Starting in 2025, Romania is introducing a series of important changes regarding the issuance and renewal of identity cards — commonly known as “buletin”. More specifically, these changes concern the introduction of the Electronic Identity Card (CEI) — a modern document equipped with a chip and digital functions — along with the option to continue using a simplified, chip-free version.
This article explains what’s new, the steps required for renewal, and what these changes mean for residents of Bucharest and beyond.

What’s new with the electronic ID card

The Electronic Identity Card (CEI) rollout began in a pilot phase on March 20, 2025, with a nationwide expansion planned within two months.
As of June 2, 2025, children under 14 years old are also eligible to apply for a CEI.
Alongside the electronic version, citizens can still choose the simple identity card (CIS), which comes without a chip for those who prefer a traditional format.
The new documents are similar in size to a bank card, comply with EU security standards, and allow digital access and electronic signature features (available only with the chip version).
Only the chip-equipped CEI can be used as a travel document within the EU, while the simplified version cannot serve this purpose.

Who needs to renew their ID card

According to the current legislation, citizens must renew their ID cards under specific conditions. If your identity document is based on the old format (without a chip) or is nearing its expiration date, you can request renewal.
 You may also voluntarily upgrade to the CEI format even if your old card is still valid.

It’s important to note that by August 3, 2031, all identity cards that do not meet the new EU requirements will become invalid.

Required documents and steps

• Before applying: check the official list of required documents (previous ID card, birth certificate, proof of payment/tax receipt if applicable, etc.).
• Complete the application form at your local identity registration office, booking an appointment online (most counties require online scheduling).
• During submission: biometric data (fingerprints) are collected, along with facial photographs, handwritten signatures, and other data to be stored electronically in the chip (for CEI holders).
• For the simple version (CIS): the process is similar, but no biometric data is stored and there are no digital functions.

Costs and validity

• For adult citizens, the first electronic identity card (CEI) is free of charge, within the funding limits provided by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
• For children under 14, the applicable fee for CEI issuance is 67 lei.
• The validity period depends on the holder’s age — shorter for minors, longer for adults and teenagers.

Check HERE for online availability and appointment scheduling!

What to know if you live in Bucharest

• Check online availability for appointments through official platforms — in the first CEI rollout phase, appointment slots were quickly filled.
• If you choose CEI: be prepared to provide biometric data (fingerprints), a photo, signature, and other personal details.
• If you choose CIS: this is still a valid option but cannot be used for travel outside Romania.
• Appointments must be booked online, and you must appear in person at the designated office on the scheduled date.
• If your current ID is close to expiring, it’s best to schedule in advance, especially in major cities where demand is high.
• Keep the payment receipt (if applicable) and follow the steps indicated by the population records service.

Key benefits of the new electronic ID card

• Modern design, compact and practical — similar to a bank card.
• Enhanced security: includes a chip, biometric data, and digital certificates — making it harder to forge.
• Usable as a travel document in the EU and Schengen Area (chip version only).
• Enables access to e-government services and allows the use of an electronic signature.

Disadvantages and limitations of the electronic ID card

While the CEI represents a major step toward administrative modernization, it still comes with several technical and practical challenges. Some relate to system integration, others to data protection and renewal logistics.

Main disadvantages include:

• Partial compatibility with certain systems: some institutions and private entities cannot yet fully read the data stored in the chip; for instance, the home address is not printed on the card but stored electronically.
• Data protection concerns: even though the information is securely stored on the chip, there are public concerns about the management of personal data within the government’s digital infrastructure (MAI cloud).
• Reissuance required for updates: major changes, such as a new address, can only be made by issuing a new CEI, not by updating the existing one.
• Short validity in special cases: if all fingerprints cannot be collected, the CEI is issued with a one-year validity, requiring more frequent renewals.

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Overall, these limitations do not outweigh the advantages of digitalization but highlight the need for time, adaptation, and system interoperability improvements.

If you need to renew your ID card or want to take advantage of the new 2025 options, now is the time to decide which version suits you best — the chip-based electronic ID (CEI) or the simplified version (CIS). The renewal process is more modern and secure, with clear benefits for digital access and travel, but it’s essential to make an informed choice.
For Bucharest residents, it’s recommended to book your appointment online early, prepare all necessary documents, and select the option that best fits your needs.