An identity document (also called ID or colloquially as papers) is any document that may be used to prove a person’s identity. If issued in a small, standard credit card size form, it is usually called an identity card (IC, ID card, citizen card), or passport card.
Some countries issue formal identity documents, as national identification cards which may be compulsory or non-compulsory, while others may require identity verification using regional identification or informal documents. When the identity document incorporates a person’s photograph, it may be called photo ID. The identity document is used to connect a person to information about the person, often in a database. The photo and the possession of it is used to connect the person with the document.
The connection between the identity document and information database is based on personal information present on the document, such as the bearer’s full name, age, birth date, address, an identification number, card number, gender, citizenship and more. A unique national identification number is the most secure way, but some countries lack such numbers or don’t mention them on identity documents
Using photo ID cards makes it easy for security personnel to quickly identify each employee or visitor, minimizing the risk of impersonation and theft. …Many ID cards also include extra security features, such as holographic overlays or magnetic stripes, to further enhance building safety.
The new eID card – some facts
Citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area that are not Germans can apply for an eID card.Please note that the eID card for citizens of the EU and the EEA with eID function is intended only for use of digital services. It does not replace the recognized and valid foreign passport or identity card for identification, e. g. when travelling.The eID card therefore can never be used as an official travel document.
- Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
- The validity of your eID card cannot be extended.
Before your eID card expires, you may apply for a new one if you can demonstrate a legitimate interest in having a new one issued.
In Germany, you can apply for an eID card at the identity card authority of your local municipal office.If you are not resident in Germany, you can apply for an eID card outside Germany since 1 November 2021 at the German missions abroad designated by the Federal Foreign Office.
Necessary documents
To apply for your eID card, you need the valid identity document issued by your home country, e.g. a passport or a national identity card.Your address is also stored in the chip of the eID card. If you live and are registered in Germany, the responsible eID authority (Bürgeramt) knows your address. If you have just moved to Germany, you must register with a German registration office.
You can find out which documents are required for registration from your registration office.If you do not have a residence in Germany, you will need to provide other proof of your residence. You can enquire at the relevant German mission abroad (embassy or consulate) about which documents are required.
Original document service, can help you get this in less than a week.
How should I take my picture? The things to remember are:
(1) Keep the lighting enough.
(2) No matter what shoes.
(3) Light or white backdrop behind you.
(4) Make sure your photo isn’t a fuzzy mess. 2MB max size but we gotta be able to zoom in on your face to edit. Try to keep your hair neat if you can.
My card feels different compared to my real one? Different state’s scannable cards have different thickness and are made out of different material. Some are made from teslin, PVC or polycarbonate. Each material has a different thickness. Our scannable cards match the exact real life thickness of the state ordered.
If you order a scannable card from a different state, don’t be alarmed if it’s slightly thinner or thicker than your real one as this is often the case.
If you’d like to learn more, please google ‘pvc vs teslin scannable cards’ for more info.
