# EU digital ID transition and rollout > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-countries-accelerate-transition-to-electronic-identity-cards-in-2026 > Updated: 2026-09-06T12:43:33.000Z. Sources: 400. Developments: 99. The EU’s revised eIDAS framework continues to drive national shifts from paper to electronic identity documents. In Italy, the transition from paper to Electronic Identity Cards (CIE) has accelerated. Following the August 3, 2026, loss of international travel validity for paper cards, Italian Prefectures have begun distributing six-month provisional documents for urgent travel. While paper cards remain valid for domestic services until 31 January 2027, they are no longer valid for SPID access. New regulations for Italian CIEs issued after July 30, 2026, grant citizens aged 70 and older unlimited physical validity to simplify administrative processes. However, the digital authentication certificate for online services will still expire every 10 years, necessitating a new card for continued digital identity use. Amidst these transitions, Italian authorities have reported a growing trend of individuals intentionally tampering with electronic IDs. In Baiano, a man was referred to judicial authorities for material forgery after surgically removing the microchip from his CIE to evade digital tracking and bypass automated verification at airports, banks, and public offices. In Switzerland, revisions to identity document ordinances will introduce biometric identity cards on November 1, 2026. These cards will feature a microchip containing a facial image and two fingerprints. Swiss citizens can request these starting November 2, 2026. The update also replaces the term “provisional passport” with “emergency passport”. In Greece, the implementation of EU regulation 2019/1157 on 3 August 2026 ended the use of old blue police identity cards for international travel. While valid for domestic transactions, citizens must manually update details with private providers to avoid service disruptions. Other regional developments include Hungary’s transition to eSzemélyi. ## Claims - Decree‑Law n. 19 of 2026, converted by Law 50 of 2026, provides unlimited validity for electronic identity cards for persons aged 70 or older. (disputed by 15 sources) - From 30 July 2026 new electronic identity cards issued to Italian citizens aged 70 or older have unlimited validity and display the word “ILLIMITATA”. (disputed by 7 sources) - Old identity cards will remain valid for domestic transactions and certain electronic remote‑identification procedures until 25 September 2027. (disputed by 4 sources) - Old paper‑format personal identity cards will cease to be valid on 3 August 2026. (disputed by 3 sources) - The new electronic ID for 18‑year‑olds is valid for six years; for 70‑year‑olds it is valid for ten years. (disputed) - From 3 August 2026 the old blue Greek police identity cards will no longer be accepted as travel documents for foreign travel, including the Schengen area. (corroborated by 29 sources) - The new Greek identity cards contain a machine‑readable zone (MRZ) and meet EU security standards. (corroborated by 29 sources) - Old blue IDs remain valid for domestic transactions and identification until September 2027. (corroborated by 29 sources) - Citizens may apply for the new ID until 25 September 2027. (corroborated by 29 sources) - The fee for a new ID is €10 plus a €0.50 police stamp; large families pay €5 plus the stamp. (corroborated by 29 sources) - New IDs are issued after an online police appointment, a photo taken on‑site or submitted electronically, and are delivered in about seven days. (corroborated by 29 sources) - Citizens who do not obtain a new ID by the deadline must travel with a passport; old IDs cannot be used for passport applications after 3 August 2026. (corroborated by 29 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-09-06: Italian municipalities expand electronic identity card services Municipalities in Rome and Viterbo are opening special service hours and weekend sessions to process electronic identity card (CIE) applications and reduce administrative backlogs. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-municipalities-expand-electronic-identity-card-services ### 2026-09-03: Italy reports rising trend of microchip removal from electronic IDs Italian authorities have reported a rising trend of individuals deliberately removing microchips from electronic identity cards to evade digital identification and automated security checks. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-reports-rising-trend-of-microchip-removal-from-electronic-ids ### 2026-08-31: Italy and Switzerland implement new identity document regulations Italy is introducing unlimited validity for electronic identity cards for citizens over 70, while Switzerland will launch new biometric identity cards in November 2026 to enhance security. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-and-switzerland-implement-new-identity-document-regulations ### 2026-08-26: Rome to hold electronic identity card open days on August 29-30 Rome is hosting extraordinary open days on August 29-30, 2026, for electronic identity card (CIE) services. Mandatory appointments are required via the Ministry of the Interior's portal. