New ID cards: Mandatory replacement deadline set for August 3, 2026

All citizens will be required to replace their old ID cards by August 3, 2026, as part of a new regulation introducing updated, more secure, and digitally enhanced identity cards.

Under EU Regulation 2019/1157, any ID card that does not include a machine-readable zone (MRZ) will no longer be valid after that date. The replacement process is mandatory and subject to a fee.

Fees for Issuing a New ID Card

€10 e-Paravolo (Code: 4485): Covers production, printing, personalization, and secure delivery of the card.

€5 e-Paravolo (Code: 4486): Reduced fee for large families.

€0.50 e-Paravolo (Code: 2043): Stamp duty.

All e-Paravolo payments must be completed before visiting the police station to apply. Applications without proof of payment will not be accepted.

New Appointment System Coming Soon

With the upcoming launch of the “Personal Number” scheme, demand for ID replacements is expected to rise sharply. To manage this, the Ministry of Digital Governance is introducing a new online appointment system.

Minister Dimitris Papastergiou stated that the system will make the process easier for citizens and help reduce congestion at police stations.