Released: December 15, 2006

Help Desk FAQ

What are the requirements for obtaining a Consular ID card?

Each consulate establishes different requirements. In general, you may be asked to provide the following:

• Original and copies of passport
• Original and copies of national ID
• Original and copy of birth certificate
• Up to 4 passport-size photos
• Proof of address (utility bill, apartment lease, etc)

More specific requirements include being at least 18 years old (Guatemala), providing a document showing blood type (Colombia) or proof of legal residence (Pakistan).

Although some consular ID cards have no cost to consumers, most charge a fee that ranges from $2 to $30. In most cases, consular ID cards have an expiration date and are valid from one to five years.