Your Passport to Identity: A Vibrant 2024 Guide on Obtaining a National ID Card (Osobna Iskaznica)

What is an Osobna Iskaznica?

"Osobna izkaznica" is a term that translates to "identity card" in English. It is a crucial official document issued by the government or relevant authorities, playing a pivotal role in establishing and verifying an individual's identity. This document typically includes essential personal information such as the individual's full name, photograph, date of birth, address, resident status and other pertinent details.

In August 2021, Croatia introduced brand-new national electronic ID cards featuring cutting-edge technology. These high-tech cards boast biometric identifiers, capturing both facial features and fingerprints from both forefingers.

Equipped with a built-in electronic chip, the electronic ID card offers dual functionality with two types of electronic certificates. The first is the Identification certificate, serving as a digital proof of identity and enabling electronic services usage. Seamlessly, this electronic marvel allows you to navigate the e-Građani web application.

The second certificate is the Signature certificate, essentially the electronic incarnation of your signature. With your electronic ID card, you can effortlessly authenticate your documents online, ensuring a secure and convenient verification process.

These advanced electronic ID cards come with a standard validity of 5 years from the date of issue. However, for individuals surpassing the age of 70, the validity extends to an impressive 40 years. Embrace the future with these state-of-the-art electronic ID cards, redefining the way we confirm identity and engage with online services.

Who is eligible to apply for this ID Card?

Every Croatian citizen has the opportunity to obtain a Croatian ID card, regardless of their residence status or location. Yes, that means you can secure an ID card even if you're living abroad without a residence in Croatia. Explore the available visas and residence permits for Croatia if you're considering making a move.

For those Croatians residing outside the country but holding citizenship, you can apply for a national ID card using your foreign address. However, it's essential to note that this ID card won't serve as proof of residence in such cases.

Now, here's an interesting twist – individuals in Croatia aged 16 and above, with "prebivalište" in the country and court permission to tie the knot, are now required to have ID cards.

And here's a convenient option for parents – you have the authority to submit requests and handle the acquisition of ID cards for your children. So, whether you're a globetrotter or a parent looking out for your family, the process is more accessible than you might think!

Where can I get one?

Ensure to submit your ID card application at the administrative police station nearest to your permanent residence address (prebivalište) or your temporary address (boravište) in Croatia, as embassies and consulates lack the authority to issue ID cards.

Discover the interesting fact that having two addresses is a possibility in Croatia. Here's the breakdown: Prebivalište serves as your permanent address, receiving government communications, while boravište is a temporary or occasional address where you may reside for three or more months, encompassing scenarios like staying at a school, abroad, or during temporary work in another city. Both addresses must be registered with the government, although it's not uncommon to register only the prebivalište.

What steps do I need to follow when applying?

1: Gathering Required Documentation:

Embarking on the journey to secure your osobna begins with collecting essential documents. At the police station, you'll need to present proof of payment, a valid identification document, a recent color photograph, a signed agreement on certification services, and, if applicable, a birth certificate or proof of citizenship.

Pro Tip: If you've had a Croatian biometric passport in the last 5 years, your photo will be retrieved from the system, unless a significant change in appearance requires a new one.

2: Visit MUP (Administrative Police Station):

Take your documentation to the administrative police station closest to your residence. Locate the designated desk, commonly referred to as "šalter za osobne," where you can submit your application for an ID card. Parents or legal representatives must submit requests for children, ensuring a smooth process.

3: Receiving Your ID Card:

The timeline for obtaining your national ID card varies based on the chosen procedure:

• Standard Procedure: 30 days

• Accelerated Procedure: 10 days

• Urgent Procedure: 3 days

Remember to collect your ID card within the specified time frame to avoid cancellation, prompting the need for a new application.

4: Activating Your ID Card:

Upon picking up your ID card, you'll receive an initial password and PIN for activation. Using the e-OI web portal, equipped with a smart card reader, change the initial password, install the necessary software, and activate your card. This crucial step ensures your ID card is ready for electronic use.

5: Utilizing Your ID Card:

Congratulations! With your newly activated electronic ID card, you are ready to enjoy its benefits. Your ID card is now a powerful tool for electronic transactions and various official purposes.

Follow these steps diligently, and you'll seamlessly navigate the process of obtaining and activating your national ID card in Croatia, embracing the convenience it brings to your daily life.

How can I update and modify personal information?

If you need to renew your osobna or change your address, head over to your local administrative police station—no digital shortcuts here. To pick up your new osobna, just bring along the old one to the MUP. They'll swap it out and cancel the old one, keeping things simple and straightforward.

Do I need My ID Card for Travel?

Embark on seamless adventures throughout the European Union with just your Croatian national ID card – a passport-free ticket to explore! Thanks to the cutting-edge biometric chip, Croatian citizens enjoy hassle-free travel, while it's important to note that national IDs for non-citizens lack this convenient feature. Get ready to discover the beauty of Europe effortlessly!

What do I need to do in the event of my card getting lost?

If you misplace your ID card in Croatia or come across someone else's, here's a straightforward guide on what to do:

If you're in Croatia, head to the closest MUP administration office and report the case. If you're abroad, report it to the nearest Croatian embassy or consulate. You can find a list of these offices online.

Once you report a missing ID card, the MUP will invalidate it and suspend the digital certificates. Find it within 8 days, and you're good to go – certificates back in action. Fail to locate it within 8 days, and the certificates are revoked, end of story.

For those 70 and older with ID cards lacking digital certificates, you can continue using it if found within 15 days after reporting to the police. Just remember to inform the police about the discovery. Keep it simple and follow the steps, whether you're in Croatia or elsewhere.