New ID card regulations. News. An ID card is something most of us always keep in our wallets. When it expires and we need a new one, we often have to deal with a lot of paperwork and visits to different offices. In Germany, new rules aim to make this process simpler by removing the need to go to the office again. However, these changes come with a big increase in costs. Starting in November 2024, the new regulations are meant to streamline the process, but they will also hit the wallets of German citizens harder than before.
New ID Card Regulations Coming Soon
The new law states that starting in 2025, German citizens will be able to order an ID card or passport for home delivery. This change will remove the need to go to an office to pick up the document, simplifying the process. The new system will roll out across Germany in May 2025, but it comes with a significant fee increase that citizens are not happy about.
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According to the Rheinische Post, those opting for postal delivery of their ID card or passport will face fees that are up to 65% higher than before. Currently, an ID card for individuals over 24 costs 37 euros, but under the new rules, that price will rise to 52 euros. For those under 24, the cost will increase from 22.80 euros to 37.80 euros for postal delivery, plus an additional shipping fee of 15 euros.
Why does shipping cost 15 euros?
The Ministry of the Interior justifies the shipping fee as “additional costs” associated with hiring a qualified supplier who meets specific security requirements for document delivery. Since identity documents must be delivered securely, this includes requiring a confirmation of receipt from the recipient. However, critics argue that a 15-euro shipping charge is too high.
The new system is expected to benefit citizens not only by offering more convenience but also financially. The Ministry estimates that about 2.4 million citizens will use this new service each year. With a delivery fee of 15 euros, this could generate approximately 36 million euros in revenue annually.