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Emergency

Applying for an express passport: travel quickly

When the trip is approaching and the passport is missing or expired, there are faster routes than the standard procedure. Depending on urgency, an express passport or an immediately handed-over provisional passport come into consideration.

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Your chances of getting your money back

Besides the regular passport, an express passport with a shortened production time can be applied for. For very short-notice trips there is the provisional passport, which is issued directly at the citizens' office.
Not every destination country accepts the provisional passport without restriction, for example there are special requirements for entry into the USA. Check the entry requirements of the destination country in time.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Assess the urgency

    Clarify how much time remains until the trip in order to choose the right variant.

  2. 2

    2. Secure an appointment

    Arrange an appointment at the citizens' office or passport authority as soon as possible.

  3. 3

    3. Bring documents

    A biometric photo, the old passport and the identity card speed up processing.

  4. 4

    4. Check the destination country

    Make sure that your passport type is accepted for the destination country.

How to spot the scam

  • You rely on the provisional passport without checking the entry rules.
  • The appointment is arranged too late, so that even express is not enough.
  • The biometric passport photo does not meet the requirements.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly do I get an express passport?

The express passport is produced with a shortened production time and is usually available after a few business days. If you need a document immediately, the provisional passport is the fastest option, issued directly at the office.

Is the provisional passport accepted everywhere?

Not necessarily. Some countries accept it only with restrictions or require an electronic passport. Before the trip, check the official entry requirements of the destination country to avoid problems on entry.

What does an express passport cost?

For express issuance a surcharge is added to the normal passport fee. The exact amounts are set by the federal government and municipalities. Ask the citizens' office about the current fees for express and provisional passports.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.