Germany's ID card fees rise sharply from February 7, 2026
A nationwide rise in fees for national identity card applications will begin this weekend. From February 7, 2026, applicants will pay more due to higher production and administrative costs. Local authorities in Braunschweig, Peine, and Salzgitter have already confirmed the changes. The new pricing structure takes effect on February 7, 2026. Anyone submitting an application from February 8 onward will face the increased charges. For those aged 24 and older, the fee jumps to €46, up from €37. Younger applicants under 24 will now pay €27.60 instead of €22.80.
The adjustment follows a rise in costs linked to producing the IDs and running passport offices. Officials state the increase ensures these services remain financially sustainable. Despite the fee hike, the validity period of the identity cards stays the same: ten years for adults and six years for those under 24.
The changes apply to all applications submitted after the February 7 deadline. The higher fees reflect rising operational expenses but do not alter how long the cards remain valid. Applicants are advised to check updated pricing before submitting their forms.
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