Belgium
Belgium is an exciting European country to visit, but what if you moved there? Belgium is a forward thinking country. They are years ahead in the fight against fraud and identity theft. How are they ahead? They have turned to electronic ID cards that can easily log your activity and monitor for anything that is out of the ordinary. So if you are moving to Belgium, and you want to know how to get an electronic identity card, here is how you go about doing it.
What is an electronic ID Card?
In 2005, Belgium began using eiD Cards for identification. If you are over the age of 12, you need an electronic ID card. If you’re over 15 years old, you need to have your card with you at all times. EID cards have a chip that acts as a secure document of identity. Chips are used to communicate electronically with the administration authorities. It has all your personal info on it. The card is used as an authentic signature. It replaces the paper residence permit for foreigners, and it allows foreigners to gain access to e-government.
How long does your electronic ID remain valid?
The cards are valid for 5 years if you become a resident. It is only valid for a year if you have a foreign card. They are not renewable. You will have to get a new one before the expiration date for a nominal fee.
How do I get the electronic ID Card?
You can apply for an electronic ID Card at the Administrative Centre and other local municipality offices. You can put in a demand or request for one at one office and ask to collect it at another office.
In order to get an eID card, you will have to do/have the following documents:
- Fill out 2 eIC application forms
- A copy of your citizenship certification of your native country (birth certificate)
- 2 recent passport pictures
- A driver’s license or any document with your current address
- A work visa if necessary
How long does it take to get an electronic ID card?
This depends on your circumstances. You can pay extra to get an emergency ID card. For example, if you are leaving the country and need a new one immediately, they will process you right away. You can come pick up your card from an office or get it sent via mail. Most people opt to pick it up. This application process takes up to 6 weeks.
Further Reading
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About Addison Sears-Collins
Hey! I'm Addison Sears-Collins, the founder of Visa Hunter. You can learn more about me here. Connect with me by liking my fan page on Facebook, connecting with me on Twitter, or check out my website Automatic Addison where I build robots and embedded systems.
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