Italy will no longer accept paper identity cards for international travel. The change will take effect on August 3, 2026, as mandated by European Regulation No. 1157/2019.
The new rule applies to everyone, even if the paper document is still valid. From that date onwards, only the Electronic Identity Card (CIE) will allow boarding to other European Union countries.
European regulations establish minimum security standards for identification documents. Paper versions do not meet the requirements for protecting personal and biometric data.
Municipalities recommend early exchange
Several Italian municipalities are already advising residents to check the validity of their paper documents. Anyone whose card expires after August 2026 should contact the civil registry office to obtain a new version.
The exchange can be made even before the deadline. Any Italian resident can request the issuance of a CIE before their old ID expires.
What is the CIE?
The Electronic Identity Card has a chip contactless with the cardholder's personal data, photo, and fingerprints. The chip follows international security standards to prevent fraud and copying.
In addition to serving as a travel document, the CIE provides access to online services from public bodies and companies in Europe.
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