Starting August 3, 2026, paper ID cards in Italy will become invalid: what you need to know

Italy is switching to electronic ID cards and phasing out paper documents. Find out when paper IDs will become invalid, how to apply for a CIE, and what will change for citizens and residents

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Italy is completing its transition to electronic documents: as of August 3, 2026, paper ID cards will no longer be valid. This involves a mandatory transition to the Carta di Identità Elettronica (CIE)—a modern digital document that will become the only valid form of identification.

When will paper documents become invalid?

As of August 3, 2026, all paper ID cards will become invalid regardless of the date indicated on the document. They will no longer be valid for travel abroad, but they will remain valid for identification within the country.

This rule is established by EU Regulation 2019/1157, which provides for higher document security standards in EU countries. At the end of 2025, the Italian Ministry of the Interior further confirmed this regulation in Circular No. 76/2025.

The transition to the CIE is part of a pan-European policy of digitization and enhanced security. The main reasons are:

● paper documents are easily damaged and forged;

● the need to standardize documents within the EU;

● simplifying identity verification at the border;

● reducing the risk of fraud.

The electronic card is the size of a bank card and equipped with a microchip that stores the holder’s personal and biometric data. Laser-printed photography is used for additional security.

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What is the CIE and what capabilities does it offer?

The Carta di Identità Elettronica is not just an identification document. It also serves as a means of accessing government online services.

In particular, the CIE can be used to log in to the CieID system—one of the key tools for accessing electronic services alongside SPID. Upon receiving the card, citizens are provided with PIN and PUK codes to set up access.

Important: A valid ID is required to apply for most social services and benefits in Italy, so you shouldn’t delay replacing your document.

Who needs to apply for a CIE?

The new rules apply to both Italian citizens and foreigners legally residing in the country. If you have a paper version of the document, plan to travel outside Italy, and do not have a valid passport that could replace the carta d’identità for travel—you need to update your carta d’identità.

If you still have a paper ID, you must replace it with an electronic one by the established deadline.

In such situations, it is also important to properly formalize your residency status in the country. If you have questions regarding documents or legalization, you should consult immigration lawyers—for example, through Visit Ukraine, where you can receive advice on residency and documents in EU countries.

Validity of the electronic ID

The validity period of the CIE depends on age:

● up to 3 years old — 3 years;

● from 3 to 18 years old — 5 years;

● for adults — up to 10 years.

We remind you! Italy is a country with a rich history and culture that has long attracted foreigners.

Emigrating to Italy from Ukraine in 2026 is a chance for new professional and personal opportunities in the heart of the European Union. Read about ways to obtain a visa to Italy, opportunities for long-term residence, and obtaining a work permit.

Photo: wirestock / Freepik

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