New direct delivery for ID cards: convenience or cost trap?

New direct delivery for ID cards: convenience or cost trap?

The Federal Ministry of the Interior recently informed about a new direct mailing service for ID documents. From May 2025, citizens aged 16 and over will have the option of using direct delivery when applying for identity cards, electronic residence permits and eID cards. This innovation is intended to reduce bureaucratic effort and simplify the application for identification documents.

With the new process, applicants can save themselves having to go to the authorities to collect their ID cards, as the documents are delivered directly to their door. However, this only applies to people who submit their application within Germany to the responsible authority at their place of residence. Direct shipping is not available for residents of Büsingen am Hochrhein and Helgoland. The identification documents are handed over in person and a valid identification document, such as an ID card or passport, must be presented to confirm identity.

Price increase for ID cards

In addition, it was announced that the price of ID cards will increase by up to 66 percent due to a new surcharge. This particularly concerns the new direct shipping modalities and represents a significant price increase that will affect many citizens. Further details on this price increase can be found in the reporting from Chip.de to find.

Additional information about direct shipping and the associated changes can also be found on the city of Gevelsberg website, such as City Hall Direct reported.