In Austria, significant fee increases for official documents such as passports, identity cards, and driver's licenses will come into effect on July 1, 2025. The Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC) therefore advises all citizens who still need new travel documents for their upcoming vacation trips to submit their applications in June if possible to save costs.
Yvette Polasek, travel expert at the ÖAMTC, points out that some of the fee increases are significant. For example, the fee for a new passport will rise from €75,90 to €112. An identity card will cost €91 instead of €61,50, and a driver's license will cost €90 instead of €60,50. The mobility club therefore strongly recommends checking in advance whether a renewal is necessary. The decisive factor for the old fees is the time of application, not the time of issue. This can save up to €36 per document.
The ÖAMTC expert also pointed out that applications for passports and driver's licenses can be submitted throughout Germany, provided appointments are still available. This means that you don't necessarily have to visit the office closest to your home, which can be a relief, especially in urban areas with long waiting times. It's advisable to inquire about available appointments well in advance.