Costa Rica to Introduce Digital ID Card in September 2025
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal announces the launch of a digital identity card aimed at enhancing security and convenience for citizens.
In September 2025, Costa Rica is set to implement a significant change in its identity verification system with the introduction of the 'Identidad Digital Costarricense' (Costa Rican Digital Identity).
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) has announced that citizens will be able to begin processing their digital IDs starting September 9, 2025.
Xenia Guerrero, the Director of Technological Strategy at the TSE, confirmed the timeline for the issuance of the new documents.
She indicated that the initiative aims to provide citizens with a more secure and efficient means of identification.
According to Guerrero, the development of the digital ID includes necessary regulatory frameworks and comprehensive outreach to financial institutions and businesses to ensure compatibility with various services.
The digital identity will function as an alternative means of identification for various transactions, including banking and municipal dealings.
The TSE noted that while the digital ID aims to simplify processes, it will gradually integrate into the public's use, rather than replacing the physical ID immediately.
Guerrero clarified that the issuance of physical IDs will continue, ensuring that citizens have the option to choose between the two.
The initial cost for obtaining the digital identity will be ₡2,600, and this service will not be mandatory.
However, it will require individuals to possess a current physical ID to apply.
The digital ID will also have an expiration date, necessitating periodic updates of the holder’s photo and personal information.
Once applications open, citizens can apply for their digital ID through the TSE’s website, complete the payment process, and subsequently download their identity information through an app.
In the coming weeks, the TSE plans to release additional details about the digital ID project and its implications for Costa Rican citizens.
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) has announced that citizens will be able to begin processing their digital IDs starting September 9, 2025.
Xenia Guerrero, the Director of Technological Strategy at the TSE, confirmed the timeline for the issuance of the new documents.
She indicated that the initiative aims to provide citizens with a more secure and efficient means of identification.
According to Guerrero, the development of the digital ID includes necessary regulatory frameworks and comprehensive outreach to financial institutions and businesses to ensure compatibility with various services.
The digital identity will function as an alternative means of identification for various transactions, including banking and municipal dealings.
The TSE noted that while the digital ID aims to simplify processes, it will gradually integrate into the public's use, rather than replacing the physical ID immediately.
Guerrero clarified that the issuance of physical IDs will continue, ensuring that citizens have the option to choose between the two.
The initial cost for obtaining the digital identity will be ₡2,600, and this service will not be mandatory.
However, it will require individuals to possess a current physical ID to apply.
The digital ID will also have an expiration date, necessitating periodic updates of the holder’s photo and personal information.
Once applications open, citizens can apply for their digital ID through the TSE’s website, complete the payment process, and subsequently download their identity information through an app.
In the coming weeks, the TSE plans to release additional details about the digital ID project and its implications for Costa Rican citizens.
