Immigration
Going on holiday? The old ID card is no longer accepted. Know what changes
As of August 3, 2026, the old Portuguese Bilhete de Identidade (BI) is no longer valid for travel within the EU and the Schengen Area due to new EU security regulations requiring machine-readable zones. Holders must now use a valid Cartão de Cidadão or a passport for international travel, even if their old BI shows 'lifetime validity'.
Why it mattersIf you are a Portuguese national and still hold an old-style ID card, you can no longer use it to cross borders in the EU or Schengen Area; you must carry a valid Cartão de Cidadão or passport to avoid being denied boarding or entry.
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