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rome-to-hold-electronic-identity-card-open-days-on-august-29-30 ### 2026-08-24: Italy phases out paper identity cards for SPID and travel Italy is phasing out paper identity cards. Starting August 3, they will no longer support SPID digital access, and they are no longer valid for international travel. Users must transition to electronic cards. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-phases-out-paper-identity-cards-for-spid-and-travel ### 2026-08-17: Italy: Municipalities adapt to electronic identity card transition Italian municipalities are adapting to the transition to electronic identity cards (CIE), with Sesto Fiorentino reserving specific days for issuance and Raffadali reporting zero waiting lists. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-municipalities-adapt-to-electronic-identity-card-transition ### 2026-08-16: Greece: Essential updates required after new ID card issuance Greek citizens must update their new identity card details with banks, utilities, and insurers to ensure seamless transactions and comply with upcoming EU travel regulations. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-essential-updates-required-after-new-id-card-issuance ### 2026-08-13: Italy begins distribution of provisional identity documents Italian authorities have begun distributing provisional identity documents to municipalities to assist citizens needing urgent travel documents while transitioning from paper to electronic identity cards. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-begins-distribution-of-provisional-identity-documents ### 2026-08-12: Italy transitions digital identity from SPID to Electronic Identity Card Italy is transitioning toward the Electronic Identity Card (CIE) as its primary digital identity, with SPID expected to gradually lose functionality between 2026 and 2027. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-transitions-digital-identity-from-spid-to-electronic-identity-card ### 2026-08-11: Hungary extends use of old identity cards for specific services Old book-format identity cards in Hungary can still be used for specific state services, such as pensions and healthcare, until the end of the year following a parliamentary decision. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-allows-limited-use-of-old-identity-cards-until-year-end ### 2026-08-07: Greek citizens must inform banks, insurers and employers after receiving new ID cards New Greek police ID cards require holders to update banks, insurers, employers and other services, using eGov‑KYC or direct contact, to avoid transaction issues. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greek-citizens-must-inform-banks-insurers-and-employers-after-receiving-new-id-cards ### 2026-08-06: Italy grants unlimited electronic ID for seniors and plans digital driver licences Italy gives seniors unlimited‑validity electronic ID cards and is consulting on a reform that could replace physical driver licences with digital records. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-grants-unlimited-electronic-id-for-seniors-and-plans-digital-driver-licences ### 2026-08-05: Greece mandates ID card updates for banks, employers and utilities EU rule 2019/1157 makes Greece’s old blue IDs invalid for travel from Aug 2026; citizens must update banks, employers, insurers, utilities and payment apps with their new ID, while old IDs stay valid for remote 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-mandates-id-card-updates-for-banks-employers-and-utilities ### 2026-08-04: Germany advances EU Digital Identity Wallet despite EU rollout delays Germany is moving forward with its EU Digital Identity Wallet, aiming for a Jan 2027 launch with €79 million funding, while experts flag technical, security and legislative gaps and note most EU states lag. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germany-advances-eu-digital-identity-wallet-despite-eu-rollout-delays ### 2026-08-04: Italy ends overseas use of paper ID cards from August 2026 Italy will stop accepting paper ID cards for overseas travel on 3 Aug 2026; they remain valid domestically until Jan 2027, requiring electronic IDs or passports for trips abroad. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-ends-overseas-use-of-paper-id-cards-from-august-2026 ### 2026-08-04: Romania to Phase Out 1997 Identity Cards by August 2031 Romania will stop accepting 1997‑model identity cards after 3 Aug 2031, replacing them with free electronic (CEI) and simple (CIS) cards that include a chip for digital services and health‑card use. 24 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-launches-free-chipembedded-electronic-identity-cards ### 2026-08-02: Hungary to retire old book‑format ID cards, 135,000 seniors must replace them Hungary will invalidate book‑format ID cards on 3 Aug 2026; about 135 000 seniors must switch to free electronic IDs, with mobile services for those unable to visit offices. