The Republic of Portugal is issuing a new, modernized national identity card that is aligned with current regulations and security standards. Issued starting June 11, 2024, the card meets the current security standards of both the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union (EU).
Portugal’s national ID card was last redesigned in 2015 at which time it was called a “citizen card.”
Note: A slightly different version of the ID card is issued to Brazilian citizens who qualify under the Porto Seguro Treaty. Those variations are noted in this article and indicate that the card cannot be used as a travel document.
A closer look at Portugal’s new national ID card
The new identity card, shown below, is made of polycarbonate. The background design incorporates unique national symbols such as traditional Portuguese pavement and the Portuguese sea.
Front Side
Back Side
The new ID card features a larger photo of the cardholder, making it easier for authorities to identify the individual. Smaller versions of the photo are located on the front and back sides of the card.
Note: ID cards issued to Brazilian Nationals state “not valid for travel” in place of the MRZ.
A contactless chip to meet modern EU regulations
Pursuant to current EU regulations, the new Portugal ID card has a contactless chip, which enables the secure validation of the holder’s biometric and biographical data. The chip is on the back of the card and contains applications for identification, authentication, signature (IAS), travel, and biometric verification. That means the card can be used as a travel document within the European Union and Schengen area states.
The contactless chip is also a future-facing feature, as it makes it possible to add features such as public transit travel cards or access to cultural events.
To prevent the contactless chip from being read without the cardholder’s permission, there is a Card Access Number (CAN) on the front of the card. When the card is near a contactless reader, authorities must input the CAN to “open the chip” and then enter the card’s PIN.
Security features to prove authenticity
The new ID card integrates several advanced security features, including:
- The biometric symbol on the front of the card is printed in Optically Variable Ink. (Note: On ID cards issued to Brazilian Nationals, a wavy green design appears in place of the biometric symbol.)
- A multiple laser image containing the cardholder’s photo and the last three alphanumeric positions of the card number.
- The small photos of the cardholder are in a clear window.
Conclusion
Previously issued citizen ID cards shall remain valid until their expiration date. However, by August 3, 2031, all Portuguese ID cards in circulation will be of the new design.
Sources/References:
ePortugal.gov
L.V.P. Advogados
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