What is an electronic Residence permit (eAT)?
The electronic Residence permit has existed in Germany since September 1, 2011. It replaces the Residence permit sticker previously affixed to the national passport of the home country and offers numerous advantages, similar to the ID card. To get you started, let's take a look at the most important information about the electronic Residence permit.
Definition and overview
The electronic Residence permit (eAT) is a digital document in credit card format that contains biometric data such as fingerprints and a digital photo in addition to the usual information. It serves as proof of the right of residence in Germany and enables secure identity verification. The eAT also contains the work permit and is proof of permission to work.
Differences to conventional residence permits
In contrast to the previous Residence permit stickers, the eAT offers additional functions such as the online ID function, which enables secure and simple confirmation of identity on the Internet. The eAT is also more forgery-proof and durable.
Advantages of the electronic residence permit
The electronic Residence permit considerably simplifies the everyday life of foreigners in Germany. It not only offers improved security through the storage of biometric data, but also enables simple and fast identity verification when dealing with authorities and online services. In addition, the eAT can be used efficiently thanks to its compatibility with modern administrative systems.
Requirements for the electronic Residence permit
In order to obtain an electronic Residence permit (eAT), certain requirements and criteria must be met. This section gives you an overview of the requirements and the necessary documents.
Who is authorized?
Anyone who is not German in accordance with Art. 116 of the Basic Law or is not a citizen of the EU or EEA (Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway) requires an electronic Residence permit. Authorized persons include:
- Holders of a residence permit
- Holders of a Blue Card according to § 18b AufenthG
- Holders of an EU Blue Card according to § 18g AufenthG
- Holders of a Settlement permit according to § 9 AufenthG
- Holders of an EU permanent residence permit according to § 9a AufenthG
Necessary documents and evidence
Various documents and proofs must be submitted to apply for the electronic residence permit. The required documents include
- Valid passport: Proof of identity
- Biometric passport photo: Current photo in accordance with German passport photo requirements
- Proof of residence: confirmation of registration or rental agreement
- Proof of health insurance: Confirmation of existing health insurance
- Proof of financial means: proof of income or employment contract
- Further specific proof: Depending on the reason for residence (e.g. certificate of study, work permit)
Requirements and criteria
To obtain an electronic Residence permit , applicants must meet certain criteria:
Secured livelihood: Proof of sufficient financial means to cover living expenses
No previous convictions: Proof of a clean criminal record
Health insurance: Proof of existing health insurance
Entry with a national visa: It must be clear that the entry was made with a national visa.
The process of applying for the eAT
Applying for an electronic residence permit (eAT) is a clearly structured process. This section provides detailed step-by-step instructions and explains the differences between applying online and in person. Important deadlines and dates are also explained.
Step-by-step instructions
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the electronic residence permit:
Step 1: Preparation of the required documents:
- Passport
- Biometric passport photo
- Proof of residence
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of income or employment contract
- Required visa or proof of entry (visa or visa-free)
Step 2: Making an appointment:
- Make an appointment with the responsible Foreigners' office.
- This can often be done online, by e-mail or by telephone.
Step 3: Application:
- Show up in person at the agreed appointment.
- Submit all required documents and have your biometric data recorded (fingerprints and photo).
Step 4: Receipt of the PIN letter:
- After submitting your application, you will receive a PIN letter by post.
- This contains the access data for activating your electronic residence permit.
Step 5: Activation of the eAT:
- Use the information contained in the PIN letter to activate your eAT.
Step 6: Collecting the eAT:
- Once your eAT has been successfully checked and issued, you can collect it from Foreigners' office .
Important deadlines and dates
The following deadlines and dates must be observed when applying for an electronic residence permit:
Step | Period |
|---|---|
Making an appointment | Immediately after deciding on the eAT |
Application | Depending on availability of dates |
Receipt of the PIN letter | Usually 4-6 weeks after application |
Activation of the eAT | Within 1-2 weeks of receiving the PIN letter |
Collecting the eAT | 4-6 weeks after application |
Online application vs. personal visit
You can apply for an electronic residence permit either online or in person. Here are the differences:
Online application:
Advantages:
- Conveniently from home
- Appointments can be made and documents submitted online
Disadvantages:
- Personal interview for biometric data collection still required
Personal consultation:
Advantages:
- Direct contact with the authorities
- Possibility of immediate clarification of questions
Disadvantages:
- Necessity of an appointment and personal appearance
Activation and use of the electronic residence permit
Once you have received the electronic Residence permit (eAT), it is important to activate it and familiarize yourself with how to use it. In this section, you will learn how to activate the eAT, use the online ID function and what security measures need to be observed.
Activation of the eAT
Activating the electronic residence permit is an essential step in order to be able to use all functions. Here are instructions on how to activate it:
Step 1: Receipt of the PIN letter:
- After submitting your application, you will receive a PIN letter by post.
- The letter contains the PIN, PUK and blocking password for your eAT.
Step 2: Installing the software:
- Download the software required to activate the eAT from the official website (e.g. AusweisApp2).
- Install the software on your computer or smartphone.
Activation steps:
- Open the software and follow the instructions for activation.
- Enter the PIN contained in the PIN letter.
- Select a new, personal PIN.
Test of the online ID function:
- After activation, you can test the online ID function to ensure that everything is working correctly.
Use of the online ID function
The electronic Residence permit offers a practical online ID function that gives you many advantages. Here are some of the options:
Administrative procedures:
- Identity verification for online services from public authorities.
- Simple login and authentication for administration portals.
Banking transactions:
- Secure identity verification for online banking and financial services.
