Alright, so I needed a new ID card from Kyrgyzstan, and let me tell you, the whole process was a bit of a rollercoaster. I decided to go the online route, ’cause who wants to deal with all that paperwork in person, right?
First thing I did was try to find some info about these new eID things. Apparently, Kyrgyzstan started issuing these ICAO-compliant eIDs. Sounds fancy, doesn’t it? It’s basically a new generation document that certifies your identity as a citizen, so that’s what I was aiming for.
I started digging around to figure out how to actually apply. It wasn’t super clear at first, but I gathered I needed to fill out an application form and pay a fee. Sounded simple enough. They said the processing time would be around 3 to 5 working days after doing all that, which seemed reasonable.
One thing I stumbled upon is that you can supposedly make the ID pictures yourself. I thought, “Hey, that’s cool, I can save some time and money.” But I made sure to double-check the requirements, ’cause I didn’t want to mess that up.
Then I found some information about this “Tunduk” mobile application. It’s like a digital thing where you can access your ID card in digital format. I thought it could be handy to have it on my phone.
Some tricky bits
- Dual Citizenship: I did read somewhere that dual citizenship isn’t really a thing in Kyrgyzstan. Like, if they consider you a citizen there, you are their citizen. It got me a little worried since I have another citizenship, but I figured I’d cross that bridge when I got to it.
- Neighbors: I also noticed some stuff about neighboring countries like Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, but that wasn’t really relevant to what I was doing.
- International Driving Permit: I also saw something about an IDP, an International Driving Permit. It’s like a special pass that says you’re a good driver in other countries. I’m not sure if i need it.
Anyway, I finally managed to submit my application and pay the fee. Now it was just a waiting game. I kept checking my email like crazy, hoping to see that confirmation. It did take a few days, but eventually, I got an email saying my eID was ready! I was stoked! Then I tried accessing it through the Tunduk app, and there it was, my shiny new digital ID.
All in all, it wasn’t the smoothest process, but I got it done. I now have my Kyrgyzstan eID, and I didn’t even have to leave my house. Pretty neat, huh?
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