The eID card enables citizens of other European Union member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, to securely verify their identity electronically when using online services. With the online ID function, you can access digital services offered by government agencies and other providers and verify your identity online.

You can apply for the eID card regardless of whether you are a resident of Germany or whether your home country has its own electronic identification system. It is available to individuals who are at least 16 years of age. The online ID function offers the same electronic capabilities as the German national ID card or the electronic residence permit.

The eID card is not an identity document or travel document. It serves exclusively as electronic proof of identity. Certain data, such as your address, are stored on the card’s electronic storage medium.

In addition to issuing an eID card, changes can also be made to the stored data. This applies in particular to updating the address after a change of residence. Since the address is not printed on the card, the change is made exclusively on the eID card’s chip.