Passport and ID Card: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to obtain your official French identity documents and what you need to know about costs and booking appointments.
This scheme allows you to obtain the official identity documents required for identification within France and for traveling internationally.
Who it's for
This scheme is strictly for French citizens who require official government-issued identification for personal or travel purposes.
What you get
Through this process, you receive your official identity documents. Depending on your needs, this includes a passport for international travel and an ID card for standard identification.
What it costs you
The cost of obtaining these documents varies depending on which one you are applying for. The ID card is provided free of charge. However, if you are applying for a passport, there is a fee of €86.
The catch to know
The biggest challenge is the scheduling. Even though you can begin the process online, you are required to visit a Mairie (town hall) to complete the application. Because these visits are necessary to provide biometric data, appointments at the Mairie can take months to book, so it is important to plan far in advance.
How to apply
- Access the official portal to begin your application process digitally.
- Prepare all necessary identification and supporting documents required for the verification process.
- Search for and book an appointment at your local Mairie to complete the formal requirements.
- Attend your appointment in person to provide necessary biometric information.
- Wait for the government body to process the request and notify you when your documents are ready for collection.