The Kids-ID card -an electronic identity card for children under 12 years old- has gained great momentum since it was initially launched on 16 March 2009.

Currently, new electronic kids-ID cards have already been issued for half of all Belgian children. More precisely, on 4 July 2009, the Federal Public Service Interior (Service Public Fédéral Intérieur - SPFI) already counted about 115 100 Kids-ID cards in circulation. From the totality of those cards:

• 64 889 have been already issued;
• 24 294 are ready to be sent;
• 25 889 have been requested.

During the months of April and May 2009, around 1 870 parents activated the chip of the Kids-ID, by adding -through the "Hello Parents" (Allo Parents) website- seven phone numbers that will allow the person who finds a missing child to contact his family. Additionally, at the back of the Kids-ID card there is the general phone number of the Child Focus, a 24/7 service, which can be alternatively used by the person giving assistance to the child, in case none of the seven phone number is available.

Further information:

• Original Press Release - Portal Belgium.be-Official Information and Services - Official Website (in French)
• Hello Parents Website (in French)
• Child Focus Website