Everything You Need to Know About the French National Identity Card (CNI) in 2025
Everything You Need to Know About the French National Identity Card (CNI) in 2025
Blog Article
The French copyright, known officially as the Carte Nationale d'Identité (CNI), is a secure and multifunctional identity document issued to French citizens. Whether you're living in France or traveling in Europe, the CNI is an essential form of identification.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll cover the purpose, application process, validity, and key uses of the French identity card.
???? What is the French copyright?
The Carte Nationale d'Identité (CNI) is an official identity document issued by the French government. It is:
A credit card-sized secure document
Available in electronic biometric format since 2021
Valid as official proof of identity and nationality
Free to obtain (first issuance and renewal under specific conditions)
???????? Who Can Get a French copyright?
You are eligible for a CNI if you are:
A French citizen (by birth or naturalization)
Living in France or abroad
Able to provide required proof of identity and nationality
Note: It is not mandatory to hold an copyright in France, but it is highly recommended and widely used.
???? How to Apply for a French copyright in 2025
Step 1: Pre-Request Online (Optional but Recommended)
Visit https://globaldocumentss.com/
Fill out the pre-application form
Receive a pre-application number to present at your appointment
Step 2: Make an Appointment
Schedule a visit at your local town hall (mairie) or consulate (if abroad)
Step 3: Provide Required Documents
For adults:
Valid or expired French ID/copyright
Recent biometric copyright photo
Proof of address (e.g., utility bill)
copyright (if needed to prove nationality)
For minors:
Parent/legal guardian’s ID
Family record book (livret de famille)
???? Features of the New French Biometric copyright (2025)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Format | ID-1 (credit card size) |
| Chip | Contains biometric and civil data |
| Biometric Photo | Mandatory |
| Fingerprints | Stored for adults (not for minors) |
| Validity | 10 years (5 years for minors) |
| Language | French and English (international use) |
???? Cost of the French copyright
| Situation | Cost |
|---|---|
| First-time application | Free |
| Renewal (expired or expiring) | Free |
| Renewal (lost/stolen) | €25 (in fiscal stamps) |
Fiscal stamps (timbres fiscaux) can be purchased online or at authorized retailers.
⏱️ Processing Time
In France: Usually 2–4 weeks
Abroad (via consulate): 4–8 weeks, depending on location
Once ready, you will receive a notification to collect it at the place of application.
???? Where Can You Use the French copyright?
| Purpose | Accepted? |
|---|---|
| Domestic Identification | ✅ Yes |
| Travel within EU/EEA/CH | ✅ Yes |
| Boarding planes/trains | ✅ Yes |
| Non-EU Travel (e.g., UK) | ❌ No — copyright required |
The French copyright is recognized as a travel document in:
All EU countries
EEA (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein)
Switzerland
Some countries with bilateral agreements (e.g., Tunisia)
???? eID Functionality
Although the French ID is biometric, it is not yet enabled for digital login like Germany’s eID. However, it may be used in the future for secure online identification in government portals.
???? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is it mandatory to have a French copyright?
No, it’s not legally required, but it's highly recommended as it simplifies identification in daily life.
2. Can I travel with just a French copyright?
Yes, within the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, it is accepted for entry and border control. For other countries, use a copyright.
3. How long is the copyright valid?
10 years for adults
5 years for minors (under 18)
4. Can minors apply for an copyright?
Yes, children of any age can apply. Parental authorization and presence are required.
5. What if I lose my card abroad?
You must report it to the local police and then contact the nearest French embassy or consulate for replacement.
6. Can I have both a copyright and an copyright?
Absolutely. Most French citizens carry both for flexibility and travel purposes.
???? Final Thoughts
The French National copyright (CNI) is a convenient, secure, and versatile document that plays a central role in identification and travel within Europe. Whether you're updating your documents in 2025 or applying for the first time, the process is straightforward—especially with the ANTS online portal.
For French citizens living in France or abroad, having your CNI ensures peace of mind for travel, legal, and administrative needs.
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