New ID or passport required for travel abroad from August 3

As of August 3, Greek citizens traveling internationally must use updated identification, as the old blue-style national ID cards are no longer accepted. This change impacts all travel, including journeys within the Schengen Area, forcing citizens to present either a new-format national ID or a passport.

The transition has led to a significant increase in demand for appointments at the departments responsible for issuing new IDs. To manage the surge, authorities have extended the operating hours of these offices, aiming to facilitate the process for citizens needing to update their travel documents.

The new Greek national ID cards comply with European Union standards, ensuring their validity for travel across member states. The previous blue cards, issued under older regulations, have reached their expiration for international travel purposes.

Citizens are advised to check the validity and format of their identification well in advance of any planned travel to avoid disruptions. The extended hours are intended to alleviate the backlog and ensure that all citizens can obtain the necessary documentation before the travel season intensifies.