Electronic Residence Permit (eAT)
All information on how the electronic residence permit (eAT) or the plastic residence card works.
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Here you learn ...
what the electronic residence permit (eAT) is (plastic card)
what advantages and functions the eAT has
how to apply for the eAT or plastic card
everything about data protection with the eAT
Table of contents
1. What is the electronic residence permit (eAT)?
2. Advantages of the eAT plastic card
3. Functions of the plastic card (electronic residence permit (eAT))
4. Applying for the eAT
5. Data protection and security eAT
6. FAQ eAT
7. Conclusion electronic residence permit (eAT)/plastic card
1. What is the electronic residence permit (eAT)?
Since September 1, 2011, the electronic residence permit (eAT) has replaced the previous paper residence permits in Germany. The eAT is a credit card-sized plastic card with an integrated chip and offers modern security and functionality features. In this article, you'll learn how the eAT works, what benefits it offers, and what applicants need to consider.
The eAT is a uniform document for third-country nationals, which is generally issued for all the following residence permits in accordance with Section 4 Paragraph 1 of the Residence Act :
Residence permit for humanitarian reasons
The eAT also serves as proof of identity and also includes a photograph and fingerprints of the holder.
Structure of the eAT
The structure of the electronic residence permit is prescribed by law (see Section 78 of the Residence Act ). The information specified in Section 78 of the Residence Act is stored in various components of the electronic residence permit. The electronic residence permit consists of:
Front with personal data, validity date, authority
Back with additional notes (e.g. employment permitted/not permitted)
Integrated chip that stores various data electronically
The chip contains biometric data (photo and fingerprints), the electronic identity function (eID) and, if applicable, an electronic signature (optional).
2. Advantages of the eAT plastic card
The eAT, or plastic card, was introduced primarily to ensure a formally identical document across Europe. Thanks to modern technology, the electronic residence permit offers the following advantages:
High protection against counterfeiting thanks to modern security features
Uniform format for all EU countries
Digital usage options through eID
Legally binding electronic signature possible
Fast access to relevant data for authorities
Contact us
Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
3. Functions of the plastic card (electronic residence permit (eAT))
The electronic residence permit offers the following integrated functionalities:
Electronic identity function (eID)
With the eID function, eAT holders can identify themselves securely online – for example, when dealing with authorities, using online banking, or for insurance purposes. Use requires entering a six-digit PIN, a corresponding card reader or an NFC-enabled smartphone, and supporting software such as the AusweisApp2.
Storage of residence permits and ancillary provisions
All information relevant to the immigration authorities is stored both visibly on the card and digitally on the chip – including permission to work, the period of validity and travel restrictions.
Electronic signature (optional)
Anyone who would like to use the eAT as a signature card can purchase a qualified electronic certificate from a signature provider. This allows documents to be digitally signed in a legally secure manner.
4. Applying for the eAT
The application for an electronic residence permit (eAT) is submitted to the responsible immigration authority. An in-person appointment is required for the application, as a biometric photo must be taken or submitted on-site, fingerprints taken, and the eID function can optionally be activated. The validity of the eAT depends on the residence permit on which it is based. If the residence permit is extended or certain conditions change, a new eAT must be issued.
5. Data protection and security eAT
Data protection and security are comprehensively guaranteed for the electronic residence permit (eAT). Access to the data stored on the chip is highly protected: only authorized authorities such as the police or immigration authorities can access certain information using special readers. When using the permit online, users must explicitly consent and enter their PIN before data is transferred – this virtually eliminates misuse by third parties. If the eAT is lost or stolen, or if essential stored information such as the address or passport number changes, a new electronic residence permit must be applied for. In such cases, the old permit is immediately blocked to ensure the secure handling of personal data.
Contact us
Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
6. FAQ
What is the electronic residence permit (eAT)?
The electronic residence permit (eAT) is a credit card-sized plastic card with an integrated chip. Since September 1, 2011, it has replaced the previous paper residence permits in Germany. The eAT contains biometric data (photo and fingerprints) and is issued for various residence permits, such as the residence permit or the EU Blue Card.
What advantages does the eAT offer?
The eAT has the following advantages:
High protection against counterfeiting thanks to modern security features
Uniform EU-wide format
Digital use through the eID function
Possibility of electronic signature
Fast access to relevant information for authorities
Which functions are integrated into the eAT?
The eAT contains:
Electronic identity function (eID) for online services (e.g. government portals, insurance companies)
Storage of residence permits and additional notes (e.g. employment permitted)
Optional: Electronic signature for legally secure digital signature
What happens if the eAT is lost or stolen?
Report the loss immediately to the immigration authorities. The eAT will be blocked immediately to prevent misuse. A new eAT must be applied for.
7. Conclusion
The electronic residence permit (eAT) offers third-country nationals in Germany a secure, modern, and standardized document to legitimize their residence status. As a plastic card with an integrated chip, it has replaced the old paper residence permits since 2011 and combines numerous functions such as biometric identification, electronic proof of identity, and optional digital signature options. Its high level of forgery protection, Europe-wide standardization, and digital usability make the eAT a modern tool for immigration administration. At the same time, strict data protection measures ensure that personal data is reliably protected. Overall, the eAT represents a future-oriented solution that effectively combines administration, security, and user-friendliness.
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