Electronic residence card for a non-Belgian child

Since 15 January 2024, the electronic residency card for a non-Belgian child replaces the previous paper identity document for a non-Belgian child. However, the paper identity documents will remain valid until they expire.

An electronic card is only issued to non-Belgian children under the age of twelve.

If you want to apply for the card, you must meet some conditions:

• You must have parental authority over the child.
• You must apply for the card together with the child.

The card is valid for a maximum of three years. If the child has a temporary right of residence, the card may have a shorter period of validity. In any case, the period of validity of the card must not exceed the period of validity of the legal representative’s residence permit.

The card expires

• upon expiry of the period of validity,
• in the event of a change of residence or address,
• or in the event of a change of surname, first name(s) or nationality.

The passport photo you bring must be recent (maximum six months old) and comply with the standards imposed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). It is important that the child’s face is clearly visible. The child must look straight into the lens with a neutral facial expression (mouth closed, no smile).

The parent(s) or the person(s) exercising parental authority apply for the card with the municipality.

The child must also be present when the card is requested for purposes of comparison with the photograph.

You will receive a letter informing you that the new electronic card is ready, together with the new codes. Take the letter and the codes with you when you collect the card. If the child is 6 years or older, the child must also be present when the card is collected.

• A recent colour passport photo (maximum six months old) of your child,
• which meets the requirements for passport photos; the emergency contact’s details;
• the divorced or separated parents must provide a copy of the custody order. If the person presenting themselves does not have custody, they must be in possession of a signed authorisation from the person who does.

Royal Decree of 10 December 1996 on the different identity documents for children under the age of twelve (Belgian Official Gazette of 20 December 1996)