The belgian electronic identity card

The new electronic ID card (eID) is a multi layered security card, containing a chip with security information. The card is a response to the ongoing problem of identity theft and need for better, tamper proof ID systems.

The Belgian eID card was one of the first electronic ID cards ever designed, starting in 2000. It was considered a very ambitious concept, and there was some skepticism, but the eID system and the National Register have been quite a success story.

An average of 200,000 cards are issued per month. 8.2 million cards are expected to be operational by the end of 2009. The card represents an important milestone in creation of electronic identities with multiple capabilities.

The card contains three different signing keys for secure identification, two of which have certificates for cross checking:

• Authentication, (Identification: Certificate created)
• Non repudiation (Verification: Certificate created)
• Card registry (Record of the card itself, includes changing data like addresses, etc.)

The card requires these different keys to interact and securely access a much wider range of services and applications than a relatively simple credit card. The cards include useful information for citizens and foreign workers and a range of uses which were impossible for the old ID cards. They also contain a digital signature.

The capability to use browsers and card readers has created a much more streamlined and efficient series of applications. It’s also much less cumbersome in terms of the requirements for holders of work permits, because the various classes of resident permits and other materials are now all available from one source.

Important Note: The use of identity cards is required by law in Belgium. Loss of an ID card must be reported within 7 days. The ID card is suspended after the report. It can be reinstated for a 7 day period, after which it is permanently revoked.

EU citizens will now receive a single eID card to replace the white 1 year card and the yellow 5 year cards of the past. These cards are based on a standardized EU wide model, and look like Belgian ID cards issued to citizens.

For foreign workers, the eID card is being phased in and will replace previous ID systems over time. The application processes and legal requirements for permits are basically the same, but the eID card repays the bureaucratic side of the procedure with real efficiency.