France National Identity Card (Carte Nationale d’Identité – CNI) – Features & KYC Verification (2025)

The French National Identity Card (CNI) is the official government-issued identity document for French citizens, used domestically and across many European countries. Since 2021, France has issued a new biometric ID card in line with EU Regulation 2019/1157, featuring advanced digital and security enhancements.

Overview of the French ID Card

Issued by the Ministère de l’Intérieur (French Ministry of the Interior), the new-format French ID card is valid for both identity verification and travel within the EU and Schengen Area. It is also accepted for online KYC on regulated platforms.

Key Features of the New French ID Card (since August 2021)

Bilingual: French and English
Card format: ID-1 (credit card size)
Polycarbonate material with laser engraving
Biometric chip (contactless) storing:
- Digital photo
- Fingerprints (age 12+)
- Digital signature

Front Side Includes:

Full name (Nom, Prénom(s))
Date and place of birth (Date / Lieu de naissance)
Nationality: Française / French
Sex (Sexe)
ID number (Numéro du titre, 9 characters)
Expiry date (Valable jusqu’au)
Holder’s digital photo
Signature
French and EU flags
QR code

Back Side Includes:

Residential address
Height (Taille)
Issuing authority
MRZ (machine-readable zone)

Validity

10 years for adults and minors
Renewable upon expiry, loss, theft, or change of address

Accepted Uses

Domestic identification (banking, social services, legal)
Travel within the EU/Schengen zone (acts as a passport alternative)
KYC/AML compliance on digital platforms including:
- Banks: BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, La Banque Postale
- Fintechs: Revolut, N26, Wise, Lydia
- Crypto exchanges: Binance, Kraken, Bitpanda
- eCommerce and online identity verification

How to Verify French ID for KYC

✅ Required:

Upload a clear front and back image of the ID
Ensure the following are visible:
- ID number
- Full name
- Date of birth and nationality
- MRZ zone (back)
- Photo and signature

📌 Some platforms may also require:

Live selfie or video verification
Proof of address (e.g., recent French utility bill)

Lost or Stolen French ID

To replace:

Report to the local police or gendarmerie
Apply at a town hall (mairie) or French consulate abroad
Bring:
- Lost/stolen report
- Passport or birth certificate
- Recent passport photo
Fee: Free (first issue or renewal), €25 (if lost/stolen)

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