Program:

• To provide registered Indians with a card certifying their Indian status.
• To take measures to ensure as far as possible that the Certificate of Indian Status all service providers will accept the CIS.

Program History / Background:

CIS cards (commonly referred to as "status cards") are issued by the Registrar to indicate that the cardholder is registered as an Indian in accordance with the Indian Act.

Prior to March 1997, status cards issued by the department had no renewal date. There are many older versions of the status card still in circulation. In addition, Aboriginal associations, First Nations and even some provincial governments now issue their own cards for various purposes.

It was decided that introducing a status card that is valid for a specific period of time might create a higher level of confidence in the card. By renewing their card every five (5) years, people who are registered under the ACT should not experience difficulties when using the CIS card for various purposes.

Description of Operations:

The status card is issued through First Nations and DIAND offices as part of the registration process. The applicant completes an application for a card and provides identification and photograph. The required information is entered on the card, the photograph is attached and the applicant signs the card. It is then laminated and given to the applicant.

Whenever possible, the status card is issued in person. If necessary it is issued by mail.

Application for Certificate of Indian Status (PDF 36 Kb)
83-009 E, ver. 01-2001

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