Residents of Urumqi will be required to register their fingerprint information when applying, renewing or replacing their second-generation ID cards. Urumqi has already begun fingerprint collection.

Residents applying for second-generation ID cards for the first time can directly register their fingerprint information, and those who already have the ID card can continue to use it and register their fingerprints when they replace or renew the card, said the population management team of the local public security bureau.

Residents can voluntarily get ID cards with fingerprint information at public security sub-bureaus or police stations. At the same time, the city has canceled the outside commissioned ID-card application; instead, the resident must apply in person.

The validity period of the second ID card varies with different age groups. The card is valid for five years for people under 16, ten years for people from 16 to 25, 20 years for people from 26 to 45 and indefinitely for people above 46. Residents are advised to visit their local public security sub-bureaus or police stations one month before their cards expire to avoid any hassles.

ID-card information has been leaked and stolen by criminals in recent years. The new card will have fingerprint information stored inside without changing its appearance, and this will effectively eliminate ID-card crimes including imposture and forgery, said a police officer at the population management team. It will better protect residents’ interests and social benefits.

Edited by Noelle Mateer