How to Get a FIDE ID for Chess Tournaments

1. Do I need a FIDE ID to participate in chess tournaments?

Yes. Players need a valid FIDE ID to participate in FIDE-rated chess tournaments, including Go Checkmate FIDE-rated tournaments. If you do not have a FIDE ID yet, follow the instructions below to apply through your national chess federation.

2. What is a FIDE ID?

A FIDE ID is a unique identification number assigned to a chess player by FIDE, the International Chess Federation. It is linked to your chess profile and allows your results to be recorded in FIDE-rated tournaments internationally.

Having a FIDE ID does not automatically mean that you have a FIDE rating. Players without a rating are listed as unrated until they meet the applicable rating requirements.

Under the standard rating requirements, a player generally needs at least five games against rated opponents and a qualifying rating performance to obtain an initial rating. Check the current FIDE regulations for the latest requirements.

Once you receive your FIDE ID, you can search for your profile on the FIDE Ratings Website.

3. Where can I apply for a FIDE ID?

You should normally apply through the national chess federation responsible for your country of registration. Select your country below to find the relevant application page or federation website.

Singapore and Asia

  1. Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents: Apply through the Singapore Chess Federation – FIDE ID Application. Foreign nationals should normally apply through their respective national federations.

  2. India: Register through the All India Chess Federation registration portal. Follow the federation's instructions for obtaining your FIDE ID.

  3. Philippines: Apply through the National Chess Federation of the Philippines membership form.

  4. Malaysia: Follow the Malaysian Chess Federation FIDE ID application guidelines.

  5. Armenia: Apply through the Armenian Chess Federation FIDE registration form.

  6. Other Asian countries: Contact your national chess federation through the official FIDE website for application instructions.

Europe

  1. Austria: Visit the Austrian Chess Federation registration page and follow the relevant instructions.

  2. France: Contact a local chess club or the French Chess Federation to ask about obtaining a licence and FIDE ID.

  3. Germany: Follow the German Chess Federation FIDE identification instructions.

  4. Netherlands: Refer to the Dutch Chess Federation's FIDE rating guide for application instructions.

  5. Switzerland: Contact the Swiss Chess Federation for the current FIDE ID application procedure.

  6. United Kingdom: Players in England can refer to the English Chess Federation FIDE information page. Players registered with other UK federations should contact their respective federation.

North America

  1. United States: Apply through the US Chess FIDE ID application form.

  2. Canada: Visit the Chess Federation of Canada and contact the federation for instructions on obtaining a FIDE ID.

Oceania

  1. New Zealand: Refer to the New Zealand Chess Federation FAQ for the application procedure.

  2. Australia: Visit Australian Chess Federation and contact the federation for the current application instructions.

Other countries

If your country is not listed above, visit the FIDE website to identify your national chess federation and ask how to apply for a FIDE ID.

You may need to provide your full name, date of birth, gender as required by the application, nationality and supporting identification documents.

Important: Application procedures, eligibility rules, fees and processing times vary by country. Always confirm the current requirements with your federation before submitting an application.

4. How long does it take to obtain a FIDE ID?

Processing times vary depending on the country and the national federation. In Singapore, applications through the Singapore Chess Federation are generally processed within 1–3 days, although the actual time may vary.

If you are applying for a FIDE ID and would like to reserve your place in an upcoming Go Checkmate tournament, contact our team through WhatsApp with the participant's full name. We can advise you on whether a temporary reservation is possible.

5. What should I do after receiving my FIDE ID?

Follow these simple steps:

  1. Apply for your FIDE ID through the appropriate national chess federation.

  2. Once your ID is issued, check your details on the FIDE Ratings Website.

  3. Register for your chosen Go Checkmate tournament.

  4. Turn up, compete and enjoy your chess!

Apply for a FIDE ID

Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents can apply through the official Singapore Chess Federation application page.

Apply for a FIDE ID – Singapore Chess Federation

This application link is for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents only. Players of other nationalities should follow the instructions for their respective countries above.

For upcoming FIDE-rated tournaments, visit Go Checkmate.