Hungary to retire book‑format ID cards on Aug 3, urging seniors to replace them

Personal identification cards issued in a book format before 1 January 2000 will cease to be valid on 3 August, the Hungarian Ministry of Interior announced. The change primarily affects elderly citizens, many of whom have used the same document for decades and may not have received a specific notice. The ministry urged family members to check the IDs of older relatives and to arrange a prompt replacement.

The new card‑format ID can be obtained at any government window, with or without an appointment. When exchanging the old document, the holder must present it and surrender it upon receipt of the new card. Permanent ID cards are issued free of charge to citizens who have reached their 70th birthday. To ease the transition, government offices have expanded capacity, offer walk‑in service, and provide mobile offices for those unable to travel due to health or mobility issues. Applications are submitted to the local government office responsible for the applicant’s residence, and a medical certificate may be attached if needed. Early replacement is encouraged to avoid difficulties in everyday affairs caused by lacking a valid ID.