Certificate of Indian Status
Learn how to apply for a secure Indian Status card to access benefits, confirm your identity, and assert your Indigenous rights.
Why do First Nations need a new card?
The enhancement of security features in the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) aims to safeguard First Nations individuals against identity theft while facilitating their access to essential benefits and services. Unlike the conventional Certificate of Indian Status (CIS), which typically lacks robust security measures found in standard government-issued identity documents, such as tamper-proof features, the SCIS incorporates several improvements to counter tampering and counterfeiting.
Recognizing the vulnerability of the existing CIS to identity theft and forgery, a project was launched to bolster the security features of Status cards. This proactive approach not only mitigates the risks associated with identity theft and forgery but also ensures the continued integrity of programs and services catering to First Nations individuals.
Secure Certificate of Indian Status Advancments
The revamped SCIS introduces a variety of security enhancements, including:
- Laser etching, which directly embeds information onto the card surface;
- Tactile data featuring raised letters and numbers on the card’s surface;
- Intricate patterns of fine lines, resistant to scanning and reproduction;
- UV imagery and printing detectable with specialized equipment; and
- A transparent window, revealing a secondary photo of the cardholder from both sides.
How can I apply?
You can apply for SCIS in person by making an appointment with the IRA (Indian Registration Administrator) for Leq’á:mel First Nation:
IRA – Danielle Campbell
Email: registry@leqamel.ca
Phone: (604) 378-2549
**Phone calls, emails and text messages will be available Monday-Friday.
**Wednesdays are LFN client appointment days
Or
By completing the SCIS application form, providing all documentation and mailing it to:
National SCIS Processing Unit,
10 Wellington Street
Gatineau, QC K1A 0H4
Or
You can apply by visiting the Vancouver office:
Suite 600
1138 Melville Street
Vancouver, B.C. V6E 4S3
Toll-Free: 1-800-665-9320
IRA Appointment Information
The Indian Registry is managed on behalf of Indian Services Canada. The department is managed by a certified Indian Registration Administrator (IRA).
The IRA for Leq’á:mel First Nation (LFN) is a First Nation employee who assists Leq’á:mel First Nation membership to apply for registration, new secure certificate of Indian status (SCIS), and renew or replace SCIS.
Wednesdays are LFN client appointment only days, please contact IRA to book an appointment.
IRA Appointment Information
The Indian Registry is managed on behalf of Indian Services Canada. The department is managed by a certified Indian Registration Administrator (IRA).
The IRA for Leq’á:mel First Nation (LFN) is a First Nation employee who assists Leq’á:mel First Nation membership to apply for registration, new secure certificate of Indian status (SCIS), and renew or replace SCIS.
Wednesdays are LFN client appointment only days, please contact IRA to book an appointment.
