Identity documents - Family

Description

All details on applying for ID cards and passports can be found under "Forms & Links" under the relevant services.

You need an appointment to visit the Citizens Office. All family members who require new identity documents must apply in person.

Prerequisites

In principle, you can only apply for identity documents at the passport and identity card office at your main place of residence.

The only exception is for German citizens who live abroad, are visiting Munich and urgently need a new passport and/or identity card. In this exceptional case, you cannot book an appointment at a Citizens Office, as processing is centralised. For information on how to apply and make an appointment, please use the contact form.

The passport and ID card authority must check both the authorisation to apply and the authenticity of the signature. Please present the relevant identification documents (identity card, passport).

Identity documents for minors may only be applied for by persons who are authorised to determine the child's residence. The child must always be present when the application is made.

If both parents live with the child, it is sufficient for one parent to present a declaration of consent from the other parent.

If custodial parents live separately, only the parent with whom the child is registered as having their main residence may apply for the identity document. As a rule, the consent of the other parent is not required. In cases of doubt, further evidence must be provided.

If one parent has sole custody, they can apply for the identity document without the consent of the other parent, regardless of whether the parents live separately or together.

Required documents

• Identification documents (identity card, passport, children's passport - if available; original birth certificate for first-time applications; if applicable, identification documents of the person who is also attending the interview to confirm identity)
• biometric photographs of all family members who require a new passport and/or identity card
• For those under 16 years of age applying for an ID card: ID card or passport of all persons with parental authority
• For under 18-year-olds applying for a passport: identity card or passport of all persons with parental authority
• If necessary, declaration of consent from the absent parent

Important: In cases of doubt, the passport and identity card authority may request further documents (e.g. custody decisions, current civil status certificates, proof of German citizenship). In these cases, you may have to come in person a second time.