Hungary to retire old book‑format ID cards by August 2026

Hungary’s Ministry of Interior announced that personal identification cards issued in book form before 1 January 2000 will lose validity on 3 August 2026. The change primarily affects elderly citizens who have used the same document for many years and may not have received direct notice.

Families are urged to verify the status of their older relatives’ IDs and arrange replacement. New card‑format IDs can be obtained at any government service window, with appointments optional. For citizens aged 70 and above, issuance is free and priority service is offered. Mobile government‑office services are also available for those with health or mobility limitations, allowing document exchange at care facilities or local offices.

The ministry advises prompt action to prevent difficulties in everyday affairs that could arise from lacking a valid ID.