Georgia’s Minister of Health, Mikheil Sarjveladze, on Monday emphasized the importance for citizens with non-electronic ID cards to replace them with modern ID cards to avoid disruptions in receiving pensions and other social benefits.

Sarjveladze highlighted that a significant number of citizens still held non-electronic ID cards that were issued before July 28, 2011, which have now lost their legal validity in Georgia. Despite efforts and a government decree allowing free replacement of these IDs, many have not yet taken advantage of this opportunity, he said. 

“To avoid any obstacles in receiving pensions and social allowances, the Government of Georgia has decided to ensure that there will be no obstacles in disbursing these funds during the next month. However, this does not extend the validity of non-electronic ID cards,” Sarjveladze said.

He stressed that this grace period was temporary and urged citizens to apply for a modern ID card at the Houses of Justice. “The government will continue to support those needing to replace their ID cards as much as possible,” Sarjveladze assured, urging immediate action to ensure uninterrupted access to essential social benefits.