Is it necessary to take a national identity card when travelling abroad?
It goes without saying one requires international passport when travelling abroad, but what are the reasons for taking a national ID? In what situations may I need it?
Is that enough to take just printed copies of internal ID?
Best Answer
Situations when your national ID is useful abroad:
- it's a valid travel document for any EU and Schengen Zone country citizen in all of EU and all of Schengen Zone
- it's a valid identification when dealing with your consulate or embassy (think for example getting a replacement passport)
- while in some countries it might not be valid for official purposes, it's still considered a "picture ID". So should be good enough for example as proof that you're over 18. And if you're going to a bar you might not want to take your passport with you to avoid the risk of it getting lost or stolen. Besides, given the typical format of national IDs, they fit nicely in the wallet, which can't be said of passports.
Of course in none of these cases it's a necessity, so you don't need to have with you.
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Do you need ID abroad?
You'll need your passport for international travel, and you can use your passport to verify your identity at the TSA checkpoint instead of a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license.What identity proof is needed to travel in another country?
Passport, Travel Visa and National ID Card Proper identification is the foundation of international travel. As a result, you should ensure to always have an official identification document with you. You can even consider having multiple documents such as your passport, national ID card or driver's licence.What are the requirements for traveling abroad?
- Passport.
- Valid Permanent Visa or Permanent Resident Card.
- Departure card.
- Required travel and health documents as specified by the destination.
Can I use an ID to travel in Europe?
Travel documents within EuropeYou will need an ID card or passport if you are travelling within the European Union. And not just when you cross a border (for example, via an airport). You must also be able to show an ID card or passport if you are staying in a European country. Some countries also require a visa.Can EU citizens travel to the UK with a national ID card?
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Answer 2
I always take both my national identity card and my residence permit with me. They are a perfect replacement, when a hotel or any other non-official entity requires a proof of identity. Usually I start by giving my resident permit, then my national identity card and if that wouldn't work, I would consider giving my passport.
I would say that you need your passport to cross borders, but for any other use you could revert to your national identity card.
Answer 3
No it's not necessary, because not all countries issue national identify cards therefore not every traveller is able to obtain one.
Here in Australia a national ID card called the "Australia Card" was proposed in the mid 1980s. Most of us found the very idea Orwellian and abhorrent. The idea was so overwhelmingly unpopular it was totally withdrawn within about two years.
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