Italian paper ID card no longer valid for travel

From 3 August 2026 it cannot be used to cross borders; municipalities can issue a provisional document valid for travel instead.

What changes from 3 August

The Italian Consulate in Barcelona has announced that the paper identity card (the traditional cardboard version) will no longer be valid for expatriation, meaning for leaving Italy or crossing borders, starting 3 August 2026. The measure affects all Italian citizens holding that document who intend to use it for travel.

Until now the paper identity card worked as a travel document within the European Union and in other countries with agreements. From the indicated date only the electronic identity card (CIE) or the passport will be accepted for border crossing.

The new provisional document from municipalities

As an alternative, Italian municipalities (Comuni) may issue a provisional identity document valid for expatriation. This document replaces the old paper identity card for those who need to travel urgently and do not yet have the CIE or a passport.

The provisional document is issued at the municipality of residence. It has limited validity and serves only for exiting and entering Italy. It does not replace the CIE or the passport for long stays or procedures requiring an electronic document.

What to do if you have a consulate appointment

If you have an appointment at the Italian Consulate in Barcelona for a passport or CIE, the appointment remains valid. The consulate recommends attending with the usual documentation. If your only identification is the paper identity card, bring your passport if you have one, or request the provisional document from your municipality before travelling.

For step by step guidance on booking a consulate appointment for passport or CIE, see our guide: Italian Consulate in Barcelona appointment: passport and CIE step by step.

Official source: Italian Consulate in Barcelona - Paper ID card no longer valid for expatriation.