Personalausweis & Reisepass — Costs and Application

Who Gets Personalausweis and Who Gets eAT

Personalausweis (German ID card) is issued to German citizens — if you complete Einbürgerung, you'll get one too. Non-EU citizens don't have Personalausweis: their identity is confirmed by a national passport plus an electronic residence permit (eAT). German documents are submitted at the Bürgeramt responsible for your registered address, so first complete registration at your new place of residence.

Fees from 07.02.2026

The fee increase from February 2026 applies only to Personalausweis — Reisepass fees remain unchanged. Both documents are valid for 10 years (under 24 — 6 years).

Documents and Processing Time

You'll need a biometric photo (35 × 45 mm, not older than 6 months) and your previous document (for first application — birth certificate). Processing time: Personalausweis approximately 3–4 weeks, Reisepass approximately 3–6 weeks (express faster), temporary document issued immediately.

eAT Fees for Foreigners

Instead of Personalausweis, you'll receive an eAT (card in check format). As a rough guide: first Aufenthaltserlaubnis approximately €100, Niederlassungserlaubnis €113–147 (depending on purpose of stay), renewal approximately €93–96. Minors pay 50%. eAT has eID functionality — it's worth activating when you pick it up.