Starting August 3, 2026, Italy’s paper identity cards will no longer be valid—regardless of the expiration date printed on them. They will not be accepted for identification or for travel abroad. The change follows EU Regulation 2019/1157, which sets stricter security standards for identity documents across member states. Paper IDs fail to meet these requirements and are considered too easy to forge.

Citizens who still hold the old format must replace it with the electronic identity card (CIE). Applications can be made at the local registry office in one’s municipality of residence or domicile, or at consulates for Italians living abroad. The process is straightforward: applicants need a recent passport photo, their old ID (or another valid document), and a tax code. The electronic card is treated as a first issuance, so only the standard fee applies.

To avoid long waiting times, the Interior Ministry recommends booking appointments online. Many municipalities are also organizing special opening hours and “open days” to handle increased demand. Authorities advise against waiting until the last minute, as applications are expected to surge closer to the deadline.