From 3 August 2026, the paper Identity Card (Carta d’Identità Cartacea) will no longer be valid for international travel, regardless of the expiry date shown on the back of the document.
As is already the case, the Italian identity card is not valid for travel to or from New Zealand.
DL No. 108 of 26/06/2026 has introduced the following important changes:
- A valid paper Identity Card may continue to be used as a means of identification when dealing with Italian public authorities and providers of public services, including Italian Consulates.
- In cases of urgency, Italian municipalities may issue a temporary identity document valid for international travel. This document is non-renewable and has a maximum validity of six months. Please note that it may not be accepted by some foreign countries. Before travelling, check your destination country’s entry requirements on the Viaggiare Sicuri website.
Contact the Italian Consulate nearest to you to find out how to apply for the new Electronic Identity Card (Carta d’Identità Elettronica – CIE): https://www.esteri.it/it/ministero/struttura/laretediplomatica/
Since 1 June 2026, Italian citizens residing abroad and registered with AIRE (Registry of Italians Resident Abroad) may also apply for an Electronic Identity Card (CIE) at any Italian municipality, as provided for by Law No. 11 of 19 January 2026.
Please remember to bring your Italian Tax Code (Codice Fiscale) with you.
