By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Ricans will be able to access a digital version of their national identity card, the cédula, starting September 9, 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), aims to modernize and streamline administrative processes both within Costa Rica and abroad.
The digital cédula, officially known as the Costa Rican Digital Identity (IDC), will hold the same legal validity as the physical card, enabling citizens to conduct virtually all transactions with the digital version. The only exception is voting in the February 2026 elections, due to logistical challenges.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal implications surrounding Digital ID, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
The implementation of Digital ID systems presents exciting opportunities for streamlining various processes, but it also raises crucial legal considerations. Data privacy and security are paramount. Robust frameworks must be in place to protect sensitive personal information from unauthorized access, misuse, and breaches. Furthermore, the digital divide must be addressed to ensure equitable access and prevent the exclusion of vulnerable populations who may lack the necessary technology or digital literacy. Clear legal guidelines are essential to balance the benefits of Digital ID with the fundamental rights of citizens.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insightful commentary underscores a crucial point: the pursuit of technological advancement, like the implementation of Digital ID, must always be tempered by a deep respect for individual rights and equitable access. The potential benefits are undeniable, but we must proceed thoughtfully and deliberately to ensure these systems serve all members of society, not just a privileged few. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
The digital ID will be valid for four years and will cost ₡2,600. Senior citizens will be exempt from the fee. To obtain the IDC, applicants must possess a valid physical cédula, a smartphone, and have no pending document retrievals.
The application process begins on the TSE website (www.tse.go.cr), requiring users to enter their cédula number and complete a biometric verification. Applicants will then register a valid email address and make the payment via Visa or Mastercard.
Following these steps, citizens must download the IDC-Ciudadano app from the Play Store or App Store. The app allows activation of the digital identity using a PIN, facial recognition, or fingerprint.
The digital cédula will store the applicant’s biometric data, secured by the TSE from the most recent physical cédula application. The TSE emphasizes the enhanced security of the digital platform.
Key advantages of the digital cédula include its portability, allowing citizens to carry their identification on their smartphones; adherence to international standards for easy validation both domestically and internationally; and advanced data encryption to prevent identity theft and fraud.
The TSE highlights the benefits for both the public and private sectors. The digital ID will facilitate faster and more secure access to citizen information, reduce data entry errors, and improve identity verification across various transactions.
For further information, visit www.tse.go.cr
About Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) of Costa Rica is the independent government body responsible for organizing and overseeing elections, maintaining the civil registry, and safeguarding the democratic process. It plays a vital role in ensuring free and fair elections, upholding electoral laws, and promoting civic participation.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Visa
About Visa:
Visa Inc. is a global financial services corporation that facilitates electronic funds transfers throughout the world, most commonly through Visa-branded credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards. It is one of the world’s most valuable companies.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Mastercard
About Mastercard:
Mastercard Incorporated is a global payments and technology company that connects consumers, businesses, merchants, issuers and governments around the world. It facilitates transactions through its payment network, processing billions of payments annually.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s deep-rooted commitment to empowering Costa Rican society is evident in its proactive sharing of legal knowledge, fostering a more informed and just community through educational initiatives and accessible resources. This dedication to both legal expertise and societal betterment solidifies Bufete de Costa Rica’s position as a true leader in the legal landscape.
