request a Italian ID, the identity card, can be difficult when you are not aware of the details of the process. For foreigners living in Italy, obtaining the document is one of the most complex procedures you will have to do. Everything you need to know before applying is here.
Request a Italian identity card It is generally a hassle-free process for Italian citizens. But things can be a little more complex for foreigners, especially those from countries that are not part of the European Union.
This is made difficult by Italian bureaucracy, as well as the lack of official data in other languages, such as English, for example.
Italianismo has gathered seven important information for you to apply before you apply.
What is an Italian ID card and why will you need it?
The Italian General Registry, officially called Electronic Identity Card (CIE), is an identity document issued by the Italian Ministry of the Interior.
The document is used to confirm the holder's identity in administrative processes in public offices and in other situations that require identity verification.
You can also use the card to access various public administration services online — see a list of them here.
How to use your Italian identity card to access official services online
For Italian citizens, identity cards can be used for travel abroad instead of a passport. However, foreigners cannot do this — their version of the card will indicate that it is invalid for travel.
The card is just an identification document for foreigners (and an “electronic key” to access online administrative services).
Who can get an Italian ID card?
All foreigners registered as Italian residents in the Civil Registry (Registry office) and, if they are not from the EU, with a residence permit (residence permit), have the right to request a national identity card.
How can I order?
One of the first steps is to schedule an appointment with the competent municipality body. Many city councils offer residents the option to make a reservation online through a portal available at this link.
If your city hall does not offer these services, you will have to contact reception by phone or email. Be prepared to encounter employees who don't show much desire to help.
After confirming your reservation, you will be notified of the list of documents required to process your registration.
What I need?
Here's what you'll have to do:
- Take a photograph in paper or electronic format (on a pendrive USB) measuring 35mm wide and 45mm high. More information about the required photo format is available here.
- Present a valid identification document from your country of origin and, if not from the EU, a residence permit (residence permit) valid.
- Present your Italian tax code (fiscal Code), the Italian CPF.
- Check with the attendant that the personal data from the Civil Registry (Registry office) are correct.
- Indicate your preferred method for receiving your Italian ID (at home or picked up at the municipality).
- Provide personal data to receive information about the delivery of the identity card.
- Leave your fingerprints scanned.
- Sign the summary form. When you sign the summary form, you will receive the first four digits of your card's PIN number. The final digits will be on the envelope with the ID card.
How long will it take for the ID card to be delivered?
The application will be finalized and the Italian State Printing Office will send the document to the specified address within 6 working days. As already stated, both home delivery and personal collection are available.
If you chose to collect the document at the local city hall, a delegated person will be able to collect it on your behalf, as long as you provided your personal data during the request at the municipality.
With your ID card, you will receive the last four digits of your PIN number. The latter is necessary to access all online services that are related to the card.
How much will the Italian ID cost?
To obtain an Italian identity card, you will have to pay a fee 16,79 Euros, plus administrative fees, which may vary depending on the municipality.
How long will the Italian ID remain valid?
The validity period of the Italian identity card depends on the age of the owner as follows:
- Up to three years for children under three years of age.
- Five years for minors aged between three and 18;
- 10 years for people over 18.
For non-EU citizens, the card's expiration date is the same as that of your residence permit.
Visit Ministry of the Interior website for more information.
