Belgian eID card 2025: application, itsme, photo, price
Official guide for the Belgian eID ✓ itsme digital identity ✓ €20-100
Last updated: | Next update: August 1, 2025
✓ Official sources: All links go directly to Belgian government services. itsme is used by 7+ million Belgians - get your digital identity today! Belgium leader in digital identity in Europe!
🔍 Popular searches: eid apply brussels • belgian identity card price • itsme activate • kids id apply • municipality appointment • express procedure eid • foreigner card belgium
Complete guide for the Belgian eID 2025. Electronic identity card, itsme digital identity, prices and application procedure. Especially popular with American expats in Brussels. Compare with other EU countries: Netherlands (€65), France (€25), Germany (€37), Luxembourg (€50).
🆕 New 2025: itsme reaches 7.5 million users! Belgium world leader in mobile digital identity ✨
💡 Insider tip: Avoid crowds in Brussels center. Try Jette, Evere or Watermael-Boitsfort for shorter waiting times.
"itsme changed my life in Belgium! Banking, government services, digital signatures - all from my phone. Amazing!" – Jennifer, American expat in Brussels
ℹ️ Belgian electronic identity card 2025
The eID is the official identity document issued by municipalities. It is used for identification in Belgium and travel within EU/Schengen. Now with full itsme integration for digital identity!
"Perfect service! Photo uploaded at 10:00, approved by municipality at 10:03. Incredible!"
– Sophie, EU official in Brussels
📋 Photo requirements (automatically checked by Rostrio):
• Neutral facial expression, looking straight ahead • White/light background • No glasses (if possible) • No headwear • Format 35x45mm
📱 itsme - Belgian digital identity 2025
🆕 7.5 million Belgians use itsme!
📱 How itsme works:
Download the itsme app on your smartphone
Register with your eID or via your bank
Activate your account with verification code
Set your itsme code (5 digits)
Done! Use itsme for 800+ services
🎯 What you can do?
Sign in to government services
Digitally sign documents
Banking with all major banks
My eBox digital mailbox
Tax-on-web tax filing
⚡ Advantages vs eID card reader
Easier - no card reader needed
Everywhere - works on any device
More secure - 2-factor authentication
Free - no extra costs
Universal - 800+ services
🌍 International comparison: Belgium world leader in mobile digital identity. itsme more advanced than DigiD (Netherlands), France Connect (France) or SPID (Italy).
Go to your municipality's website or call the municipality. In Brussels: brussels.be. Other municipalities have their own systems. Tip: Make an online appointment for shorter waiting times.
Where do I order the fastest passport photo?
Upload your photo at Rostrio.com for automatic verification according to Belgian requirements. Ready in 3 minutes, 100% approved.
What does an eID cost in total?
eID normal procedure: €20-30
Passport photo (Rostrio): ~€8
Transport to municipality: €5-30
itsme registration: Free
TOTAL: €33-68 (≈ $36-74)
Can Americans/foreigners get a Belgian eID?
No - the eID is only for Belgian citizens. Americans first get an A card (work permit), after 5 years a B card. Alternative: Foreigner cards give access to itsme and digital services.
What's the difference between itsme and eID card reader?
itsme: Mobile app for authentication, 7+ million users, works everywhere.
eID card reader: Hardware for computer, installation software needed.
Advice: Use itsme - much easier and accepted everywhere!
How long does it take to get an eID?
Normal procedure: 2-3 weeks
Express procedure: 2-3 working days
Super express Brussels: 4.5 hours!
itsme activation: Immediately after registration
Can I travel outside the EU with my eID?
No - the eID is only valid within EU/Schengen (30+ countries). For travel to USA, Asia, Africa, etc. you need a Belgian passport. Note: eID is not valid for UK after Brexit.
What do I do if I lose my eID abroad?
Contact the Belgian consulate immediately. Also call DOCSTOP: 00800 2123 2123 (free 24/7) to block your card. Tip: Take a photo of your eID before traveling.