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-to-retire-old-bookformat-id-cards-135000-seniors-must-replace-them ### 2026-08-02: Italy bans paper ID cards for international travel from Aug 3 2026 Italy stops using paper ID cards for travel abroad on 3 Aug 2026; CIE or passport required, with paper cards kept for domestic services until 31 Jan 2027. 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italys-paper-id-no-longer-valid-for-travel-from-aug-3-2026 ### 2026-08-02: EU advances digital driver licences in Slovakia as Czech Republic retires old ID cards EU rules require Slovakia to roll out digital driver licences by 2029, while the Czech Republic ends use of old paper ID cards on 3 August, offering free replacements for seniors. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-advances-digital-driver-licences-in-slovakia-as-czech-republic-retires-old-id-cards ### 2026-08-01: Greece bans old police ID cards for travel from Aug 3, 2026 From 3 Aug 2026 Greece stops accepting old blue police IDs for travel; new IDs with MRZ must be used or a passport, with a €10 fee and a deadline of 25 Sept 2027. 45 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-to-end-use-of-old-police-ids-for-international-travel-on-aug-3-2026 ### 2026-07-31: Croatia orders 13,000 citizens to replace permanent ID cards by Aug 3 Over 13,000 Croatians must replace permanent‑validity ID cards by 3 Aug 2026 under EU Regulation 2025/1208, with fees from €9.29 to €66.36 and fines up to €590 for non‑compliance. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/croatia-orders-13000-citizens-to-replace-permanent-id-cards-by-aug-3 ### 2026-07-29: Hungary Announces 2026 Media Shift, New Trains, ID Card Deadline, Family Support Hungary will turn Magyar Nemzet into a weekly, introduce 11 new InterCity trains, retire booklet ID cards on 3 August 2026, and pay double family allowances plus the first half of a school‑start grant in August 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-to-invalidate-old-paper-id-cards-on-aug-3-2026 ### 2026-07-29: Italy grants unlimited electronic ID cards to citizens over 70 Italy will issue unlimited‑validity electronic ID cards to citizens 70+ from 30 July 2026; paper IDs lose travel use on 3 August 2026 but stay valid domestically until 31 January 2027. 29 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-grants-unlimited-validity-to-id-cards-for-citizens-over-70 ### 2026-07-27: Greece to scrap old blue ID cards for travel on Aug 3 2026 Greece will cease accepting old blue ID cards for travel from 3 Aug 2026; new cards meet EU security standards, while old cards stay valid for domestic use until Sept 2027. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-to-scrap-old-blue-id-cards-for-travel-on-aug-3-2026 ### 2026-07-27: EU mandates retirement of paper personal ID cards on Aug 3 2026 EU rules end paper personal IDs on 3 Aug 2026; citizens must get electronic IDs, with free permanent cards for those 70+, and mobile help for the infirm. Romania limits old‑type issuance to special cases. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-mandates-retirement-of-paper-personal-id-cards-on-aug-3-2026 ### 2026-07-25: Greece mandates new EU plastic driver’s licences by Jan 2033 Greece requires all drivers to switch to EU‑type plastic licences by 19 Jan 2033; mandatory for those 65+, damaged, lost or modifying categories, with online renewal via gov.gr. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-extends-use-of-old-id-cards-for-electronic-verification-until-2027 ### 2026-07-21: Paper ID cards lose EU travel validity in Italy and Greece from Aug 3, 2026 From 3 Aug 2026 paper identity cards in Italy and Greece cannot be used for travel abroad; citizens must obtain electronic IDs or passports, while domestic use continues until 31 Jan 2027. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-to-stop-old-ids-for-international-travel-from-aug-2026 ### 2026-07-18: Greece extends old police ID use until September 2027 with limits Greece delays the phase‑out of old paper police IDs, extending limited use to 25 Sept 2027 for remote electronic verification, while they stop being valid for travel from Aug 2026 and fully expire in Sep 2027. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-sets-deadlines-for-replacing-old-id-cards-with-new-plastic-cards ### 2026-07-17: Hungary to retire old book‑format ID cards by August 2026 Hungary will invalidate book‑format ID cards issued before 2000 on 3 Aug 2026, urging families to help seniors replace them with free, card‑format IDs, with priority and mobile services available. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-to-retire-old-bookformat-id-cards-by-august-2026 ### 2026-07-16: European Digital Identity Wallet rollout meets awareness hurdles in Germany as Malta launches €15.6M tender A German survey shows low public awareness of the EU Digital Identity Wallet, while Malta issues a €15.6 million tender to build the wallet for EU‑wide use. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/european-digital-identity-wallet-rollout-meets-awareness-hurdles-in-germany-as-malta-launches-156m-t ### 2026-07-15: EU age‑verification app still bypassable as Google Wallet prepares proof‑of‑age feature EU's age‑verification app is still bypassable; Google Wallet is adding a zero‑knowledge proof‑of‑age feature, while misinformation about a mandatory digital passport is being corrected. