Greece ID Card

Greece ID Card – Everything You Need to Know (2025)

The Greece ID Card (Greek Identity Card, or Δελτίο Αστυνομικής Ταυτότητας) is the official identification document issued to Greek citizens, both in Greece and abroad. It serves as proof of identity and citizenship, and is required for access to public services, voting, travel within the EU, and more.

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Who Is Eligible?

• All Greek citizens aged 12 and above must hold a national ID card
• It is mandatory and serves as the primary identity document within Greece
• ID cards are issued by the Hellenic Police (Ελληνική Αστυνομία)

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New Greek ID Cards – 2024–2025 Update

In 2023–2024, Greece launched a new digital biometric ID card, fully compliant with EU Regulation 2019/1157. The updated card includes:

• Biometric chip (storing photo and fingerprints)
• MRZ (Machine-Readable Zone) for international use
• Digital security features to prevent forgery
• Data in Greek and Latin characters

It replaces the old paper-based ID booklet used until recently.

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What Information Is Shown?

The new Greek ID card includes:

• Full name (in Greek and Latin characters)
• Date and place of birth
• Gender
• Nationality (Greek)
• Unique ID number
• Card issue and expiry date
• Digital photo
• Fingerprints (digitally stored only)
• Signature

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Application Process (2025)

You must apply in person at your local police ID issuance office (Τμήμα Ταυτοτήτων Αστυνομίας).

Steps:

1. Book an appointment online or by phone at the nearest police station
2. Submit required documents
3. Biometric data (photo, fingerprints, signature) are taken at the station
4. Receive your new ID card within 5–10 working days

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Documents Required

• Greek birth certificate or old ID card
• Proof of Greek citizenship (if applicable)
• Proof of residence (utility bill, tax return)
• Passport (only for first-time applicants or those living abroad)
• Parental consent (for minors aged 12–17)
• Fee payment receipt

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Fees (2025)

Service	Fee (EUR)
Standard ID card (valid 10 years)	Free or €10
Lost/damaged/replacement card	€9–€13
Urgent reissuance (rare)	€26

Note: First issuance is generally free for citizens.

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Validity

• ID cards are valid for 10 years
• Cards issued before 2024 should be replaced by 2026 under new EU rules
• Citizens must renew the ID card if it’s damaged, lost, or outdated

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Is the Greek ID Card Valid for Travel?

Yes. The new Greek ID card is:

• Valid for travel across the EU and Schengen Area
• Accepted in several non-EU countries, such as Serbia, Albania, North Macedonia, Turkey (certain areas), Georgia, and Montenegro

For travel outside the EU/Schengen, a passport is still required.

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Digital Use and e-Government Access

The Greek ID card is integrated with Gov.gr and eIDAS systems:

• Allows secure online authentication
• Can be linked to digital signatures
• Supports access to eHealth, tax services, and public administration

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Lost or Stolen Card

If your ID card is lost or stolen:

1. Report it immediately to the police
2. Request a replacement ID at the issuing office
3. Submit a written declaration and pay the fee for reissuance

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Greek ID for Expats or Dual Citizens

Greek citizens living abroad can:

• Apply for or renew their ID at Greek consulates (if supported)
• Return to Greece to apply at a police station
• Use the ID as proof of nationality and request a passport separately

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Summary

The Greece ID Card is a modern, secure identity document required by all Greek citizens over 12 years of age. With biometric features, EU-compliant design, and travel validity within Europe, it’s essential for daily life, public services, and cross-border movement. Apply at your local police station and keep it current to ensure full access to your rights as a Greek citizen.

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Official Resources:

• Hellenic Police – Identity Cards
• Greek Government Portal – Gov.gr
• Ministry of Citizen Protection