German Passport and Personalausweis Fees

How much does it cost to apply for a German passport for the first time? What is its validity period? And how much is it to renew a German passport?

This guide provides information on the costs associated with obtaining a German passport in 2025. It also includes advice on how to obtain an affordable, high-quality passport photo.

Table of contents

• Standard German passport fees
• Additional fees and surcharges
• German passport validity periods
• German Identity Card (Personalausweis) fees
• Fees for naturalization applicants in Germany
• German passport photo online
• German Passport Photo App
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Standard German passport fees

How much does it cost to get a passport in Germany? Here are the basic fees for obtaining a German passport:

• For adults aged 24 and over: EUR 70.00.
• The cost of a German passport for children or individuals under 24 is EUR 37.50.

The passport renewal price in Germany is the same as for the initial application.

Additional fees and surcharges

There are additional fees for the German passports:

• German passport expedited service, which delivers in approximately 4 to 6 working days instead of the usual 4 to 8 weeks: an extra EUR 32.00.
• A temporary passport, valid for 1 year: an additional EUR 26.00 on top of the standard fee.
• For the applicants residing outside Germany, the passport price includes an extra fee of up to EUR 70.00 for adults (24 years and older) and around EUR 37.50 for those under 24.
• How much is a new German passport with additional pages (a total of 48 pages)? An additional EUR 22.00 is charged on top of the standard fee.

German passport validity periods

German passports are valid for different durations based on age:

• Those aged 24 and older have a passport validity of 10 years.
• For individuals younger than 24, the passport is valid for 6 years.

The eID function is included and can be activated free of charge. An extra fee of EUR 32.00 applies if you request express processing.

German Identity Card (Personalausweis) fees

Starting May 1, 2025, the fees for the German Identity Card are:

• EUR 52.00 for applicants aged 24 and older.
• EUR 37.80 for those under the age of 24.

Fees for naturalization applicants in Germany

The costs for applying for German citizenship are standardized as follows:

• EUR 255 for each adult seeking citizenship.
• EUR 255 for each minor (under 18) applying independently.
• EUR 51 for each minor applying alongside their parents.

These fees are payable when you submit your application to the naturalization authority. In some cases, such as financial hardship or when multiple children apply together, fees may be lowered or waived. Additionally, installment payment options might be available based on individual situations and the authority’s discretion.

German passport photo online

With today’s smartphones and online photo tools, capturing your passport photo is more affordable and quicker than before. You can create a professional and compliant German passport photo through Visafoto.com, boasting a 99.7% approval rate. Visafoto has been generating passport, visa, and ID photos worldwide since 2013.

To use the service, take a photo against a plain white backdrop with your phone or camera and upload it to Visafoto.com. The tool will automatically adjust the background, tweak the resolution, correct colors, and crop the image to the required dimensions.

Here's an example of the photo you can upload:

You'll receive a digital version for online use and a print-ready format. If you’re unsatisfied with the photo, we'll replace it for free. A full refund is offered if the photo is rejected by officials.

German Passport Photo App

A great alternative for creating a compliant German passport photo is the 7ID App from Visafoto.com. This app lets you take and edit passport photos directly from an iPhone or Android device, making it a quick and cost-effective solution.

With 7ID, simply upload your photo, choose the document type and country, and the app automatically aligns your photo to match official standards, including size, format, and background. It ensures your face and eye line are centered correctly.

You'll get a digital file along with a print template, compatible with standard paper sizes like 4×6, A4, A5, or B5. Our technical support is available any time if you have questions or need help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a discount for students or low-income applicants?

Generally, no discounts are offered based on student status or income. However, some municipalities may waive or reduce fees in cases of proven financial hardship. You’ll need to inquire directly with your local Bürgeramt.

Why is the Personalausweis more expensive after age 24?

Because the validity increases from 6 years to 10 years for applicants aged 24+, the price reflects the longer usage period.

Do I have to pay the fee again if I lose my passport or ID?

Yes. If you lose your passport or Personalausweis, you’ll have to pay the full fee for a new one. Some cities may also add a small penalty for frequent loss or negligence.

Are passport photo fees included in the application price?

No, you’ll need to bring your own biometric passport photo that meets official German specifications.

Do fees differ between cities in Germany?

The base fees are standardized nationwide, but additional service charges (e.g., express service, lost document handling) may vary slightly by city or municipality.

Can I pay with a card at the Bürgeramt?

Most Bürgerämter accept EC card (debit card) payments, and some accept credit cards, but it’s best to check ahead. Cash payments are still accepted in most places.