Conclusion of contracts:
- Use of the eID function for the secure conclusion of contracts and registrations with service providers.
Safety and protective measures
The security of your electronic residence permit is of the utmost importance. Please observe the following protective measures:
Secure PIN:
- Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess and cannot easily be associated with you.
Secure handling of the PIN letter:
- Keep the PIN letter in a safe place and never pass on the information it contains to third parties.
Loss and theft:
- If your eAT is lost or stolen, report this to the authorities and, in the event of theft, report it to the police and take it to the authorities.
- Use the blocking password contained in the PIN letter to block the eAT.
Regular review:
- Regularly check the functions of the eAT and ensure that no unauthorized changes have been made.
Practical tips and frequently asked questions
Various questions and situations can arise when dealing with the electronic Residence permit (eAT). In this section, we give you practical tips and answer frequently asked questions to make your everyday life with the eAT easier.
What to do in the event of loss or theft?
The loss or theft of your electronic residence permit is a serious matter. Here are the steps you should take:
Immediate blocking:
- Use the blocking password from the PIN letter to block your eAT immediately.
- Contact the 24/7 blocking hotline or the responsible Foreigners' office.
Report to the police:
- File a report of loss or theft with the local police station. In the event of a theft report, it is important that you inform the authorities of the report once it has been filed.
New application:
- Apply for a new electronic Residence permit at Foreigners' office .
- Prepare the necessary documents for the reissue.
Extension and renewal of the eAT
The electronic proof of identity has a limited validity and must be extended or renewed in good time. Here are the steps for extension and renewal:
Early preparation:
- Start the renewal process at least three months before your current eAT expires. This will avoid any difficulties when applying for a new eAT
Appointments can be made:
- Make an appointment with the responsible Foreigners' office to extend your eAT.
Required documents:
- Prepare the necessary documents, which are similar to those for the initial application (passport (passport replacement), supporting documents, etc.).
Application:
- Submit all the documents required for issuing the eAT to Foreigners' office and have your biometric data updated.
Period of validity:
- Please note that the eAT card is valid for a maximum of 10 years. It is therefore important to renew it in good time.
Step | Period/action |
|---|---|
Early preparation | At least 3 months before the eAT expires |
Making an appointment | Make an appointment at Foreigners' office |
Required documents | Prepare all necessary documents |
Application | Submit documents and update biometric data |
Period of validity | eAT card valid for a maximum of 10 years |
Tips for problem-free use in everyday life
To be able to use the electronic Residence permit in everyday life without any problems, follow the tips below:
Secure storage:
- Store your eAT safely, preferably in a protective cover to prevent damage.
Regular review:
- Check the functionality of your eAT regularly and look out for possible damage.
Keep your PIN safe:
- Memorize your PIN and keep the PIN letter in a safe place.
Updating personal data:
- Inform the residents' registration office immediately of any changes to your personal data, such as address or marital status. The office will affix an address sticker and send the change of address digitally to Foreigners' office. The same applies to marital status.
Residence permit | No language certificate |
|---|---|
Secure storage | Use protective cover, protect from damage |
Regular review | Check functionality and possible damage |
Keep your PIN safe | Remember PIN, keep PIN letter safe |
Updating personal data | Report changes to the residents' registration office |
Conclusion on the electronic Residence permit
The electronic Residence permit (eAT) offers numerous advantages and considerably simplifies residence in Germany. Here we summarize the most important points for you and take a look at the future development of the eAT.
Summary of the topic
Introduction and purpose:
- Since September 1, 2011, the electronic Residence permit has replaced the previous sticker in the national passport.
- It is similar in appearance and functionality to the ID card.
Requirements and authorization:
- Anyone who is not a German citizen under Art. 116 of the Basic Law or a citizen of the EU or EEA requires an electronic Residence permit.
- Prerequisites are possession of a residence permit, a Blue Card, a Settlement permit or permanent residence.
Application process:
- The process for you to apply for the electronic Residence permit includes preparing the documents, making an appointment, submitting the application, receiving the PIN letter, activating and collecting the eAT.
- The application can be made online or in person.
Activation and use:
- After receiving the PIN letter, activation takes place by installing the software and entering the PIN.
- The eAT enables the use of the online ID function for dealing with authorities, banking transactions and concluding contracts.
- Use of the online function is voluntary and not mandatory.
Security and protection:
- The eAT offers a high level of security thanks to biometric data and is valid for a maximum of 10 years.
- If the eAT is lost or stolen, it should be blocked immediately and a new application made.
The future of the electronic residence permit
Further development of the functions:
- Future expansion of the functions for digital identity verification and integration into other online services.
Technological improvements:
- Improved security technology and more user-friendly applications.
Expansion of acceptance:
- Greater acceptance of the eAT in various areas such as healthcare, education and mobility.
Legal adjustments:
- Adjustments to the legal framework and greater integration of citizen feedback.
FAQ - The most frequently asked questions about the electronic Residence permit
The electronic Residence permit (eAT) is a chip card that contains personal data as well as biometric features such as fingerprints. It is used for identity verification and enables the use of the online ID function.
After receiving the PIN letter, install the required software, enter the PIN you received and choose a new personal PIN. This activates your eAT.
The electronic Residence permit is valid for a maximum of 10 years. The validity is always linked to the purpose
No, the eAT is collected from Foreigners' office after the application has been submitted and biometric data has been recorded.
After three years, people who have provided proof of a C1 language certificate and special integration achievements can be naturalized. Special integration achievements include
- Voluntary work (volunteer fire department)
- Professional achievements with proof of your job
- School and vocational qualification achievements
It usually takes 4-6 weeks to process and issue the eAT.
