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Germany Moves to Raise ID Card Fees as Interior Ministry Launches Rulemaking

The move follows rising charges at the Bundesdruckerei.

Overview

  • The Interior Ministry confirmed a regulatory process to increase Personalausweis fees, with no new price or start date disclosed.
  • Municipal offices have paid about €4.90 more per document to the federal printer since August 1, and officials indicate part of that cost will shift to residents to limit local budget strain.
  • Standard fees remain €37 for adults with a ten-year validity and €22.80 for under‑24s with a six-year validity.
  • Since May 1, only digital biometric photos are accepted, adding roughly €6 when the image is taken at the registration office.
  • Germany already ranks near the top of EU ID costs, and coverage notes applicants may save by applying before any increase takes effect.