Who needs an identity card in Germany?

All German nationals up to the age of 16 have to apply for an personal identity card. Children and younger people can get an ID card without the eID function.
Since 1 September 2011 foreigners, living permanently in Germany, are using the electronic residence permit (eAT) to identify themselves. This procedure applies to all EU member states.

The eAT identification document card is created in Germany and has a contactless chip inside the card, on which it is possible to use the eID function.

Tourists, EU-citizens, people from abroad who are visiting Germany for a temporary period also need a passport to identify themselves at anytime.
EU-citizens within the Schengen Agreement (Schengen States) can cross the common internal borders of the EU member states at any point without persons control but they are also obliged to carry a passport.

All identification you need for traveling

In addition to the identity card, the passport is also valid as a personal travel document. The biometric passport incorporates an electronic chip that contains a personal photo and two fingerprints.
German minors use a child's passport to identify themselves. The children's passports are recognized worldwide and are valid until the age of 12 years. From the age of 12, children will need an ID card or passport depending on their destination. This document does not contain any eID functions yet.
EU-citizens who own a passport for trips can travel freely in the Schengen area.
When traveling outside the Schengen area, a passport is usually required. In some countries it is insisted that the passport is still valid for at least six months.

In Case of Loss

If passports / identity papers are lost abroad, affected citizens have to declare the loss, turn to their embassies or consulates and apply for a passport substitute. On the internet presence of the German Foreign Office, you will find information about the required application documents and consular assistance.