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🇩🇪 Germany

Reisepass

German Passport Application

Easy ~10 min PassportTravelIdentity

/ What is this form?

The Reisepass (German passport) is required for travel outside the EU/EEA. German citizens must apply in person at their local Bürgeramt. Processing takes 3–6 weeks; express service (2–3 business days) is available for an additional fee.

Adult passports are valid for 10 years; passports issued to people under 24 are valid for 6 years. First-time applicants must provide a birth certificate.

Since 2017, German passports include fingerprints stored on the chip. Children's passports do not include fingerprints.

/ Who needs this form?

  • German citizens traveling outside the EU or EEA
  • Anyone whose passport is expired or lost
  • Anyone whose passport expires within 6 months of planned travel
  • Children who need their own passport for travel

/ What you need before you start

Current ID or expired passport (or birth certificate for first application)
Biometric passport photo (35x45mm, frontal, neutral expression, no glasses)
Fee: €70 for adults, €37.50 for persons under 24
Bürgeramt appointment (must apply in person)

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Book Bürgeramt Appointment
Book an appointment at your local Bürgeramt online in advance — passport applications are in-person only.
2 Get Biometric Photo
Have a biometric photo taken (35x45mm, frontal, neutral expression, no glasses). Many photo shops offer this service.
3 Complete Application Form
Fill in the application form available at the Bürgeramt or online.
4 Attend Appointment
Bring your photo, current ID or expired passport, and fee (€70 adults / €37.50 under 24).
5 Wait and Collect
Standard processing takes 3–6 weeks. Express service (2–3 business days) costs an additional €32.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
Biometrisches Lichtbild 35x45mm photo, frontal, neutral expression, white or light background, no glasses, taken recently. Using an old photo or one that doesn't meet biometric requirements — the application will be rejected.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not having a biometric-compliant photo — this is the most common rejection reason.
Not booking an appointment in advance — walk-ins are rarely possible.
Applying too close to travel — standard processing takes 3–6 weeks.

/ Frequently asked questions

Can I get an express passport?

Yes. Express service takes 2–3 business days and costs an additional €32 on top of the standard fee.