Still carrying an old booklet-style Hungarian ID card? From 3 August 2026, these documents will no longer be valid under EU rules. Thousands of residents may need to apply for a new eID card, and no personal notifications will be sent. Here’s what you need to know before the deadline.
Hungary’s old booklet ID cards to become invalid in August
Hungary’s old-style booklet-format identity cards will permanently lose their validity on 3 August 2026, in line with European Union regulations, the Ministry of the Interior has announced.
The change affects the older paper-based identity documents that were issued without an expiry date and remained valid indefinitely. From August, these documents will no longer be accepted as proof of identity, according to the Hungarian News Agency.
Authorities are urging affected citizens to check their documents as soon as possible, as no individual notifications will be sent regarding the expiry.
No personal reminders will be issued
According to the Ministry of the Interior, the expiry of the documents will be automatically recorded in official registers. As a result, citizens who still possess only the old booklet-style identity card will not receive personalised letters, emails or other reminders.
Officials therefore recommend that anyone unsure about the status of their identification documents verify them without delay.
Who needs to apply for a new ID card?
Citizens whose only form of identification is the old booklet-format ID card must apply in person for a new electronic identity card (eSzemélyi) at any government service centre (kormányablak).
The electronic identity card has become the standard identification document in Hungary and contains modern security features that comply with EU requirements.
Who is exempt?
According to 24.hu, obtaining a new identity card is not mandatory for people who already possess another valid official identification document, such as:
- a card-format driving licence;
- a valid Hungarian passport.
However, the ministry noted that obtaining a new identity card is still recommended to ensure smoother administration and identification procedures.
Free replacement for citizens over 70
The government confirmed that the issuance of a permanent identity card remains free of charge for citizens aged 70 and above.
This measure is intended to make the transition easier for elderly residents who are among the most likely to still possess the older documents.
Special assistance available for those unable to travel
The ministry also addressed citizens who are unable to appear in person for health reasons.
Individuals who have medical documentation proving that they cannot visit a government office are encouraged to contact their competent county government office. Authorities can arrange mobile administrative services to help eligible residents complete the application process.
Authorities warn against waiting until the last minute
With demand for administrative services typically increasing during the summer months, the Ministry of the Interior is asking affected residents not to postpone replacing their documents until the final days before the deadline.
Officials warn that longer waiting times may be expected as the 3 August deadline approaches and encourage everyone concerned to obtain valid identification well in advance.
For many citizens, the change will have no practical impact. However, those still relying solely on Hungary’s old booklet-format identity cards should take action soon to avoid finding themselves without a valid form of identification after August.
Another ID document was phased out not long ago: Major Hungarian ID card to be phased out: What is the government up to?
