So, I had to get a French ID card the other day. It wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be, but there were definitely a few hoops to jump through. I figured I’d share my experience in case any of you are thinking about doing the same thing.
First things first, I learned that getting an ID card is all about proving who you are. Makes sense, right? The French government is keen on this, especially the Ministry of the Interior. I found out they’ve been revamping the whole ID card system in recent years, making it more modern.
The first thing I did was to check out the process online. You can actually do a “pre-application” on this website called ANTS. I thought, “Hey, that might save me some time,” so I gave it a shot. It’s optional, but it seemed like a good idea. Turns out, if you don’t do the pre-application, you just need to fill out a form at the place where you get your ID.
Then came the big question: where do I actually go to get this thing? Turns out, you gotta make an appointment at the French Consulate General. I went to their website and booked a slot. Easy peasy. They have this whole online booking system, which is pretty convenient.
Next up, I had to gather all my documents. Now, this depends on your situation, like if you’re a minor, if it’s your first time, or if you’re just renewing. For me, it was my first time, so I needed a permanent residence certificate and proof of address. I dug those up, hoping they were the right ones.
Appointment day arrived, and I headed to the Consulate. I brought all my documents, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. The agent there was pretty helpful, walking me through the process. We went through my paperwork, and I filled out some forms – standard stuff.
After submitting everything, I was told it would take about 14 working days to get my Smart ID card, assuming everything was in order. That sounded pretty reasonable to me. There was also some talk about fees. Apparently, a standard application is 18 euros and takes up to 21 days. If you’re in a hurry, there’s a fast track option for 35 euros, which gets it done in 1-2 working days. I went with the standard one since I wasn’t in a rush.
One thing I learned is that while the first ID card and renewals are free, if you lose it or it gets stolen, you gotta pay a 25 euro tax stamp to get a new one. Except in French Guiana, for some reason.
So, that’s my ID card story. All in all, it was a straightforward process. Just make sure you have your documents in order, book an appointment, and you’re pretty much set.
- Pre-application online: Check out the ANTS website, it might save time.
- Book an appointment: Do it online through the French Consulate General’s website.
- Gather your documents: Permanent residence certificate and proof of address for first-timers.
- Appointment day: Head to the Consulate, submit your documents, and fill out forms.
- Wait: About 14 working days for a Smart ID card with a standard application.
- Fees: 18 euros for standard, 35 for fast track. First-time and renewals are free, but lost or stolen cards cost 25 euros to replace.
Hope this helps anyone looking to get a French ID card. It’s not as daunting as it seems!
Click to consult