Finnish police > Press releases > Changes in the identity card

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Changes in the identity card

27.05.2011

Changes will be introduced to the identity cards issued by the police. From 31 May 2011, the identity card of a Finnish citizen will be bluish in colour, the identity card of a minor purple, and the identity card of a foreign citizen brown. Identity cards issued before this date will remain valid until they expire.

The revised cards will have a number of new features enhancing security. Otherwise, the information and identifiers of the cards will remain unchanged and they can be used as before.

An identity card is a proof of the holder's identity that includes a photograph. A valid identity card can also be used as a travel document in EU Member States. What is called an identity card for a minor issued without the guardians' consent, an identity card issued to a foreign citizen or a temporary identity card is not valid as a travel document.

An identity card also contains a technical component (microchip), which is required for e-services. The chip contains the citizen certificate provided by the Population Register Centre, allowing the holder to use e-services (electronic identity card). On the applicant's request, such details as health insurance information can also be stored on the identity card. Equipped with such data, the card can be used instead of a Kela card in pharmacies and medical centres.

Identity cards are issued by the police on application. On certain conditions, an identity card can also be issued to a foreign citizen or a minor (for more information, go to the website of the Finnish Police at www.police.fi). An identity card costs EUR 51 and an identity card for a minor EUR 30. The police cash register system is undergoing modifications. For this reason, only cash is accepted for payment. The card is payable on the submission of the application.

A standard identity card is valid for 5 years. You may only hold one valid identity card at a time.

For more information, please contact: Project Manager Ismo Parviainen, tel. +358 (0)71 878 1873, ismo.parviainen@poliisi.fi









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