The citizen card is today the central identification document in Portugal. Those who have it can, without realizing it, risk paying heavy fines for small flaws. Errors in its use, such as loss of the card or improper retention of others’ documents can lead to sanctions that reach 750 euros, depending on the infraction committed.
According to the authority for labor conditions and services (ACT), these rules aim to protect identity and ensure the safety of all citizens.
Loss or theft: Acting quickly is mandatory
According to the same source, if the citizen card is lost, stolen or stolen, the holder has a period of 10 days to request the cancellation of the document.
Those who do not comply with this obligation are subject to fines that may vary between 100 and 500 euros. The goal is to prevent misuse of the card, which contains sensitive personal data and allows legal identification.
Card found: Do not store at home
Finding a card that is not ours is not a rare situation. Explains the official website of the Institute of Registrations and notaries that anyone who finds a citizen card must immediately deliver it to an authority or competent service.
Not doing so within five days, the forecast fine is between 50 and 100 euros, reinforcing the responsibility of each citizen in preserving the documentation of others.
Risks of retention or reproduction of the card alien
Another point that deserves attention is the retention or playback of someone else’s card. Photocopy, scan or simply keep the citizen card of others without permission is considered unlawful, writes the public newspaper.
In this case, fines can reach 750 euros. The exceptions are only legal or in compliance with a court order.
Damaged documents: renew without penalty
When the document is damaged, the rules change. The holder must proceed to the replacement or renewal of the card, without application of fines, clarifies the Institute of Records.
It is recommended that the card always be in good condition, as it is required for multiple everyday situations, from bank transactions to official identifications to public and private entities.
European standards and reinforced security
The Citizen Card is also recognized in the European Union, having been updated in 2024 to comply with the standards of the European Regulation 2019/1157.
These adjustments, as it refers to, aim to reinforce safety and facilitate identification in all member countries. To avoid legal problems, the ideal is to keep the card safe, not allow third parties to use it without authorization and immediately report any incident.
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