National ID card renewal in Italy
Renewing an Italian National ID card (Carta d'Identità Elettronica - CIE) typically involves booking an appointment at the municipality of residence or at an Italian consulate abroad, submitting necessary documents, and waiting for the card to be issued and delivered.
It is advisable to initiate the renewal process several months before the card's expiration date. Appointment waiting times at municipalities or consulates can vary significantly, and the electronic ID card itself is not issued immediately but is sent by post within a few working days after the appointment.
Start 180 days ahead
This accounts for potential long waiting times for appointments at some municipalities or consulates, and the subsequent processing and delivery time for the electronic ID card.
The process
- 1Verify the expiration date of the current National ID card. Renewal can generally be requested from 180 days before the expiration date.
- 2Book an appointment: For residents in Italy, an appointment should be booked online through the Ministry of Interior's CIE agenda portal or directly with the local municipality. For Italians residing abroad, an appointment must be booked with the relevant Italian Consulate.
- 3Attend the appointment at the chosen municipality or consulate. Bring all required documents.
- 4Submit your fingerprints and provide a digital signature, if applicable.
- 5Pay the prescribed fee during the appointment.
- 6The new electronic ID card will be sent by post to the specified address within approximately 6 working days from the appointment date.
- 7Upon receipt, verify that all details on the new card are correct.
What to bring
- The expired or expiring National ID card.
- One recent passport-sized photograph (conforming to ICAO standards).
- Health card (Tessera Sanitaria) or tax code (Codice Fiscale) card.
- For cases of loss or theft, a report filed with the police or Carabinieri, along with another valid identification document if available.
- For individuals without a previous Italian ID card, another valid identification document or the presence of two witnesses (for first issuance).
Who handles it
Ministero dell'Interno (Ministry of Interior), comuni (municipalities) in Italy, or Ambasciate e Consolati d'Italia (Italian Embassies and Consulates) abroad.
https://www.cartaidentita.interno.gov.it/
The standard fee for issuing the Carta d'Identità Elettronica (CIE) in Italy is typically around €22.00, which includes the state fee and secretariat rights. This fee can vary slightly depending on the municipality or if it's a duplicate due to loss/theft. Fees for applications made abroad at consulates might also differ. The exact amount should be confirmed at the time of booking or inquiry.
What commonly goes wrong
- Appointment availability can be limited, especially in larger cities or at busy consulates, requiring booking well in advance.
- Ensure the passport-sized photograph meets the strict ICAO standards, otherwise it may be rejected.
- If the previous card was lost or stolen, a formal police report is mandatory.
- Processing times for delivery are generally consistent, but postal delays can occur.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in Italy
National ID card renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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