Apply for an eID card for EU and EEA nationals

Since 01.01.2021, citizens of the European Union (EU) and nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA)have been able to apply for a card with an electronic identity verification function (eID card).

Prerequisites

• Possession of a nationality of a member state of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA)
• not be a German citizen within the meaning of Article 116 (1) of the Basic Law
• Applicant must be at least 13 years old
• Main residence in Jena

Period of validity

The eID card is issued for a period of validity of 10 years. An extension is not permitted. When the validity period expires, a new eID card can be applied for.

Loss, theft

The loss or theft of a valid eID card must be reported in writing or in person. If it has already been reported to the police, please bring the duplicate with you.

Application

Applications must be submitted in person. Authorization is not permitted. Young people who are at least 13 years old may submit the application alone. Your personal PIN number for the document for the online ID function (eID function) will be given to you when you submit your application.

Collection or direct mailing

Collection

The letter notification about the completion of the document has been discontinued since 17.02.2025. However, you have the option of entering an e-mail address for notification of completion and the option to collect the document when you submit your application.

If you still have an old eID card, you must hand it in when you collect the new eID card.

The produced eID card will be issued at the central registration desk on the first floor.

Representation during collection

You can be represented at the collection point. The card can be issued to a person authorized by the applicant; this person must identify themselves by presenting a valid identity card (from an EU or Schengen area country) or a valid passport (other countries). To authorize another person to collect your document, please use the form under Downloads.

Direct mailing

On request, your completed document can be delivered exclusively to your main residence in Germany for a fee (see fees). The shipment will only be handed over to you personally.

Passports can be sent from your 18th birthday. ID cards and eID cards can be sent from the 16th birthday. ID documents for children or persons in care as well as express passports can only be collected from the authority.

You will need your valid photo ID (ID card or passport) for handover at the front door or at the post office (after an unsuccessful first delivery attempt) in order to identify yourself when receiving the item and to avoid errors when handing it over. The old eID card will be withdrawn at the time of application and can no longer be used.

The direct mailing option must be specified when applying for the new document; the Citizen Service staff will be happy to advise you.

• valid foreign identity card (of an EU or Schengen area country) or valid passport (other countries)
• if available, the previous eID card

• Act on a card for EU citizens and nationals of the European Economic Area with electronic proof of identity function ( eID Card Act - eIDKG)