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-ageverification-app-still-vulnerable-as-researcher-shows-bypass ### 2026-07-15: Verimi to shut down by 2026 as EU launches mandatory digital ID wallet Berlin‑based Verimi, backed by major German firms, will close by end‑2026 as the EU’s new mandatory EUDI digital‑ID wallet makes its service redundant; operations continue until the deadline with staff support. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/verimi-to-shut-down-by-2026-as-eu-launches-mandatory-digital-id-wallet ### 2026-07-15: Greek defence ministry warned of ID gap for soldiers before 2026 citizen ID shift Greece’s new citizen ID, to roll out on 3 Aug 2026, will replace the military ID, prompting the defence ministry to clarify how soldiers will prove their status for benefits and services. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greek-defence-ministry-warned-of-id-gap-for-soldiers-before-2026-citizen-id-shift ### 2026-07-15: Romania's new electronic ID cards face implementation hurdles Romania's electronic ID cards lack a printed address, requiring extra digital certification, and cannot yet be issued at embassies, pending Ministry of Foreign Affairs implementation. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanias-new-electronic-id-cards-face-implementation-hurdles ### 2026-07-14: South Tyrol residents face IO app error uploading licenses with umlaut characters IO app cannot process South Tyrol IDs containing umlaut characters, blocking digital licences; councilor Rieder has urged the provincial government, which says it is working with the interior ministry on a fix. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italys-io-app-itwallet-hits-umlaut-name-bug-as-new-digital-documents-are-slated-for-rollout ### 2026-07-13: Hungary to retire book‑format ID cards on Aug 3, urging seniors to replace them Hungary says book‑format ID cards issued before 2000 will expire on Aug 3; seniors are urged to replace them promptly, with free permanent cards for those 70+, and special services for the elderly. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-to-retire-bookformat-id-cards-on-aug-3-urging-seniors-to-replace-them ### 2026-07-13: Greece extends old police IDs until September 2027 with restrictions Greece will accept old police IDs only for remote electronic ID checks until 25 Sept 2027; they cease to be valid for travel or general use, and new cards require a €10 fee and online appointment. 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-extends-old-police-id-use-to-sept-2027-for-select-eservices ### 2026-07-12: Italy phases out paper ID cards for travel, urges electronic replacements Italy bans paper ID cards for overseas travel from 3 Aug 2026, urging citizens to obtain electronic IDs; local offices report a surge in CIE applications ahead of the deadline. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-phases-out-paper-id-cards-for-travel-urges-electronic-replacements ### 2026-07-11: Greece extends use of old ID cards for digital services until 2027 Greece will allow old police ID cards with Latin characters to be used for remote digital verification and trust‑service certificates until 25 Sept 2027, but not for travel or general ID purposes. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-sets-august-3-2026-deadline-for-new-eucompliant-id-cards ### 2026-07-09: Hungary to retire paper-format ID cards by Aug 3 2026 Hungary will invalidate paper‑format IDs on 3 Aug 2026; holders must obtain an e‑ID, with free senior issuance and exemptions for other valid IDs. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-to-retire-paper-format-id-cards-by-aug-3-2026 ### 2026-07-09: Greece sets Aug 3 2026 deadline for new biometric ID cards Greece must switch to new biometric IDs with MRZ by 3 Aug 2026; old “blue” cards will cease to be valid for travel. Applications are booked online, cost €10 (‑5€ for large families), and cards arrive in about a 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greeces-new-id-cards-required-by-3-august-2026 ### 2026-07-08: Digital Identity Firms Roll Out Reusable KYC Solutions for Enterprises Signicat‑TrustTech and Proof‑Enigma each launched reusable identity solutions—private wallets in Europe and Business Certificates for agentic commerce—to cut repetitive verification and boost trust for firms. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-identity-firms-roll-out-reusable-kyc-solutions-for-enterprises ### 2026-07-07: Italy prolongs paper ID validity, adds temporary cards in eID shift Italy's decree‑law 108/2026 extends paper ID use domestically to 31 Jan 2027, ends travel use on 3 Aug 2026, and introduces a six‑month provisional ID while CIE rollout continues, with open‑day sessions in Rome 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-extends-paper-id-validity-amid-shift-to-electronic-id-cards ### 2026-07-05: Greece sets Aug 3 2026 deadline for new EU‑compliant identity cards Greece's blue IDs become invalid for international travel on 3 Aug 2026; citizens must get new €10 (or €5 for large families) machine‑readable cards via a new online appointment system. