You can apply to your local cantonal authorities for a passport and identity card (together or separately) either online, by telephone or at your local passport office.
If you require an identity card only, you can sometimes apply at your local communal authorities or at the passport office, depending on the canton. .
Photo
Some cantons allow you to bring your own digital photo. If the applicant wishes to use this option, he or she must indicate this when applying for an ID card. However, there is no reduction in the price or reimbursement for costs.
Digital photography
(This document is not available in English)
If you apply for an identity card from the communal authorities, you need a passport photo on photographic paper that meets the photo template requirements. Some communes accept a digital photo or take one on the premises. Ask your communal authority for details.
Photo template (PDF, 1 MB, 18.08.2014)
(This document is not available in English)
Special provisions for children, minors and applicants in the care of a guardian
The legal guardian must apply for docu-ments for minors. Children, from birth up to the age of 18, must have their own identity document. There must be no doubt about the identity of your child from the photograph.
Children and minors must sign their own identity document from the age of 7. Fingerprints will not be taken up to the age of 12.
Minors and applicants in the care of a guardian must go in person to their local communal office or passport office, accompanied by their legal guardian, to apply for an identity document.
If both parents have legal custody of a minor, only one parent is required to accompany the child if it is clear that the other parent is in agreement.
Last modification 13.06.2023