Get Your Austrian Id Card: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to get your hands on an Austrian ID card, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, an ID card serves as proof of both citizenship and identity, and it's a popular choice due to its convenient check card format. The process usually takes between 3 to 6 weeks, and you can apply for it in person or, in some cases, book an appointment over the phone. When applying, you'll need to bring several documents, including a completed application form, a passport photo, and your Austrian passport if it's your first time applying for the ID card. The ID card will be valid for ten years, after which you'll need to renew it, and it can be used as a travel document when travelling within the EU and the Schengen area.

Required documents for a first-time application

To get an Austrian ID card for the first time, you must be an Austrian citizen and meet specific requirements. The application process involves submitting several documents and paying the associated fees. Here is a detailed breakdown of the necessary steps and documents:

Firstly, you must provide proof of Austrian citizenship. This can be done by presenting official documents such as a birth certificate, Staatsbürgerschaftsnachweis, or other relevant certificates. If you are a dual citizen, additional documentation may be required, such as a US naturalization certificate.

Secondly, you will need to establish proof of residence. This can be demonstrated through various documents, including a valid residence permit, visa, or utility bills not older than three months. If you are a dual citizen, a US passport or similar identification may be accepted as proof of residence.

Thirdly, specific locations may require additional documentation, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. If you are applying from abroad, you may need to provide proof of legal residence in that country, such as a residence permit or visa specific to that nation.

Additionally, you must provide a recent passport photograph that adheres to EU criteria for passport photographs. This photograph should not be older than six months and must meet the necessary standards for Austrian ID cards.

Lastly, there is a fee associated with obtaining an Austrian ID card. The amount may vary depending on your location and the current exchange rate. For example, in the UK, the fee is approximately EUR 62, payable by debit card.

It is important to note that processing times can take up to five weeks, especially if the application is made from abroad, as biometric passports and ID cards can only be produced in Austria. The application process can be initiated by installing the Digitales Amt (Digital Office) app and pre-registering using the online tool.

Where to apply

To apply for an Austrian ID card, you must go in person to the Service Unit Registration and Residents, Passport Matters - Passport and Identity Card, ID Austria. If you are based in Innsbruck, you can make an appointment online in advance. In exceptional cases, you can also book an appointment by telephone. The ID card will be sent by post to the specified address within approximately five working days. The ID card is valid for ten years, after which you must apply for a new one.

If this is your first time applying for an Austrian ID card, you must bring your Austrian passport. If your passport has been lost or stolen, you must also bring a police report. You will also need to bring a completed and signed application form and a completed and signed form 'Erklärung zum Personenstand'. You can find the necessary forms online. You will also need to bring a passport photo (portrait format 35 x 45 mm), not older than six months, and meet the passport photo criteria.

Consular fees are payable in Shekels: €62 for adults, €27 for children up to 16 years old, and free of charge for children up to 2 years old. If you are applying for an ID card in Innsbruck, you may need to bring additional documents, such as a certificate of your European academic title (if listing is requested by the applicant; academic titles of Israeli universities cannot be entered). If you have Israeli citizenship, you must also bring a certificate from the Israeli Ministry of Interior on the acquisition of Israeli citizenship.

Cost of application

The cost of applying for an Austrian ID card varies depending on your age. For adults, the fee is €62.00. For minors between the ages of 2 and 16, the fee is €27.00. Children under the age of 2 are exempt from the fee.

The ID card is valid for ten years, after which a new one must be issued. The processing time for the issuance of an ID card typically ranges from three to six weeks. During this period, you can expect to receive your ID card by post at the specified address, such as your home, place of work, or passport office.

It is worth noting that the ID card serves as an official photo ID and proof of citizenship and identity within the EU and the Schengen area. It is also slightly cheaper than a passport, making it a popular choice for those who frequently travel within these regions.

When applying for an Austrian ID card, it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary documents, including a completed and signed application form, a passport photo that meets the specified criteria and is not older than six months, and your Austrian passport or a police report in case of loss or theft.

Time taken to issue the ID card

The time taken to issue an Austrian ID card varies. The issuance of the ID card typically takes between three to six weeks. However, it is possible to receive the ID card within five working days of applying. To ensure speedy processing, it is recommended to have all the necessary documents, including the original and a copy of each. These documents include a duly completed and signed application form, a completed and signed form 'Erklärung zum Personenstand', a certificate of your (European) academic title (if listing is requested by the applicant), an Austrian passport or police report in case of loss or theft, an EU passport photo (not older than six months), and any additional documents that may be required in certain circumstances.

It is important to note that the processing time may vary depending on individual circumstances and the volume of applications being processed. Therefore, it is advisable to allow sufficient time for the issuance of the ID card and to ensure that all required documents are submitted correctly to avoid any delays.

Once the ID card is issued, it is valid for ten years. After that, a new ID card must be applied for, and the old one will be cancelled by the passport office.

Validity and renewal

An Austrian ID card is valid for ten years. After this period, you must apply for a new ID card. If you have changed your name, for instance, due to marriage, you must reapply for a new ID card before the ten-year period. The same applies if your card is lost or stolen. In such cases, travel documents will be circulated internationally as lost or stolen. If the document is recovered, the issuing authority must be informed immediately. It is not advisable to use such documents for travel as some countries do not accept documents after they have been cancelled.

The application process for a new ID card typically takes between 3 to 6 weeks. To ensure speedy processing, it is recommended that you bring the following documents (original + copy): a duly completed and signed application form, a completed and signed form 'Erklärung zum Personenstand', your Austrian passport (in case of first-time application for the ID card), a police report in case of loss or theft, 1 EU passport photo (not older than 6 months), and consular fees.

If you are applying for an ID card in Innsbruck, you can make an appointment online in advance. In exceptional cases, you can also book an appointment by telephone. The ID card will be sent by post to the specified address within approximately five working days.

Frequently asked questions