Reisepass Kosten: A Guide to German Passport Fees
Obtaining a German passport is a crucial step for citizens who wish to travel internationally. The cost of a German passport varies depending on several factors, including the applicant’s age and the type of passport required. This guide breaks down the current fees associated with obtaining a German passport.
Standard German Passport (Biometric Passport)
The standard German passport, also known as the biometric passport or e-Passport, contains a microchip with the holder’s biometric data. This is the most common type of passport issued. The fees are as follows:
- Applicants 24 years and older: €70.00
- Applicants under 24 years: €37.50
The standard passport is valid for 10 years for applicants 24 years and older and 6 years for applicants under 24 years old.
Express Passport
If you require a passport urgently, you can apply for an express passport. This expedited service significantly reduces the processing time. However, it comes with an additional cost:
- Additional fee for Express Passport: €32.00 (on top of the standard passport fee)
With the express service, the passport is typically ready for collection within a few working days.
48-Page Passport
Frequent travelers may opt for a passport with 48 pages instead of the standard 32 pages. This provides extra space for visa stamps and entry/exit marks. The cost is:
- Additional fee for 48-page passport: €22.00 (on top of the standard passport fee)
Temporary Passport (Vorläufiger Reisepass)
In emergency situations where a standard passport cannot be issued in time, a temporary passport may be issued. This passport has a limited validity period and is not accepted by all countries. The fee for a temporary passport is:
- Temporary Passport: €26.00
It’s important to check the entry requirements of your destination country before relying on a temporary passport.
Other Potential Costs
Besides the passport fees themselves, there might be other related expenses to consider:
- Passport Photo: You will need a biometric passport photo. The cost varies depending on the photographer, but typically ranges from €10 to €20.
- Lost Passport Declaration (Verlustanzeige): If your passport is lost or stolen, you may need to file a police report. While filing the report is generally free, replacing the passport will incur the standard passport fee.
Payment Methods
Passport fees are typically payable in cash or by EC card (debit card) at the Bürgeramt (citizen’s office) where you apply. Credit cards are generally not accepted.
Important Notes
- Fees are subject to change. It’s always best to check the most up-to-date information on the official website of your local Bürgeramt or the Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt).
- Processing times can vary depending on the workload of the issuing authority. Applying well in advance of your travel date is always recommended.