Starting from June 2026, a new provision allows Italian citizens living abroad to apply for the Electronic Identity Card (CIE) not only through Italian consulates, but also at any municipality in Italy
As August 3rd 2026 approaches, when paper identity cards will no longer be valid, this new measure has been introduced allowing citizens to apply for the Electronic Identity Card not only at their competent consulate or AIRE municipality, but at any municipality in Italy.
The new framework introduced by Law No. 11/2026 and clarified by DAIT Circulars No. 35 of March 27th, 2026, and No. 54 of May 29th, 2026, establishes that, from June 1st, 2026, Italians living abroad and duly registered with AIRE will be able to submit their application in Italy without being bound by consular jurisdiction. The Ministerial Circular is addressed to Prefectures and Municipalities, providing operational guidance for implementation.
Appointments can be scheduled via the “Agenda CIE” platform or through the procedures established by each municipality.
The CIE may then be delivered either in Italy at the selected municipality or to the Italian address provided, or abroad, at the applicant’s foreign residence address or, where necessary, through the competent Italian Consulate.
A step forward in the digitalization and simplification of administrative procedures for Italian citizens living abroad.
Related article: https://www.mazzeschi.it/digital-shift-italy-phases-out-paper-identity-card-for-travel-abroad/
This article was written by Giuditta De Ricco and Greis Muca.
