EEA identity card - what is it?
An EEA ID card can be used as a travel document. In this country tip we will explain in which countries this is recognized and how you apply for it.
EEA ID card: that's the reason
The abbreviation "EEA" denotes the term "European Economic Area". For travel within the EU, a travel document, i.e. the EEA ID card or passport, must always be presented. Photo IDs such as a driver's license are not sufficient for legitimate legitimation.
- It is therefore simply the usual ID card if you are a citizen of the EEA countries. With a German ID card, for example, you also have an EEA ID card.
- A total of 32 countries still belong to the EEA countries. This includes the EU member states such as France, Austria, Croatia etc. but also the member states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). That includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Switzerland is not part of the European economic area.
Apply for ID cards: you have to be aware of that
If you are under the age of 24, the identity card costs EUR 22.80 and is valid for six years. After that, it costs six euros more, but is still valid for 10 years. The fees for the ID card differ when choosing a civil office outside of the main place of residence.
- The application for an identity card must be submitted personally to the Citizens' Registration Office. You can also make an appointment online at many citizens' offices.
- Children must also be present when the application is submitted, since the identity must be checked. However, the application must be made by a legal guardian.
- You can find out which documents you need to bring with you to identify yourself on the respective website of the Citizens' Office. As a rule, you should take a valid identity document with you (the old identity card if available, otherwise the passport, children's ID, children's passport). You also need a current biometric photo.
- The ID card is then ready for collection after about two weeks. There is also the possibility to take a temporary identity card with you for a fee of 10 euros.
- If you change your name, you must apply for a new identity card. If the address is not changed. The new address will be noted on the back of the ID card with an address label and the ID card chip will be changed free of charge.
If your ID card has expired, the next practical tip will tell you how and where you can get a new one.