Electronic Residence Permit (eAT)

The elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel (eAT) is a crucial identity document 🆔 designed for non-EU citizens 🌍 legally residing in Germany.
It serves as an official proof of residence rights 📜 and allows participation in social and economic life 💼.

📝 Application Process

📅 Since September 1, 2011, the eAT has been issued as a credit-card-sized 💳 document with an embedded electronic chip 🔒.
📌 Previously, residence permits were issued as stickers in passports.

📡 The electronic chip stores:
✔️ Personal data 🏷️
✔️ Digital photograph 📸
✔️ Two digital fingerprints ✋

These biometric security features enhance identity verification by authorities 👮‍♂️.

✅ Steps to Acquire

1️⃣ Register your address with local authorities 🏢
2️⃣ Obtain German health insurance coverage 🏥 (usually required)
3️⃣ Complete the official application form 📝
4️⃣ Schedule an appointment with the foreigners authority 📅
5️⃣ Bring all necessary documents, including a biometric photo 📸
6️⃣ Authorities will review the application and may conduct an interview 🎤

📷 Photo Requirements

🔍 General Photo Guidelines

✅ Biometric photo of the applicant 📸
✅ Minimum size: 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm 📏
✅ Full frontal view of the face 👤
✅ Face should occupy 70-80% of the image 📐
✅ Head height: 32-36 mm from chin to hairline

🚫 Restrictions

⛔ Uniform, light grey background required ⚪
⛔ Facial features must be clearly visible 🧐
⛔ Eyes must be fully visible, not covered by hair or glasses 👀
⛔ No head coverings allowed, except for religious reasons 🧕
⛔ Religious head coverings: The face must remain clearly visible from chin to forehead, with no shadows

📤 Printing & Submission Guidelines

📅 From May 1, 2025, printed photos will no longer be accepted ❌
📸 Biometric photos must be digitally captured at:
✔️ Migration Office 🏢
✔️ Certified photo studios 📷
✔️ Authorized photo service providers 🖥️

📡 Photos will be securely transmitted to authorities 🔐.

ℹ️ Why is the eAT important?

✅ It serves as the primary proof of legal residence in Germany 📜.
✅ It facilitates access to essential services 🏥🏦.
✅ It is standardized and highly secure, thanks to biometric features 🔍.
✅ It protects against identity fraud 🛡️.

The strict biometric security standards 📊 set by German authorities ensure effective identification and enhanced global security 🔐.