With the new Greek ID card you can travel without a passport throughout the EU, the Schengen area, the European microstates and seven neighbouring countries, including Turkey and Albania. The old ID card is no longer accepted as a travel document.
What changed on 3 August 2026
From 03/08/2026 old ID cards are not accepted for travel, not even within the Schengen area. They lack the modern security features and machine-readable zone required by Regulation (EU) 2019/1157. You travel either with the new ID card or with a valid passport.
The new ID card shows your details in both Greek and Latin characters and has a chip. It is also required to apply for a passport.
Countries where the new ID card is enough
| Group | Countries |
|---|---|
| European Union (27) | All member states, including Cyprus, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania |
| EFTA / Schengen outside the EU | Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein |
| European microstates | San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, Vatican City |
| Third countries with special arrangements | Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Georgia, Turkey |
Sources: Hellenic Police – ID card issue · Documento, 11/05/2026
Watch out in three cases
- United Kingdom and Northern Ireland: they do not accept EU ID cards for visitors. You need a passport and an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).
- Turkey and Bosnia: entry with an ID card allows a limited length of stay (historically up to one month). Rules change, so confirm before you go.
- Airlines: some low-cost carriers have asked for a passport at boarding for non-Schengen destinations, even though an ID card is legally sufficient. Read the airline’s terms.
When you definitely need a passport
For any trip outside Europe (USA, Asia, Africa, Latin America) and for European countries not on the list above, such as the United Kingdom, Ukraine and Moldova. Also for trips where you might continue on to a country not on the list.
ID card and Gov.gr Wallet
The digital ID in the Gov.gr Wallet is valid for transactions within Greece and for domestic flights. It does not replace the physical document at another country’s border. Always carry your plastic ID card.
Travel agency tip
If you still have an old ID card, book an appointment for a new one before booking tickets. At check-in, enter the number of the document you will actually travel with, as many airlines check that it matches the booking.
Frequently asked questions
Can I travel to Italy with the old ID card? No, from 03/08/2026 you need the new ID card or a passport.
Can I go to Istanbul with an ID card? Yes, with the new ID card, for a limited length of stay.
Can I go to London with an ID card? No, you need a passport and an ETA.
Sources: Hellenic Police – ID card issue · ertnews.gr – New ID cards from August 2026 · Documento – Countries with ID card only
Validity: This article reflects the sources as of 29/07/2026 (most recent source, ertnews.gr). Later changes are not included.
Photo: Chatree Petjan / StockSnap.io, CC0 – free to use (source)