Belgian ID Card

The Belgian ID card, known as the “eID” (electronic ID card), is an official identity document issued to Belgian citizens by the Federal Public Service Interior. It serves as proof of identity, nationality, and residence, and is used for a wide range of official and everyday purposes both within Belgium and internationally.

Features of the Belgian ID Card:

1. Personal Information:
   • Full Name: The card includes the holder’s full legal name.
   • Date and Place of Birth: The holder’s birthdate and place of birth are listed.
   • Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo of the holder is featured on the card.
   • Signature: The holder’s signature is displayed.
   • Gender: The holder’s gender is indicated.
   • Nationality: The card specifies that the holder is a Belgian citizen.
2. Card Details:
   • Card Number: Each card has a unique identification number.
   • Issue and Expiry Date: The dates when the card was issued and when it will expire are clearly stated.
   • Issuing Authority: The name of the authority that issued the card (usually the local municipality) is mentioned.
3. Security Features:
   • Holograms: Holographic elements are included to prevent counterfeiting.
   • Microprinting: Tiny, difficult-to-reproduce text is used for added security.
   • Barcode/QR Code: A barcode or QR code containing encoded information about the holder and the card is often included.
   • Watermarks: Watermark designs enhance the authenticity and security of the document.
   • Special Printing Techniques: Various printing techniques and inks are used to prevent forgery.
   • Optically Variable Ink: Ink that changes color when viewed from different angles is used for added security.
   • Laser Engraving: Some elements may be engraved with a laser to provide a tactile feature that is hard to replicate.
   • Electronic Chip: An embedded chip contains personal data, digital certificates for authentication and digital signatures, and other information for enhanced security and functionality.
4. Additional Information:
   • Residential Address: The holder’s residential address is included.
   • Digital Certificates: The card includes digital certificates for secure online authentication and digital signatures, allowing the holder to perform secure online transactions and access e-government services.
   • Machine-Readable Zone (MRZ): The card includes an MRZ to facilitate automated reading and verification at borders and other checkpoints.
   • PIN and PUK Codes: The card comes with personal identification numbers (PIN) and personal unlocking keys (PUK) for secure access and use of the digital certificates.

Uses:

• Proof of Identity: The eID card serves as a primary form of identification within Belgium and the EU.
• Travel Document: It can be used as a travel document within the Schengen Area.
• Access to E-Government Services: The eID card allows access to various online government services and applications.
• Digital Signatures: The card enables the holder to sign documents electronically, providing a secure and legally recognized form of digital signature.
• Banking and Online Transactions: The card can be used for secure authentication in online banking and other transactions.

The Belgian eID card is a crucial document for Belgian citizens, providing secure and reliable identification, enabling access to digital services, and ensuring the integrity of various official and legal transactions. For the most accurate and detailed information, referring to official Belgian governmental sources or specific documentation would provide comprehensive details on the card and its features.