Paper identity card, there is an extension: there is no point in running to the Municipality for electronics

Who still owns the old one paper identity card can breathe a sigh of relief: there will be no need to rush to the Municipality in the coming months to replace it. The Council of Ministers has in fact decided to extend the life of the traditional document, which will remain valid in all respects until the day of its birth natural expiryprinted on the document itself. The definitive block that was initially set for is thus cancelled August 3, 2026.

Previously, a directive from Ministry of the Interior released in February had established that after that August date the old paper forms would go out of date, forcing millions of citizens to book an appointment at the municipal counters to obtain the new Electronic Identity Card (CIE). The Government’s recent provision cancels this tight deadline to avoid chaos in public offices and make citizens’ lives easier.

Validity guaranteed with the Public Administration

As specified in the official note from Palazzo Chigi, paper documents that are still valid will continue to be valid perfectly legitimate both in relationships with the whole Public Administrationboth with all the companies and entities that manage the public services.

What happens in case of an expired document

The decree introduces important news also for those who find themselves with the document already expired or deteriorated. In the event that the registry office of your municipality is unable to immediately issue the electronic card due to waiting times or technical problems, the municipal offices will have the right to issue a temporary identity document. This temporary solution will allow citizens to identify themselves and complete their paperwork while waiting for the final CIE to be printed and delivered.