Greece extends use of old-style ID cards for digital transactions
Under a decision issued by the competent ministry, old police-issued ID cards that display the holder’s name and surname in both Greek and Latin characters will remain valid for certain digital authentication procedures until September 25, 2027.
Preventing Digital Exclusion
The move comes at a time when digital services are rapidly expanding across both the public and private sectors in Greece. Due to the slow pace of replacement of old identity cards with new-generation IDs, authorities acknowledged that many citizens risk being unable to access key digital services.
The extension is intended to bridge this gap and ensure continued and inclusive access to digital platforms.
Which Transactions Are Covered?
The decision primarily αφορά remote identity verification processes. In particular, old-style IDs can continue to be used for digital procedures related to the issuance of trust services certificates (πιστοποιητικά παροχής υπηρεσιών εμπιστοσύνης), which require verified personal identification.
Accepted Documents for Digital Use
According to the ministerial decision, the following documents will be accepted for eligible digital transactions:
- Old-style police-issued national identity cards
- Identity cards issued to Armed Forces personnel
- Identity cards of security services personnel (such as police)
Valid residence permits of third-country nationals, issued under Law 4251/2014 and Presidential Decree 106/2007
Ensuring Continuity in Digital Services
With this regulation, Greek authorities aim to guarantee that citizens and employees with different legal statuses can continue using digital services without disruption, while the country gradually completes its transition to modern identity documents.
