Obtaining a German passport for newborns with dual citizenship

Who is entitled to a German passport?

Every child who holds German citizenship – whether through a German parent or through naturalisation – is entitled to obtain a German passport.

Even if the child has dual nationality, e.g. German + Syrian/Turkish/Egyptian …, they are fully entitled to a German passport without any restrictions.

Types of passports for children

From 2024 onwards, the Kinderreisepass is being phased out in favour of the full biometric Reisepass.

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Which documents are required?

• German birth certificate (Geburtsurkunde)
  – Original + copy

• Parents’ passports or ID cards
  – To prove identity and nationality

• Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
  – Not always required, depends on the city/municipality

• Two biometric passport photos of the child
  – Must comply with German photo standards – even for infants!

• Application form (Antragsformular)
  – Usually has to be signed by both parents if they share custody

• Proof of custody (Sorgerechtserklärung) – where applicable
  – Especially for unmarried parents or in cases of sole custody

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Application steps

1. Book an appointment at the Bürgeramt (citizens’ office) or Passstelle (passport office) in the city where you live.

2. Attend the appointment together with the child – the child’s presence is mandatory, even for babies.

3. Submit all documents and pay the applicable fees.

4. A photo will be taken or existing biometric data will be checked (for children over 6 years of age).

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Processing time

• Biometric passport (Reisepass):
  – Usually 2 to 6 weeks
  – Sometimes faster if an express option is available

• Kinderreisepass (as long as it is still issued):
  – Often the same day or within 1–2 days

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Important notes for dual-nationality children

• The child can use the German passport when entering and leaving Germany.

• For travel to the other country of citizenship (e.g. Syria, Turkey, etc.), they can or should use the second passport of that country.

• Germany does not prohibit dual citizenship for children, but some other countries may have their own rules and requirements (e.g. military service, visa rules, registration duties).

• If travelling to a country that requires a visa for German citizens, it may be advisable to use the passport which allows easier or visa-free entry.

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The team of writers and editors of this website aims to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consultation of several sources. However, errors may occur or certain details may not be fully confirmed. For that reason, please treat the information in this article as an initial reference only, and always contact the competent authorities (e.g. Bürgeramt, passport office, consulate, border police) for binding, up-to-date information.