Farewell to paper ID cards: the electronic version becomes mandatory
As of August 3, 2026, paper ID cards will no longer be valid. Here's what changes and how to request the CIE
Contesto
Historic Change for Identity Documents Starting August 3, 2026, old paper documents will no longer be valid. The Municipality of Varese has announced that, from this date onwards, even if the expiry date on the document is later, the paper identity card will no longer be usable, neither for identification within the national territory nor for travel abroad. This mandatory transition affects all Varese citizens still in possession of the old 'light' paper identity card. ### Extra Opening Hours for the Registry Office To facilitate the switch to the electronic identity card (CIE), the Municipality of Varese has decided to enhance the service of the Registry Office in via Sacco, planning a series of extra opening hours starting from May. This extraordinary service is aimed at those who need to replace the paper document by August 3. 📊 Concrete Examples: - Varese: 5,000 citizens still need to switch to the CIE. - Lugano (CH): 3,500 Italian residents need to update their document. - Bellinzona (CH): 2,200 Italian citizens need to replace their paper card. ### How to Book To manage the flow of requests and avoid queues, the Municipality has set up a specific online agenda dedicated exclusively to those who need to replace the paper document. Booking is mandatory and can only be done by appointment through the website of the Municipality of Varese. It is possible to book remotely at any time, even without authentication (SPID or CIE). Appointments will take place at the offices in via Sacco. 💡 Operational Checklist: 1. Check the expiry date of your paper document. 2. Book online through the website of the Municipality of Varese. 3. Bring a recent photograph and a valid identity document. 4. Pay the cost of the CIE, which amounts to 22.21 euros (valid amount in Italy;...
Dettagli operativi
Practical Implications for Citizens The switch to the electronic identity card (CIE) represents a significant change for the citizens of Varese, especially for those who work or live in Ticino. The CIE offers numerous advantages, including greater security and the possibility of using it for travel abroad. However, it is important to be aware of the deadlines and procedures necessary to obtain the new document, especially for those who frequently travel between Italy and Switzerland. ### What Changes with the CIE The electronic identity card contains a microchip that stores the biographical data and image of the holder. This makes the document more secure and difficult to forge. Additionally, the CIE can be used for travel to all countries of the European Union and many other foreign countries, without the need to request a passport. For example, for a citizen of Varese who frequently travels to Lugano for work, the CIE greatly simplifies the identification and border control process. ### Deadlines and Procedures It is essential to respect the deadline of August 3, 2026 to avoid problems with the validity of the document. To request the CIE, you must appear at the appointment at the Anagrafe Office in via Sacco with the required documents, which include a recent photograph and the old identity document. The process of issuing the CIE takes approximately 6-8 working days, so it is advisable to book in advance. For residents of Varese who work in Ticino, it is possible to request the CIE also at the border municipal offices such as Mendrisio or Chiasso, where dedicated services are available. ### Operational Checklist - Required Documents: - Recent photograph (ID format, white background) - Old identity document - Tax code - Possible residence permit for re...
Punti chiave
What to do to obtain the CIE To obtain the electronic identity card (CIE), it is necessary to follow some simple but important steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to request the CIE, with concrete examples and specific references for residents in Ticino. 1. Online booking: Access the website of the Municipality of residence and book an appointment through the dedicated agenda. For example, in the Municipality of Lugano, it is possible to book online through the official portal, with an average availability of 15 working days. In Bellinzona, on the other hand, the booking can be made through the municipal computer system, with waiting times that vary between 7 and 10 days. 2. Required documents: Prepare a recent photograph (format 35x40 mm, white background) and the old paper identity document. Some municipalities, such as Locarno, also require a copy of the residence permit for foreign citizens. It is important to verify the specific requirements of your municipality of residence. 3. Appointment at the Registry Office: Attend the appointment at the Registry Office with the required documents. In Mendrisio, for example, the Registry Office is located in Via G. Cattaneo 2, and the opening hours to the public are from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. In Chiasso, the Registry Office is located in Via San Francesco 3, with similar opening hours. 4. Collection of the document: After a few days, collect the CIE at the Registry Office or receive it by post, depending on the methods provided by the Municipality. In Lugano, the collection can take place after about 10 working days, while in Bellinzona the average waiting time is 7 days. ### Useful tips - Advance booking: It is advisable to book in advance to avoid prolonged waiting ti...
Punti chiave
[{"q":"What is the deadline for switching to the electronic identity card?","a":"The deadline for switching to the electronic identity card is August 3, 2026. After this date, paper documents will no longer be valid."},{"q":"How can I book an appointment to obtain the CIE?","a":"You can book an appointment through the website of the Municipality of Varese, using the agenda dedicated to CIE requests."},{"q":"Which documents are required to apply for the CIE?","a":"To apply for the CIE, you need to present a recent photograph and the old paper identity document."}]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the deadline for switching to the electronic identity card?
- The deadline for switching to the electronic identity card is August 3, 2026. After this date, paper documents will no longer be valid.
- How can I book an appointment to obtain the CIE?
- You can book an appointment through the website of the Municipality of Varese, using the agenda dedicated to CIE requests.
- Which documents are required to apply for the CIE?
- To apply for the CIE, you need to present a recent photograph and the old paper identity document.