Identity documents in Germany (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: German citizens aged 16 or over must hold an identity card or a valid passport, and show it on request. EU citizens may enter with an ID card or passport; British citizens need a passport.

RuleWhat applies
Duty to carry or show IDIdentity documentsMust show on request [1]
National ID card compulsory for citizensIdentity documentsNo [1]
ID duty for foreign visitorsIdentity documentsForeign nationals must show their passport, passport substitute or identity substitute to the immigration authorities on request, where needed for measures under the Residence Act. [2]
EU citizens may enter with a national ID cardIdentity documentsYes [3]
Document for British citizensIdentity documentsBritish citizens need a valid passport. It must have been issued less than 10 years before arrival and expire at least 3 months after the planned departure from the Schengen area. Entry is refused without a valid travel document. [4]

Notes

  • The Act requires the card to be shown on request to an authority entitled to check identity. The text does not say it must be carried at all times. A valid passport also meets the duty. The duty applies to German citizens from age 16.
  • German citizens aged 16 or over must hold an identity card or a valid passport. A passport is enough if it is shown on request.

Sources

  1. Bundesministerium der Justiz (gesetze-im-internet.de): Personalausweisgesetz (PAuswG) § 1 Ausweispflicht; Ausweisrecht (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Bundesministerium der Justiz (gesetze-im-internet.de): Aufenthaltsgesetz (AufenthG) § 48 Ausweisersatz und Mitwirkung bei der Feststellung der Identität (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. European Union (EUR-Lex): Directive 2004/38/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  4. UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (GOV.UK): Germany travel advice: Entry requirements (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.