longer be valid.
• Administrative simplification: The ID will be the only document necessary for processing in public and private institutions.
• Access to benefits: The updated ID will allow people with disabilities to access the benefits established in the Organic Law on Disabilities, such as exemptions and priority attention.

• How to update the ID?

• Visit the nearest Civil Registry.
• It will not be necessary to schedule appointments for this procedure.
• Information about disability will be incorporated directly into the ID during the visit.
• If a person with a disability cannot go to the Civil Registry offices, they can request a mobile brigade through a request available on the Civil Registry website, which can be submitted in writing or via email to the address servicios@registrocivil.gob.ec.

Note: The process is free for individuals with a disability percentage of 30% or higher. For other citizens, the cost will be US $16.00.

• Service hours and dates

The Civil Registry will operate during its usual hours, from 08:00 to 17:00, on December 26, 27, 30, and 31, 2024.

• What will the new ID look like?

The new design of the ID will include:

• A polycarbonate chip that will store biometric data.
• A QR code for quick and secure validation.
• Visible information on the front regarding the type of disability, its percentage, and the holder's condition.

Note: This procedure will be personal, and only the interested person should attend, except in cases of minors or those needing assistance.

This ensures that people with disabilities can access services and benefits efficiently and with dignity.

If you would like to know more information about the content, do not hesitate to contact us: chsalazar@robalinolaw.com.