Spain to end ‘permanent’ ID cards by 2031 « Euro Weekly News

Spanish citizens who still hold the so-called ‘permanent’ National Identity Card (DNI) will soon need to renew it, as the European Union sets a deadline for bringing all ID documents in line with new security rules.

The government has confirmed that anyone with one of these cards – which were traditionally given to people over 70 or those with a recognised severe disability — must renew them before August 3 2031. After that date, they’ll no longer be valid.

The change comes after the EU approved regulation 2019/1157, which aims to unify ID formats across member states and make them more secure.

Why permanent IDs are being phased out

The so-called ‘permanent’ DNI has existed for years, designed to save older citizens or those with mobility issues the trouble of renewing their ID every few years. It carried no expiry date and was meant to be valid for life.

But that will now change. In a written response to a question from Senator José Antonio Monago (PP), the government confirmed that these permanent documents will have to be replaced by new versions that meet EU standards.

The rule mainly affects cards issued between 1990 and 2006, many of which don’t include biometric data or updated security features. According to the EU regulation, any ID cards that don’t comply must expire by 3 August 2031 at the latest.

How to renew your ID card

The good news is that those affected don’t need to wait until the last minute. Holders of permanent DNIs can renew their card at any time before the deadline, and the process is simple – no appointment is needed.

Once updated, the new DNI for citizens over 70 will no longer say ‘permanent.’ Instead, it will show an expiry date written as “01-01-9999”, a symbolic way of maintaining the idea of lifetime validity while still meeting EU formatting rules.

The new cards also come with digital features, allowing users to sign documents or verify their identity online, making it easier to handle official procedures electronically.

Why renewing early might be a good idea

The change was brought into focus after reports that a passenger was prevented from boarding a flight because their permanent ID wasn’t accepted. While the card remains valid for domestic use in Spain, it may not be recognised abroad or by some airlines, particularly for Schengen travel.

For that reason, officials are encouraging citizens to renew sooner rather than later, especially if they travel or use their DNI for digital purposes.

This update is part of the EU’s wider effort to modernise and harmonise ID systems, ensuring greater consistency and security across all member countries.

Spain’s current Royal Decree 255/2025, in effect since April 1, sets a validity of “more than 10 years” for DNIs issued to people over 70 — fully aligning Spain with EU law while keeping the system practical for older citizens.

So while there’s no rush, those holding a “permanent” DNI should mark August 2031 on their calendars. After that, the old cards will be history.

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