Finnish ID card (henkilökortti)

Detailed explanation

The Finnish ID card is a credit card-sized document containing your photograph, personal details, and biometric data stored on an embedded chip. Since 2017, all new cards include fingerprint data alongside the digital photograph. The card displays your name, date of birth, nationality, personal identity code (HETU), and validity period in both Finnish and Swedish, reflecting Finland's bilingual status.

For Finnish citizens, the ID card serves as a full travel document within the EU/EEA and several other countries that accept it as a passport alternative. For non-citizens legally residing in Finland, a limited version called "henkilökortti ulkomaalaiselle" (ID card for foreigners) is available, though it does not function as a travel document and clearly states the holder's nationality and residence status.

The card incorporates advanced security features including holographic elements, laser-engraved text, and tamper-proof materials. The embedded chip enables the card to be used for electronic identification and strong authentication purposes when accessing Finnish digital services, making it a practical alternative to bank-based authentication methods.

How it affects expats

• •EU citizens: Can apply for a full ID card after registering right of residence in Finland

• •Non-EU residents: Eligible for a foreigner's ID card, useful for domestic identification purposes

• •Travel convenience: EU citizens can travel within Schengen without carrying a passport

• •Digital services: Provides strong authentication for Suomi.fi and other government portals

• •Daily identification: Widely accepted for age verification and identity confirmation in Finland

How to apply

• Book an appointment at any police station service point

• Gather required documents: valid passport, residence permit (for non-EU), passport photo, and HETU

• Visit in person for biometric data collection (photo and fingerprints)

• Pay the fee: approximately 54 EUR for adults, reduced rate for minors

• Wait for processing: typically 2-3 weeks, though express service is available for an additional fee

• Collect your card from the police station or have it mailed to your address

Key features

• •Valid for 5 years (adults) or until age 21 (minors)

• •Contains biometric data (photo and fingerprints)

• •Can be used for travel within EU/EEA countries (citizens only)

• •Enables electronic authentication

Related terms

• •Personal Identity Code (Henkilötunnus) — The Finnish personal identity code used by authorities and many services

• •DVV — Digital and Population Data Services Agency

• •Strong authentication (Bank IDs) — A common way to log in to Finnish services using online banking credentials or a mobile ID

• •Suomi.fi — A portal for Finnish public e-services and official messages