Germany is, for now, the highly opted foreign country by Indians, be it because of the availability of meritorious universities or increased job opportunities. More than 10,000 Indians are shifting to this foreign country every year.
If you are also planning to enroll in German universities or work with a German company, then first, you need to be aware of their passport renewal process and rules. Then, you need to go through the rules stated for passport expiry durations, the renewal process, and how to apply for the renewals.
Passport renewals for Indians in Germany can be a complicated task for the first time. This is because the country has its own set of rules to be followed and it might seem tiring for an Indian diaspora to go through the same initially.
Why Indian Passport Renewal in Germany Can Be Confusing
There can be multiple reasons for passport renewals. It either can be in the case of
- Expired passport,
- Lost or stolen case,
- Exhaustion of pages,
- Damages or soiled passport,
- Due to the changes in personal details
- or if your passport is about to expire.
Passport renewals can come up for various reasons, such as an expired Indian passport, lost or stolen passport, exhaustion of pages, or changes in personal details. Indian passports generally have a validity of ten years for adults. To apply for a visa to Germany, your passport should meet specific criteria, like having at least three blank pages and an extended validity of at least three months from your departure date from Germany.
A Complete Guide on How to Get Indian Passport Renewal in Germany:
While the passport renewal process can appear daunting, especially for Indian nationals in Germany who are unfamiliar with the system, it can be a smooth experience if you adhere to the requirements and guidelines.
How Long Does it Take to Get a New Passport?
The average passport processing time in Germany is around 8-10 weeks, provided all document requirements are fulfilled and legal formalities are completed. For emergency passport renewal, the express option offers a processing time of 4-6 weeks.
Places to Get the Passport Renewal Forms:
Passport renewal forms can be acquired from the Indian Embassy Germany or the Consulate General of India in Germany. Online passport application is also available, and you can fill it out on the official website.
What are the Passport Renewal Fees?
In Germany, passport renewal fees are generally not too high:
- For individuals 24 years and older: 81 euros
- For individuals younger than 24 years: 58.50 euros
- Extra pages: 22 euros
- Temporary, one-year validity passports: 39 euros
- For children 12 years or younger: 26 euros
Payments can be made through bank transfers or cash at the consulate counter.
Where Can You Get Your Renewed Passports?
- There are three ways to get your passport:
- You can get the same via email,
- You can collect it from the Consulate,
- Or get it delivered to your doorstep as a part of the additional service offered.
Can You Fill an Online Application for Passport Renewal?
Passport renewal forms can be filled online at the official website of the Australian passport office.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply for an Indian Passport in Germany?
The list of documents required to fill renewal passport application is mentioned below. In addition, you need to get an original copy along with one photocopy for all of them.
- Application Form: Make sure to have your application form in hand if you submit the forms offline. In case of online submissions, download the passport application form for the same to attach when required.
- Passport Size Photo: You need to have two identical biometric recent passport size photos with you. Sample Photos for Passports PDF / 550 KB will let you know the rules for how the photos need to be for submissions.
- You need to get your previous original passports in hand with a data page and photo for submissions.
- VISA Copy.
- Meldebescheinigung Copy.
- Fee receipt.
To get your passport delivered by post, you need to submit a medium-sized self-addressed and stamped (EUR 4.05) envelope with your applications.
Tips For Making the Renewal Process Go Faster at the Indian Consulate:
- Keep all your documents mentioned above in hand along with one photocopy.
- Always make sure to get an appointment for the renewal process at Consulate.
- Convert all your files to pdf format before filling out the application forms.
- Complete all your related pending paperwork related to residence permit or address proof before making the appointments.
- Do not forget to check the information you have mentioned in your application form before submitting it.
- Read all the rules and regulations carefully to avoid any misunderstanding.
Conclusion:
Although the Indian passport renewal process in Germany may seem intricate, proper adherence to rules and legal formalities will simplify it. This guide aims to address the most common questions and challenges related to passport renewal in Germany for Indian nationals. By following these steps, you’re on the right path to a successful passport renewal experience.
Faqs
Q 1: Where can I renew my Indian passport in Germany?
Ans: You can renew your Indian passport at the Indian embassy in Berlin or the Consulate General offices in Frankfurt, Hamburg, or Munich.
Q 2: How long does it take to renew an Indian passport in Germany?
Ans: The processing time can vary, but it usually takes about 3-4 weeks. Some cases might require additional verification, leading to a longer processing time.
Q 3: What documents are needed for passport renewal?
Ans: Commonly required documents include your old passport, proof of residence in Germany, passport-sized photographs as per guidelines, and a completed application form. Additional documents may be required based on specific cases.
Q 4: Am I eligible to renew my passport online?
Ans: As of my last update in September 2021, online renewal is generally available but needs to be verified through an appointment at the embassy or consulate for document verification and biometric data capture.
Q 5: How much does it cost to renew an Indian passport in Germany?
Ans: The fee can vary based on the type of service requested and the number of pages in the new passport. Payment is generally accepted through bank transfer, debit card, or credit card.
Q 6: Can I pay the passport renewal fee online?
Ans: Usually, you can pay the fee online during the application process, but it’s best to check the most recent guidelines from the Indian embassy or consulate.
Q 7: What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen?
Ans: Report the loss to local German police and contact the nearest Indian embassy or consulate immediately. You will likely need to submit a police report along with your application for a new passport.
Q 8: Can I renew my passport if it has already expired?
Ans: Yes, you can still renew an expired passport, although additional documentation and fees may apply. It is advisable to renew your passport before it expires to avoid complications.
Q 9: How will I know when my new passport is ready?
Ans: You will generally be notified by email or phone when your new passport is ready for pickup. Some offices offer a tracking service through their website.
Q 10: Can I travel back to India with an expired passport?
Ans: Generally, you cannot travel with an expired passport. However, in emergency situations, the embassy or consulate may issue an Emergency Certificate allowing you to travel back to India.