Children need an identity document when travelling abroad. There are various options for children with German citizenship. Depending on the destination, these are
- Passport
- Identity card as a substitute for a passport
Please note: For some destinations, a passport is required for the child. This is the case, for example, for South East Asia and for visa-free entry to the USA. However, children can also enter many countries with an identity card or, if applicable, a child's passport, as long as it is still valid. This applies in particular to the countries of the European Union (EU). You can find travel and safety information for all countries on the website of the Federal Foreign Office. Under "Entry requirements for German nationals" you can find out for which countries a passport is required or an identity card is sufficient.
Passports can be issued to children from birth and are valid for six years for under 24-year-olds.
In the following cases, a passport is invalid before the expiry date:
- if it does not allow the child's identity to be established properly because the photograph in the document differs greatly from the child's face. The point in time must be assessed in each individual case.
- if it has been altered.
- if entries are missing or incorrect with the exception of the place of residence.
Tip: In urgent cases, you can apply for a passport using the express procedure. If you need a travel document for your child until the new express passport is issued, you can apply for a temporary passport. The temporary passport is valid for a maximum of one year. You must return it when you receive the new passport.