Russia has pushed back the launch of its universal eID card to January 2013, reports The Moscow Times.

Originally scheduled to roll out this month, the card is supposed to function as an electronic ID, driver’s license, proof of auto insurance, ATM card and immigration document, along with other possible features.

In December the government amended the law mandating the project to allow for the delay. The government estimates that the project will cost $5.2 to $5.6 billion to implement.

The project is being run by the Universal Electronic Cards company, a group set up by the Communications and Press Ministry. High-tech company Sitronics has been contracted to design and make the cards but is behind on the project.

Further delays are due to poor infrastructure and inter-agency cooperation, with just four of 83 regions having started work on the system.

The UEC plans to identify application sites for the universal ID and pilot them to government employees this year. In 2013, the card will be issued to those who apply for it, and in 2014, all citizens, except those who refuse in writing, will receive them.

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