ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

National identity cards in the European Union

National identity cards are like special cards that identify who you are and which country you come from. Just like how you have a library card that shows you can borrow books, an identity card shows that you are a citizen of a particular country.

In Europe, there are many different countries that make up the European Union. Each of these countries has its own identity card that is specific to them. However, some of these countries have agreed to follow some common rules and guidelines when it comes to their identity cards. These guidelines are called EU regulations.

The EU regulations state that all national identity cards from member states should contain certain pieces of information about you. This includes your name, date of birth, a photograph of yourself, and details such as your address or your nationality. Some countries may also choose to include other information such as your height, eye color or blood type.

In addition to this, the EU regulations also require that all identity cards should include special security features to prevent fraud or misuse. These can include things like holograms, chip technology or special watermarks.

The main purpose of national identity cards is to help people prove who they are when they need to do things like open a bank account, apply for a job or travel internationally. By having a standard set of guidelines that all member states follow, it makes it easier for people to move and do things throughout the EU without having to worry about their identity or citizenship status.

However, not all member states of the EU have national ID cards or choose to follow these regulations. Some countries instead use passports or other forms of identification. It is also important to note that some people may choose not to carry an ID card at all, as it is not mandatory in all EU countries.

Overall, national identity cards in the European Union are important for helping people prove who they are and where they come from. By following common guidelines, it makes it easier for people to move throughout the EU and live, work or study in different countries, while still being able to prove their identity and nationality.