Old Greek ID cards to remain valid until September 2027
The use of old-style Greek police identity cards has been officially extended until September 2027, following a new ministerial decision published in the Government Gazette. The measure aims to address problems caused by delays in issuing the new, high-security ID cards and to ensure the smooth operation of digital public services.
What the New Decision Provides
The amendment αφορά Ministerial Decision No. 27499 ΕΞ 2021, which sets the standards and requirements for the remote electronic identification of natural persons. This process is essential for the secure and lawful issuance of trust service certificates, such as digital signatures.
Authorities deemed the extension necessary due to significant delays in the rollout of the new identity cards featuring advanced security and digital elements.
Which ID Cards Remain Valid Until 2027
Under the official decision, old-type police ID cards that display the holder’s full name in both Greek and Latin characters will remain valid for electronic identification procedures until 25 September 2027.
This extension applies exclusively to remote identification processes required for the issuance of digital trust service certificates. Also accepted are:
- Identity cards issued to members of the Armed Forces and Security Services
- Valid residence permits issued to third-country nationals under Law 4251/2014 and Presidential Decree 106/2007
- Legal Framework and Reasons for the Extension
The ministerial decision is based on EU Regulation 910/2014 (eIDAS), which governs electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions within the EU internal market. It also takes into account Law 4727/2020 on Digital Governance and the modernization of public services.
The Ministry of Digital Governance emphasized that the amendment does not create any additional burden on the state budget. The extension was considered necessary due to objective difficulties encountered in the production and distribution of the new ID cards with embedded digital security features.
When the Regulation Takes Effect
The extension entered into force immediately upon its publication in the Government Gazette. Citizens can now continue using their old identity cards for all remote electronic identification procedures required for digital services, without restrictions.
The regulation ensures uninterrupted access to digital services, including electronic signature certificates and other trust services, while providing sufficient time for the completion of the nationwide issuance of the new ID cards.
