Costa Rica’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) has launched a redesigned national identity card featuring upgraded security measures and modern technology to better protect citizens against fraud. The updated card maintains its 10-year validity and standard international size, while removing personal details such as parents’ names and electoral address to enhance privacy.
A major innovation is the replacement of the old barcode with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) technology, enabling faster and more secure identity verification across systems. The card also includes a smaller secondary photo and advanced features such as raised text, ultraviolet-visible elements, and microtext to prevent forgery.
Current ID holders do not need to replace their valid cards, and new ones will continue to be issued free of charge within the annual replacement limit. Alongside the physical card, the TSE recently introduced the Costa Rican Digital Identity (IDC), a secure mobile version with equal legal status for official transactions.
The IDC uses biometric authentication and strong data protection measures, allowing citizens to identify themselves online and in person with ease. Applications can be completed through the TSE website, marking a step forward in Costa Rica’s digital modernization efforts.
Costa Rica Introduces New National ID Card with Advanced Security Upgrades