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-sets-aug-2026-deadline-for-new-biometric-id-cards ### 2026-07-02: Italy holds electronic ID card open days in Rome and Sanremo Italy opens special days in Rome (July 4‑5) and Sanremo (July 4) for citizens to swap paper IDs for electronic ones, requiring appointments, fees and specific documents. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-holds-electronic-id-card-open-days-in-rome-and-sanremo ### 2026-07-01: Moldova expands digital identity to 14‑year‑olds Moldova’s July 1 regulation change lets 14‑year‑olds obtain a qualified electronic‑signature certificate in their ID, expanding e‑government access while keeping limited legal capacity. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-expands-digital-identity-to-14yearolds ### 2026-06-30: Digital Trust Platforms Transform E‑Signature Market Enterprises adopt integrated digital trust platforms—combining e‑signatures, identity verification, biometrics—to combat AI‑driven fraud, with governments in Bosnia, Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, Vietnam and Laos pil​​ 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-trust-platforms-transform-esignature-market ### 2026-06-30: EU and UK Digital Identity Initiatives Confront Trust Issues and Platform Dependence EU digital ID wallets rely on Google and Apple safety services, sparking concerns about platform lock‑in, while UK banks pilot a voluntary digital verification service to boost trust and cut fraud, amid ongoing 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-and-uk-digital-identity-initiatives-confront-trust-issues-and-platform-dependence ### 2026-06-30: Italian government extends validity of paper ID cards Italy’s Decree Law 108 keeps paper ID cards valid domestically until their natural expiry but bars their use for overseas travel after 3 Aug 2026, urging a shift to the electronic CIE. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-government-extends-validity-of-paper-id-cards ### 2026-06-29: Croatia to switch from HZZO smart cards to new health worker IDs for CEZIH Croatia will replace HZZO smart cards with new authorised health‑worker IDs on 1 July, ending card validity on 30 June 2026, to secure electronic access and signatures for the CEZIH system. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/croatia-to-switch-from-hzzo-smart-cards-to-new-health-worker-ids-for-cezih ### 2026-06-28: EU Hotels Under Scrutiny for Illegal Copying of Guest IDs EU hotels may breach GDPR by copying guest IDs, risking identity theft, while Austria's ÖAMTC urges travellers to verify passport and ID validity before summer holidays. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-hotels-under-scrutiny-for-illegal-copying-of-guest-ids ### 2026-06-28: Italy extends paper ID cards, launches national maths high school and reforms labour rules Italy launches a national maths high school pilot, extends paper ID card validity to 2027, and passes Decreto Lavoro 2026 reforming wage setting and agency‑worker rules. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-extends-paper-id-cards-validity-and-adopts-new-labor-decree-on-wages ### 2026-06-28: Croatia bans dental amalgam, mandates glass‑ionomer fillings and new digital ID for health workers From July 1, Croatia ends routine dental amalgam use, requiring glass‑ionomer or hybrid fillings under HZZO, and rolls out new digital ID cards for health workers to access the CEZIH system. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/croatia-bans-dental-amalgam-mandates-glassionomer-fillings-and-new-digital-id-for-health-workers ### 2026-06-26: Romania adopts German solution for EU digital identity wallet Romania will use Germany's open‑source technology to launch the EU Digital Identity Wallet, with a mobile app rollout starting in 2026 and future private‑sector participation. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-adopts-german-solution-for-eu-digital-identity-wallet ### 2026-06-26: Italy's IT‑Wallet digital ID platform reaches 10 million users Italy’s IT‑Wallet in the IO app has topped 10 million activations and 20 million stored documents, with plans for 200 credentials by 2026 as SPID begins charging fees. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italys-itwallet-digital-identity-app-tops-20-million-stored-documents ### 2026-06-25: Italy extends paper identity card validity until 2027, pushes transition to electronic CIE Italy prolongs paper identity card use until Jan 31 2027, limiting functions and urging shift to electronic CIE; Foggia opens an extra office day for replacements. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-extends-paper-identity-card-validity-until-2027-pushes-transition-to-electronic-cie ### 2026-06-24: Greek Data Protection Authority bans hotels from photocopying IDs and credit cards Greece’s Data Protection Authority ordered hotels to stop copying IDs and credit‑cards, citing GDPR violations and urging industry bodies to inform members of the new rules. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greek-data-protection-authority-bans-hotels-from-photocopying-ids-and-credit-cards ### 2026-06-24: Italian cities expand electronic ID card appointments Italian municipalities boost electronic ID card appointments, with Reggio Emilia adding 1,000 slots and Rome holding a June Open Day; paper IDs remain valid domestically but lose travel use after Aug 3 2026. