Since September 2004, all Finnish ID cards, manufactured by Setec and issued by the Finnish Police Authorities have been embedded with a microchip which stores the on-board certificates used for electronic identification. This new card, available from June 2005, is based on a Java Card™ operating system and a more powerful 64K Java-based smart card developed by Setec. The card is compliant with the relevant international standards. The use of Java makes it possible to upload new applications on the chip in the future. Such a card can offer a versatile range of benefits to its users. For example, an EID card with a “city card” application can offer library services, travelling services, swimming hall services and subsidised meals. The EID card is voluntary in Finland, is issued by the Finnish police authorities and is valid for five years. As with the previous version, this new EID card can also be used as an official travel document instead of passport in several European countries, and it can also be combined with the Sickness Insurance Card. tapio.aaltonen@vrk.intermin.fi www.setec.com