Can I still use SPID or do I need the CIE?
Yes, SPID still works in 2026, but the system is shifting to the CIE. To access the Public Administration's online services (INPS, the Revenue Agency, town halls, healthcare) you need a digital identity: SPID, the CIE (Electronic ID Card) or the CNS (National Services Card/health card). In 2026, SPID is still valid and usable, but a gradual shift to the CIE is planned: some providers (e.g. Poste) are introducing an annual fee for SPID, while the CIE stays free and is issued by the State. You can already use the CIE instead of SPID to access services. The IT Wallet, the digital wallet that will gather citizens' identities and documents, is also coming. In short: today you can choose the tool you prefer, but it's wise to activate the CIE.
📋 The rules
- Access PA services with SPID, CIE or CNS
- In 2026 SPID is still valid and usable
- Gradual shift to the CIE (free, State-issued)
- Some SPID providers introduce an annual fee
- The IT Wallet (digital wallet) is on the way
🔓 Exceptions
- The CIE must first be 'activated' with the PIN/PUK codes for digital use
- Many services require a higher security level (app/reader)
- The paper ID card is no longer valid from 3 August 2026
⚠️ Penalties & fines
These aren't "sanctions": digital identity is a tool to access services. The practical risk is being left without access to online services if you don't have a valid identity, or being unprepared for the shift to the CIE. To avoid it, it's wise to activate the CIE (requesting the codes for digital use on issue or later) and keep an adequate-level identity to hand. Beware of scams: no serious body asks for SPID credentials or CIE codes by email or phone. Carefully guard your credentials and PINs and beware of messages asking to "reactivate" your digital identity (phishing).
📎 Official sources
- AgID · SPID and digital identity →
- Ministry of the Interior · Electronic ID Card (CIE) →
- Department for Digital Transformation · Digital identity and IT Wallet →
❓ Frequently asked
Does SPID still work in 2026?
Yes. In 2026 SPID is still valid and usable to access the Public Administration's online services. A gradual shift to the CIE is planned: the digital-identity system is evolving, but there's no sudden interruption of SPID.
Is SPID still free?
It depends on the provider. Some providers (e.g. Poste) are introducing an annual fee for SPID, while others may keep it free. The CIE, instead, is free in its digital use and only entails the cost of issuing or renewing the document.
Can I use the CIE instead of SPID?
Yes. The Electronic ID Card can be used instead of SPID to access the PA's online services, once activated with the provided codes. It's issued by the State, is free in digital use and is set to become the main digital-identity tool.
What is the IT Wallet?
It's citizens' digital wallet, coming, that will gather digital identity and documents (like the driving licence or health card) in a single app. It aims to simplify service access and document use, integrating with the CIE and digital identity.
How do I protect myself from digital-identity scams?
No serious body asks for SPID credentials or CIE codes by email, text or phone. Beware of messages inviting you to "reactivate" or "verify" your digital identity: they're often phishing attempts. Carefully guard credentials, PINs and codes and use only official sites.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
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