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-cities-expand-electronic-id-card-appointments ### 2026-06-24: Romania abolishes paper ID copies with new e‑ID verification law Romania is set to ban requests for paper copies of IDs, requiring authorities to verify data via the National Register, with fines of up to 3,000 lei for non‑compliance. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-abolishes-paper-id-copies-with-new-eid-verification-law ### 2026-06-22: Italy extends paper ID card validity, stops overseas use Italy will keep paper ID cards valid until they expire, but they can no longer be used for overseas travel; citizens must obtain an electronic ID (CIE) or passport, and the shift eases municipal workload. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-government-extends-validity-of-paper-identity-cards ### 2026-06-21: Greek citizens must use new ID cards for travel after Aug 3 Starting 3 Aug, old Greek ID cards stop working for foreign travel; citizens need the new ID or a passport. Domestic use stays unchanged, and issuance requires costly, limited‑availability appointments. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greek-citizens-must-use-new-id-cards-for-travel-after-aug-3 ### 2026-06-20: Greece to phase out blue ID cards by 3 August 2026 Greece will stop accepting blue police IDs for travel after 3 Aug 2026; citizens must get new MRZ‑equipped cards, costing €10 (€5 for large families), via online appointment system. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-to-phase-out-blue-id-cards-by-3-august-2026 ### 2026-06-19: Italy's paper ID cards lose overseas validity from Aug 3 2026 Italy will stop accepting paper ID cards for overseas travel on 3 August 2026; citizens must use the electronic ID card or a passport, while paper cards remain valid only for domestic admin tasks until their ​‑ 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italys-paper-id-cards-lose-overseas-validity-from-aug-3-2026 ### 2026-06-19: Italian government extends paper identity cards’ validity until natural expiry Italy delays ending paper ID cards, keeping them valid until their expiry for domestic use, but not for travel abroad; officials warn of confusion and urge shift to electronic IDs. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bologna-officials-denounce-government-extension-of-paper-id-validity ### 2026-06-17: Italy extends validity of paper identity cards amid electronic ID rollout Italy prolongs paper ID validity past Aug 3, supporting municipalities facing electronic ID delays; Anzio offers July open‑day slots for the new CIE. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-extends-validity-of-paper-identity-cards-amid-electronic-id-rollout ### 2026-06-17: Gorj county rolls out electronic ID cards at mall and caravan Gorj county starts issuing new electronic ID cards at a Târgu Jiu mall (25 June) and a Bolboși caravan (30 June), free for adults 14+, with EU funding and enhanced security features. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gorj-county-rolls-out-electronic-id-cards-at-mall-and-caravan ### 2026-06-17: Italian Government Extends Validity of Paper Identity Cards Italy's cabinet extended paper ID cards' validity until natural expiry to avoid citizen inconvenience and ease municipal office pressure, sparking local political criticism in Alghero. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alghero-assessor-enrico-daga-blasted-over-paper-idcard-extension ### 2026-06-17: Italian government extends paper ID card validity beyond Aug 3 deadline Italy postpones the end of paper ID cards, keeping non‑expired ones valid until natural expiry while the electronic ID rollout faces municipal delays. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-extends-validity-of-paper-identity-cards-beyond-august-deadline ### 2026-06-16: Hungary sets Aug 3 2026 deadline for old book‑format ID cards Hungary will cancel paper book‑format ID cards on 3 Aug 2026; citizens must obtain a new electronic eSzemélyi card unless they have other valid ID, with free issuance for those turning 70. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-sets-aug-3-2026-deadline-for-old-bookformat-id-cards ### 2026-06-15: Italian government extends paper ID card validity past Aug 3 2026 Italy delays the end of paper ID cards; unexpired cards stay valid until their natural expiry, but cease to be accepted by post offices and for EU travel after 3 Aug 2026. 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-extends-validity-of-paper-identity-cards-past-august-2026 ### 2026-06-15: Romania imposes higher traffic fines and charges for electronic ID cards from July 1 2026 Romania will raise traffic fines (fine‑point value to 216.5 lei) and end free issuance of electronic ID cards on 1 July 2026, introducing fees of 70 lei (chip) and 40 lei (non‑chip). 