Greece issues warning over old identity cards as minister urges citizens to switch

Greece’s Minister for Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrisochoidis, has urged citizens to obtain the country’s new-generation identity cards, saying that old-style identity cards are “essentially no longer valid.”

Chrisochoidis made the remarks as Greece continues its transition from older identity documents to the new identification cards, while addressing concerns over difficulties in securing appointments for their issuance.

Minister says appointment concerns have eased
Chrisochoidis said concerns that citizens were being given appointments at police stations far into the future have largely been resolved.

He advised people seeking new identity cards to check availability at different police stations and security units rather than relying solely on the station in their local area.

According to the minister, checking multiple locations can help applicants find an earlier available appointment.

Greece accelerates transition to new identity cards
The Greek government continues to encourage citizens to replace their old-style identity cards with the new-generation cards.

Chrisochoidis’ latest comments have renewed attention on the status of older identity documents and reinforced the government’s call for citizens to complete the transition without unnecessary delays.

People experiencing difficulties finding an appointment are advised to check the availability of other police stations through the appointment system.

Minister also addresses organised crime
Chrisochoidis also spoke about the government’s recent operations against organised crime in Greece.

According to the minister, the country’s organised crime unit has dismantled more than 270 criminal organisations over the past two years.