Finnish Identity Card Guidelines

Having a Finnish national identity number is essential if you're living and working in Finland. It's a required document for anyone who is a citizen or resident of the country.

Keep reading to find out all the information you need about the Finnish ID Card, including the application process and where to obtain a suitable Finnish ID photo.

What is the Finnish ID Card (Henkilökortti)?
Types of Finnish Identity Cards
Features of the Finnish ID Card
Finnish ID Eligibility and Requirements
Finnish ID Application Process
Documents Required for the Finnish ID application
Finnish ID Photo Requirements
ID Photo App
Use of the Finnish ID Card for Travel Within the EU/Schengen Area
Finnish ID Card Validity and Renewal

What is the Finnish ID Card (Henkilökortti)?

The Finnish ID Card, known as Henkilökortti, is a personal Finland national identity card equipped with an electronic chip that verifies your digital identity in Finland. In addition to being an essential form of ID, it is necessary for accessing certain services and can be used as a travel document. This card allows you to travel to most European countries without needing a visa for specific durations. Additionally, the chip facilitates access to some online services.

On the document, you can find your ID card number, photo, name, and other identifying details. To prevent forgery, it contains security elements like holograms and watermarks.

A Finnish personal identity number follows the format DDMMYYCZZZQ, where DDMMYY is the birthdate (day, month, year), C is the century marker (+ for 1800-1899, - for 1900-1999, A for 2000-2099), ZZZ is an individual number (001–899 for males, 002–899 for females), and Q is a control character calculated from the preceding digits. Finnish identity number example: 010101-123N

Types of Finnish Identity Cards

The Finnish Identity Card, or Henkilökortti, comes in several variations to meet the needs of Finnish citizens and residents. Here’s a summary of the key types:

Standard Identity Card. It is used mainly for identification within Finland and also doubles as a travel document for journeys to EU and EFTA countries.
Open to both Finnish citizens and permanent residents.
Typically valid for a period of five years.
Electronic ID Card. Offers secure access to online services and supports digital signatures. Just like the standard card, it is available to Finnish citizens and residents with permanent status.
Temporary Identity Card. Provided in special situations where immediate identification is necessary, and a standard card cannot be issued right away. For people who meet the general requirements but need an ID on short notice.
Generally valid for a shorter time than the standard card, tailored for specific cases.
ID card for foreigners, Finland (Alien's Identity Card). A Finnish ID for foreigners, residing in Finland, who still need an official ID. It is for permanent residents or those holding a long-term visa in Finland.
Similar in function to the standard ID card, but it also indicates the holder's foreign status.
Identity Card for Minors. It is a Finland personal ID format for those under 18 years old. Application may require additional steps, such as parental consent

Features of the Finnish ID Card

All modern Finnish ID cards are machine-readable, streamlining verification at borders and checkpoints.

The Finnish ID Card is equipped with a microchip that holds personal information, including a biometric photo and, if it's used as a travel document, fingerprints. This chip allows secure electronic identification and access to online services.

Finnish ID Eligibility and Requirements

While ID cards are typically needed for adult citizens, all Finnish citizens, including children, can apply. Children can also use the card for travel purposes. Permanent residents from abroad living in Finland are eligible to apply too.

General application requirements:

Applicants aged 12 or older must provide fingerprints; those younger than 12 are exempt from this requirement.
When applying in person, applicants need to present a valid passport or other official identification.
A recent passport-style photograph is necessary. The picture must be clear, in focus, and taken within the last six months.

Finnish ID Application Process

How to get a Finnish ID number? You have the option to apply for the ID card either online or in person. Online applications are recommended by Finnish authorities as they tend to be more convenient and cost-effective.

Applying online
Here’s how to apply for the card online:

Have your photo taken and uploaded to the police photograph server:
You can visit a photo studio that will send your photo to the police server and provide you with a reference personal identification code. Note that the image cannot be downloaded for personal use. Alternatively, you can take your photo and upload it directly to the police database, ensuring it meets all necessary requirements.
Fill out the application form through the online service.
Schedule an appointment at a police station if needed. Bring along your current passport or ID and any other requested documents.
Collect your card at the designated pick-up location.

Applying in person
You can also apply by visiting your local police station without using the online platform. You'll need the documents listed below in the article.

Documents Required for the Finnish ID application

To apply for a Finnish ID Card, you'll need to provide several documents. Below is a detailed list of what's required:

Your current passport or an identity card issued by the police for identification purposes.
One recent photo, either in color or black-and-white, taken within the last 6 months. Color is preferred, but black-and-white is still acceptable at this time.
For men aged 23 to 30: a document related to military service, such as a military passport, civilian service certificate, or call-up certificate. If these aren't available, the issuing authority will confirm national defense obligations with the appropriate authorities. If military or civilian service hasn't been completed, any issued passport will be valid only up to the end of the year when you turn 28.
For minors: written consent from both parents or legal guardians, along with copies of their passport or ID card.
If you live abroad permanently, you might need to show proof of nationality with an additional certificate.

Finnish ID Photo Requirements

Your Finnish ID photo needs to meet specific detailed criteria; otherwise, it might be rejected. Here are the guidelines:

The printed photo size should be 36×47 mm.
For digital submissions, the photo should be 500×653 pixels.
The photo should be taken within the last 6 months.
It must be clear and in focus.
Your head should measure between 445 and 487 pixels in height (32–36 mm).
The space above your head needs to be between 56 pixels (4 mm) and 84 pixels (6 mm). There must be a minimum space of 96 pixels (7 mm) and a maximum of 124 pixels (9 mm) below your chin.
The background must be plain, light, and neutral — preferably light gray — with no shadows or distracting elements.
Your face should be clearly visible, directly facing the camera.
You should have a neutral facial expression, with your eyes open and mouth closed.
Tinted glasses and eye patches are allowed only with a medical certificate.
Head coverings are permitted for religious or cultural reasons but should not cast shadows or obscure the face.
Avoid makeup that could alter your appearance significantly.

ID Photo App

For a hassle-free and budget-friendly way to get a Finnish ID-compliant photo, consider using online tools like the 7ID App.

Using the mobile photo editor is straightforward: just upload your photo, choose the document type and country, and the app will automatically adjust your picture to meet the official requirements. This includes ensuring the correct size, format, background color, and appropriate face and eye alignment.

You'll receive both a digital version and a print template that fits standard paper sizes like 10x15 cm, A4, A5, or B5. Plus, our 24/7 technical support is ready to assist you with any issues.

Use of the Finnish ID Card for Travel Within the EU/Schengen Area

Your Finnish ID Card serves as a valid travel document for all countries within the Schengen Area, such as Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others. Make sure that your ID card remains valid for the entire duration of your travels.

Finnish ID Card Validity and Renewal

Usually, a Finnish ID card is valid for five years. Once expired, it cannot be used for identification or travel, so it's crucial to apply for a renewal either before or after it expires to get a new card.

Renewing your ID card through the police e-service is recommended for its convenience and possibly lower costs. Alternatively, you can renew by submitting your application at a local police station.