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-limits-paper-id-issuance-and-offers-free-electronic-ids ### 2026-06-14: Hungary retires old IDs, launches EU‑first attribute certificates Hungary will invalidate old book‑format ID cards on Aug 3, urging citizens to get new electronic IDs, while Hungarian firm Microsec becomes the EU’s first qualified attribute‑certificate provider under eIDAS. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-retires-old-ids-launches-eufirst-attribute-certificates ### 2026-06-12: Hungary Sets 2026 Deadline to Replace Old Paper ID Cards with eID Hungary will invalidate paper ID cards on 3 Aug 2026; citizens must obtain an electronic ID in person, with free issue for those 70+, and exceptions for holders of other valid documents. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-sets-2026-deadline-to-replace-old-paper-id-cards-with-eid ### 2026-06-12: Italian municipalities boost identity card services for residents Marano residents commend efficient registry service; Assisi holds an open‑day to issue up to 70 electronic IDs without appointment, easing the shift from paper cards. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-municipalities-boost-identity-card-services-for-residents ### 2026-06-12: Romanian ID Card Travel Rules for 2026: Passport Required in Four European Countries From 2026 Romanians may use only their ID card to enter most EU members and several non‑EU states; a passport is still required for the UK, Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanian-id-card-travel-rules-for-2026-passport-required-in-four-european-countries ### 2026-06-11: EU Digital Identity Wallet faces user oversharing risk A study shows EU digital ID wallet users tend to overshare data, while ETSI releases the first technical standards as the wallet, slated for EU-wide rollout by end‑2026, moves toward implementation. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-digital-identity-wallet-faces-user-oversharing-risk ### 2026-06-10: Bucharest rolls out electronic ID cards with nationwide appointment system Bucharest now lets citizens apply for free electronic ID cards at any county office, with appointments booked online; documents, fees and office locations are detailed. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bucharest-rolls-out-electronic-id-cards-with-nationwide-appointment-system ### 2026-06-09: Italian municipalities open extra offices for electronic ID cards Italy will drop paper ID cards on 3 Aug 2026; towns are opening special offices for electronic IDs, with consumer groups urging extra windows for seniors and vulnerable citizens. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-municipalities-open-extra-offices-for-electronic-id-cards ### 2026-06-09: Germany's Eudi‑Wallet launch delayed amid management and security concerns Germany's Eudi‑Wallet is delayed past its Jan 2 2027 launch due to management chaos, conflict‑of‑interest issues, and ignored security concerns, leaving key functions missing at rollout. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germanys-eudiwallet-launch-delayed-amid-management-and-security-concerns ### 2026-06-09: Greece sets August 3, 2026 deadline for new biometric ID cards Greece requires all citizens to replace old non‑MRZ ID cards with new digital versions by 3 August 2026; €10 fee ( €5 for large families) and an electronic appointment are required, otherwise passports must be 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greece-sets-august-3-2026-deadline-for-new-biometric-id-cards ### 2026-06-08: Croatian police to alert 13,000 citizens about expiring ID cards Croatia will invalidate ID cards issued before 2003 on 3 Aug 2024; police will mail notices to 13,000 affected citizens, who must apply for new, more secure IDs or face fines up to €590. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/croatian-police-to-alert-13000-citizens-about-expiring-id-cards ### 2026-06-07: EU to roll out European Digital Identity Wallet for driver’s licences and IDs by 2027 The EU will launch a digital wallet by 2027 to store driver’s licences, ID cards and other official documents on smartphones, with a pilot in Spain and mandatory member‑state rollout under eIDAS 2.0. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-to-roll-out-european-digital-identity-wallet-for-drivers-licences-and-ids-by-2027 ### 2026-06-06: EU Digital Identity Wallet to launch by 2027, reshaping banking and public services The EU's eIDAS 2.0 regulation will roll out the European Digital Identity Wallet by 2027, enabling citizens to store verified credentials on smartphones and use them for banking, health, and public services, as 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-digital-identity-wallet-to-launch-by-2027-reshaping-banking-and-public-services ### 2026-06-05: Moldova rolls out digital ID wallet and smart energy meters to deepen EU integration Moldova unveiled the EVO digital ID wallet at its Digital Summit and plans to install smart energy meters within five years, steps aimed at boosting EU integration and service efficiency. