Italy phases out paper ID cards for travel, urges electronic replacements

From 3 August 2026 Italy will no longer accept paper identity cards for trips abroad. The rule follows the Decree‑Law of 26 June 2026 (no. 108) and a Ministry of the Interior circular, requiring citizens to use a Carta d’Identità Elettronica (CIE) or a passport for international travel. Paper cards will remain valid for domestic use until they expire, but all such documents must be withdrawn by 31 January 2027.

Municipalities are accelerating issuance of electronic IDs. In Battipaglia officials warned residents to book CIE appointments promptly to avoid congestion at town‑hall offices. In Monfalcone, 3 951 electronic IDs were issued between 1 January and 10 July 2026, up sharply from previous years. The city expanded service windows, activated all three ministerial counters, and provided home‑visit signing for bedridden citizens, with special outreach to seniors over 60.

Both towns stress that early conversion will smooth the transition and prevent service disruptions as the paper‑card deadline approaches.