Application

(Photo: fedpol)

In Switzerland

You can apply for a passport and/or an identity card separately or together, either online, by telephone or at the passport office in your canton.

The application process for the non-biometric identity card (without chip) remains unchanged. If a canton so provides, identity cards without chips can be applied for at the municipalities. The application process for the biometric identity card is identical to that of the Swiss passport. However, the cantons can set up additional registration centres, which they manage in cooperation with their municipalities, cities or other authorities, subject to appropriate delegation.

From abroad

If you live abroad, you can apply for your passport and/or identity card online. Once your application has been reviewed, you will be asked to go to the Swiss representation in your country of residence, where your information will be recorded (for an identity card without chip, a photo of your face and your signature; for the passport and the identity card with chip, fingerprints are also required).

• Emergency passports

  Emergency passports can only be issued in justified, urgent situations or if your journey is imminent. They are valid for the duration of your journey up to a maximum of 12 months. You can apply for an emergency passport from your cantonal passport office, the airport or from a Swiss representation abroad.

  Important: The Swiss emergency passport is not accepted by all states.

  Inform yourself in advance about the entry and residence requirements of your transit or destination country.

• Photos

  In some cantons, you can submit a digital photo. If you wish to do so, you must indicate this when applying for your identity document. When applying for an identity card without chip, you can submit your photo in colour or black and white. This does not entitle you to a fee reduction or reimbursement of expenses.
  Digital photos

  If you apply for your identity card without chip from your commune of residence, you will need a paper photo that meets the criteria set out in the list of accepted photos. Some communes accept digital photos or take a photo themselves on-site. Ask your commune for more information.

  • List of accepted photos

    (This document is not available in English)

    PDF6.34 MB2 November 2026