You can apply for a passport or identity card (electronic proof of identity function from the age of 16) for your child with German citizenship - regardless of age. Both are valid for 6 years for persons under the age of 24. Identity cards are recognized as travel documents in the EU and are sufficient for both adults and children. The passport allows visa-free travel for tourist purposes to over 170 countries worldwide. It is advisable to base the decision on an ID document for children on their use or travel behavior, as ID is only mandatory from the age of 16.
The application of minors for a passport must be approved in writing by both parents (as long as they have joint custody and live together). In the case of unmarried or divorced parents, consent can be given by the parent to whom the family court has granted sole parental custody of the child. The decision of the family court must be submitted with the application. The application can be made by only one parent if the consent of the other parent is confirmed in writing, a copy of the identity card of the other parent with custody is presented and there is no doubt as to the accuracy of this information.
The child must always appear in person, as their identity must be verified. They must also sign if they are 10 years or older at the time of the passport application. It is also permissible for younger children to sign.
From the age of 7, fingerprints must be taken for the issue of a passport for minors.
It is not possible to change the child's personal details (e.g. a change of name) in the passport. In these cases, a new passport must be applied for if necessary.
Direct mailing is not available for travel documents for children.
Please note:
Please find out about the specific entry requirements of your destination country and the required identification documents in good time before you travel. Information on this can be found in the travel and security advice issued by the Federal Foreign Office (https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/)
You can apply for a passport or identity card (electronic proof of identity function from the age of 16) for your child with German citizenship - regardless of age. Both are valid for 6 years for persons under the age of 24. Identity cards are recognized as travel documents in the EU and are sufficient for both adults and children. The passport allows visa-free travel for tourist purposes to over 170 countries worldwide. It is advisable to base the decision on an ID document for children on their use or travel behavior, as ID is only mandatory from the age of 16.
The application of minors for a passport must be approved in writing by both parents (as long as they have joint custody and live together). In the case of unmarried or divorced parents, consent can be given by the parent to whom the family court has granted sole parental custody of the child. The decision of the family court must be submitted with the application. The application can be made by only one parent if the consent of the other parent is confirmed in writing, a copy of the identity card of the other parent with custody is presented and there is no doubt as to the accuracy of this information.
The child must always appear in person, as their identity must be verified. They must also sign if they are 10 years or older at the time of the passport application. It is also permissible for younger children to sign.
From the age of 7, fingerprints must be taken for the issue of a passport for minors.
It is not possible to change the child's personal details (e.g. a change of name) in the passport. In these cases, a new passport must be applied for if necessary.
Direct mailing is not available for travel documents for children.
Please note:
Please find out about the specific entry requirements of your destination country and the required identification documents in good time before you travel. Information on this can be found in the travel and security advice issued by the Federal Foreign Office (https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/)