National Identity Card: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to obtain your official French ID card for identification and travel within the EU.
The National Identity Card is an official document used to prove your identity and serves as a valid travel document for trips within the European Union.
Who it's for
This scheme is available to French citizens. If you hold French nationality, you are eligible to apply for this card to serve as your primary method of identification.
What you get
You receive a physical identification card that serves two main purposes. First, it acts as a valid form of ID for daily administrative tasks and verifying your identity. Second, it functions as a travel document that allows you to travel within the European Union.
What it costs you
The issuance of the card is free. There are no administrative fees for the document itself. However, there is a requirement for your time and presence; you must visit your local town hall, known as a Mairie, to complete the necessary steps. This visit is required so that officials can collect your fingerprints as part of the biometric verification process.
The catch to know
The biggest hurdle is not the cost, but the availability of service. Because these cards require an in-person visit to a town hall for fingerprinting, you must secure an appointment. In many areas, these appointments are in high demand, and you may find that they are booked many months into the future. It is wise to plan well ahead of any upcoming travel needs to account for these long waiting lists.
How to apply
- Gather your necessary identification documents to prove your citizenship and current identity.
- Visit the official portal to begin the process or check requirements.
- Secure an appointment at your local town hall (Mairie) to provide your fingerprints.
- Attend your appointment in person to complete the biometric registration.
- Wait for the processing period to finish and collect your card.
Check the official portal for more details: https://ants.gouv.fr