Italy to replace paper identity card with electronic CIE starting August 3, 2026

From August 3, 2026, the traditional paper identity card will no longer be valid, even if it has not reached its expiry. Citizens will be required to switch to the Nuova Carta d’Identità Elettronica (CIE) for security, travel, and access to digital services. The transition marks a shift from paper to electronic identity documentation.

The change aligns with European regulatory standards, specifically Regulation 1157/2019, reinforcing the move toward a standardized electronic ID system across the bloc.