All foreign nationals must have a recognised and valid passport or passport substitute.

German passport substitutes may only be issued to non-German nationals in special exceptional cases, as this interferes with the passport sovereignty of another country.

The emergency travel document is such a passport substitute. If you do not have a valid travel document, you may only be issued an emergency travel document,

• to avoid undue hardship
• or if there is a special public interest.

Only nationals of one of the following countries can obtain an emergency travel document:

• EU and EEA states
• Switzerland
• Countries listed in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1806
• if you can prove that you are authorised to stay in Germany, the EU, the other EEA states or Switzerland (and to return there).

There is no entitlement to the issue of an emergency travel document. It is always a case-by-case decision that is only made in exceptional circumstances. Only the formal framework conditions are listed here.

Note: Citizens of other countries who have a residence permit or a residence authorisation can apply for a"travel document for foreigners" at the foreigners authority before starting their journey. German nationals have their own travel document as a substitute for a passport.

The emergency travel document is not a full replacement for a passport. You may use it to leave and then re-enter Germany. Travelling to other countries is not possible. The emergency travel document is valid for the duration of the journey, but for a maximum of one month.

Please note: Other countries are not obliged to accept the emergency travel document as a travel document. Airlines may also refuse to carry an emergency travel document.

Tip: On the website of the Federal Police you will find a list of countries that recognise passport replacement documents issued in Germany. Please note, however, that foreign border authorities may change this practice at short notice.