France ID

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.

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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.

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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)

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Validity

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

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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

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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)

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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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