The European Commission reminds citizens of all EU member states, including Greece and Cyprus, that they must replace their old-format identity cards by 3 August 2026.
After this date, old ID cards will no longer be valid or accepted for travel within the European Union.
In Cyprus, the renewal of identity documents is being carried out in accordance with EU Regulation 2019/1157, which aims to enhance the security of ID cards and residence permits. Holders of Cypriot ID cards with no expiry date are required to obtain new ones within the coming months. Otherwise, they will need to use their passports when crossing borders.
In Greece, the reform is more extensive. The country is phasing out identity cards of the old type, which have been in use since the 1960s. At the same time, Greece is introducing a new Personal Number (PA) system — a unified digital identifier that will eventually replace both the tax number (AFM) and the social security number (AMKA).
Citizens must obtain this new number by 5 November 2025, or they may face restrictions when submitting tax returns, paying contributions, or accessing e-services.
As part of these reforms, Greece and Cyprus are continuing to modernise their infrastructure: airports are being upgraded with investments totalling €170 million, while the digitalisation of public services is streamlining administrative procedures for residents and investors.
