The processing time for a 10-year Russian passport at the Consulate in Berlin is approximately three months
The processing time for a 10-year Russian passport at the Consulate in Berlin is approximately three months. However, a recent case indicated a much faster turnaround, with documents submitted on April 22nd resulting in passport readiness by May 5th. This suggests variability in processing times.
In Germany, passport photos for official documents can often be taken directly at the registration office (Bürgeramt)
In Germany, passport photos for official documents can often be taken directly at the registration office (Bürgeramt). Since May 2024, many offices are equipped with photo booths. However, services vary by location, so it's advisable to call ahead or check with other services like DM for digital photo options.
Ukrainian citizens traveling to Germany require a biometric passport for international flights
Ukrainian citizens traveling to Germany require a biometric passport for international flights. An internal Ukrainian passport (booklet type) is not sufficient for air travel, even under the visa-free regime. A valid biometric passport is mandatory.
When a Russian passport is expiring while residing in Germany, renewing it through the Russian consulate in Germany can…
When a Russian passport is expiring while residing in Germany, renewing it through the Russian consulate in Germany can take anywhere from weeks to 1.5 years due to the slow consular mail service to Moscow and back. A temporary residence permit (VNJ) or Fiktionsbescheinigung (fictional certificate) is typically tied to a valid passport. If the passport expires, the VNJ may become invalid, and a Fiktionsbescheinigung will also expire with the old passport. Obtaining a Passersatz (passport substitute) is difficult and usually requires being stateless or having compelling reasons preventing passport renewal from the home country. It might be faster to travel to Russia for renewal, but this carries risks if the current German residence permit is close to expiry. The German Foreigners' Office (ABH) usually requires a valid passport to issue a new residence card. Legal consultation can be expensive (e.g., 440 EUR/hour in 2024 for an immigration lawyer, or 230 EUR/hour for other legal issues).