Moldova Unveils New EU-Friendly ID Cards
The Republic of Moldova is introducing new national identity cards to replace the existing ones. This initiative aims to harmonise national legislation with the requirements of the EU acquis.
The new ID cards will feature enhanced data security features and facilitate access to various public services for their holders. Additionally, the cards will allow Moldovan citizens to travel freely within the European Union.
A press release from the Parliament of Moldova details that the draft law amending the legislation on identity documents was approved in a second reading by 79 deputies. The Public Services Agency developed the initiative.
The new identity cards, along with temporary ID cards and residence cards for foreign citizens, will be issued in both Romanian and English. Notably, these documents will exclude information regarding the holder's home address or temporary residence. This data will be accessible through the MConnect government platform, eliminating the need to change ID cards upon relocation.
Furthermore, the ID cards and residence cards will incorporate an electronic data storage medium. This storage will include both printed information and biometric data (facial image, fingerprints). Additionally, it will encompass qualified electronic signature means and public key certificates. These features will grant holders easier access to e-government and e-business services.
The legislative amendments will come into effect upon meeting the technical requirements for issuing the new ID cards and residence cards. The deadline for fulfilling these requirements is set no later than March 31, 2025. Following the official publication, the Government will have six months to submit proposals to Parliament for aligning existing legislation with the new amendments.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