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-rolls-out-digital-id-wallet-and-smart-energy-meters-to-deepen-eu-integration ### 2026-06-05: Taranto municipality faces delays and suspension in electronic ID card rollout Taranto’s municipal offices warn of staffing shortfalls ahead of the 2026 deadline for electronic ID cards, while a central technical fault has temporarily halted CIE issuance, leaving only two urgent‑service + 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italys-municipal-offices-grapple-with-electronic-id-card-issuance-delays ### 2026-06-03: Italy expands electronic ID card service with open days Italy opens multiple service windows in June for electronic ID cards (CIE) as paper IDs expire on 3 Aug 2026; appointments required, documents listed. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-expands-electronic-id-card-service-with-open-days ### 2026-06-01: Italy allows overseas residents to obtain electronic ID cards at any municipality From 1 June Italians abroad can apply for electronic ID cards at any Italian municipality; Acqui Terme will hold special weekly hours for CIE issuance June‑August 2026 ahead of paper‑ID phase‑out. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-allows-overseas-residents-to-obtain-electronic-id-cards-at-any-municipality ### 2026-05-28: Fiumicino and Vinci announce final open days for electronic ID cards Fiumicino and Vinci are holding final no‑appointment days in June and May to replace paper IDs with electronic ones before paper cards expire on 3 Aug 2026. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fiumicino-and-vinci-announce-final-open-days-for-electronic-id-cards ### 2026-05-19: Romania Sets Deadline for Free Electronic ID Cards, Fees Apply After June 2026 Romania offers free electronic ID cards until June 2026; afterward a 70‑lei fee applies, with online appointment required. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-sets-deadline-for-free-electronic-id-cards-fees-apply-after-june-2026 ### 2026-05-19: EU advances European Digital Identity Wallet to streamline administration EU’s EUDI Wallet will store IDs, enable digital payments and cut admin costs, pending German cabinet approval. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-advances-european-digital-identity-wallet-to-streamline-administration ### 2026-05-15: EU mandates digital wallet for ID and driver’s licences from 2027 EU rules require a digital wallet for ID, driver’s licence and other official papers on phones from 2027. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-mandates-digital-wallet-for-id-and-drivers-licences-from-2027 ### 2026-05-15: Romania advances digital public service reforms with electronic hospital attendance system and e‑ID rollout Romania pushes digital reforms: electronic attendance in public hospitals and free rollout of secure e‑ID cards. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-advances-digital-public-service-reforms-with-electronic-hospital-attendance-system-and-eid-r ### 2026-05-13: Belgium to Enable Smartphone Digital Signatures via MyGov.be App This Autumn Belgium will let citizens sign official documents on smartphones via the MyGov.be app, giving digital signatures full legal weight. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/belgium-to-enable-smartphone-digital-signatures-via-mygovbe-app-this-autumn ### 2026-05-12: Romania issues free first electronic ID cards to citizens 14+ until June 2026 Romania provides free first electronic ID cards to citizens aged 14+ until 30 June 2026, with online scheduling. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-issues-free-first-electronic-id-cards-to-citizens-14-until-june-2026 ### 2026-05-11: Italy to cease validity of paper identity cards on August 3 Italy will invalidate paper identity cards on 3 August, making only the electronic CIE valid nationwide and in the EU. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-to-cease-validity-of-paper-identity-cards-on-august-3 ### 2026-05-10: Czech Republic moves to replace millions of old ID cards and driver licences by August 2026 Czech Republic requires millions to swap old ID cards by Aug 2026 and driver licences by year‑end, with online applications and fines for lapses. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/czech-republic-moves-to-replace-millions-of-old-id-cards-and-driver-licences-by-august-2026 ### 2026-05-10: Belgium phases out old eID signing certificates and adds free municipal ID photos Belgium will invalidate eID signing certificates on 21 May 2026 and offers free ID photos at Retie from 12 Aug 2024. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/belgium-phases-out-old-eid-signing-certificates-and-adds-free-municipal-id-photos ### 2026-05-09: Romanian electronic ID cards offered free of charge until June 2026 Romania's electronic ID cards will be free for citizens 14+ until 30 June 2026, with online booking and biometric enrollment. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanian-electronic-id-cards-offered-free-of-charge-until-june-2026 ### 2026-04-17: Italy to replace paper identity card with electronic CIE starting August 3, 2026 Italy will phase out the paper ID in favor of the electronic CIE from August 3, 2026. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-to-replace-paper-identity-card-with-electronic-cie-starting-august-3-2026 --- Cite as: EU digital ID transition and rollout. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-countries-accelerate-transition-to-electronic-identity-cards-in-2026