SWISS PASSPORT OR IDENTITY CARD
Depending on which canton you live in, you can apply for an identity card either in person at the residents’ registration office in your commune or at your canton’s passport office (by phone or by internet, in person depending on where you live). Some cantons offer both ways of ordering (common domicile or passport office)
You can apply for a Swiss passport or a combination of identity card and biometric passport at the same time by internet or phone. When your application has been examined, you will be invited to come to the passport office in person to record your data (photo, signature and finger prints. Certain cantons allow you to bring your own digital photo. After your personal interview and once your application has been accepted, you will receive your passport and/or identity card within 10 working days by registered post (or within 30 days if sent to an address outside of Switzerland).
APPLYING FOR IDENTITY DOCUMENTS – THE MOST IMPORTANT POINTS AT A GLANCE
To apply you just need a computer with an internet connection and a reliable email address. The order website describes the application procedure. You will then get an email inviting you to a personal interview (to record your data for a passport and/or identity card).
SWISS PASSPORT OR IDENTITY CARD FOR CHILDREN
Children need their own Swiss passport or identity card to travel abroad. It is not possible to include a child on their parent’s identity papers.
Children up to the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult to the passport office to record their data. The adult must produce valid proof of identity. Unmarried, divorced or separated parents must provide proof of custody. A family or birth certificate and residence certificate may also be required along with the child’s application.
