By the end of November 2026, Cyprus is expected to complete the technical changes to a system that will allow citizens to choose whether to include their parents’ first and last names on the new biometric ID card. Cards that have already been issued without this information will be replaceable free of charge.
What will change in the new ID cards?
The changes concern the new biometric identity cards issued in Cyprus. Initially, they did not include the first and last names of the holder’s parents. This decision prompted objections from some citizens and was also discussed by political parties.
At the end of July 2026, the Cyprus Ministry of the Interior explained that parents’ details are not among the mandatory information that must appear on an identity card. The ministry also referred to EU rules and standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization. At the same time, the ministry decided to give citizens a choice. The system must now be technically modified so that, when applying for a new ID card, a person can choose whether or not to include their parents’ first and last names.
When will the new system start working?
In mid-September 2026, the contractor informed the Minister of the Interior that technical work on the system had already begun. According to the company, the work should take two months and be completed no later than the end of November 2026. After that, the ministry will separately inform citizens when the new option becomes available and how to use it.
If someone has already received a new biometric ID card without their parents’ first and last names, they will be able to replace the document once the technical work is completed.
To do so, they will need to bring the already issued card to a Citizen Service Center (KEP) or a District Administration office. The replacement will be free of charge.
What is important to know about the new ID cards in Cyprus?
The new identity cards are biometric. Applicants must appear in person so that a photograph, fingerprints and signature can be collected. For Cypriot citizens over the age of 12, having an identity card is mandatory. The standard cost of issuing or renewing an ID card is currently €30 for adults and €20 for minors.
However, replacing an already issued card specifically to add parents’ details will be free of charge under the new decision by the Ministry of the Interior. Those who have already received a new Cypriot ID card without their parents’ details do not need to apply for a replacement immediately. They should wait until the technical work is completed and the Ministry of the Interior publishes official instructions.