In Switzerland
SYou 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.
If you only need an identity card, you can apply to your commune of residence or cantonal passport office, depending on the canton where you live.
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 identity cards, a photo of your face and your signature; for passports, fingerprints are also required).
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 or from a Swiss representation abroad
Informieren Sie sich vorgängig über die Einreise- und Aufenthaltsbestimmungen Ihres Transit- oder Ziellandes.
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. A colour digital photo is required for Swiss passports. When applying for an identity card, 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 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 (PDF, 1 MB, 18.08.2014).
Last modification 30.06.2025
