Liechtenstein passport

Liechtenstein passport is an official document certifying the identity and citizenship of Liechtenstein residents. Externally, it looks like a standard ID card with a dark blue cover and a coat of arms. It contains an electronic chip with the owner's biometric data, which allows it to meet modern security standards.

It is issued for a period of 10 years for adults and 5 years for children. The benefits that the holder receives include not only the right to visa-free travel to 172 countries, but also the privileges of living and working in the states of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

How to get a Liechtenstein passport?

Obtaining an identity card of the principality is possible only after registration of citizenship. This can be done only if one of the criteria is met:

• By birth. Children born to parents, of whom at least one of them is a permanent resident of Liechtenstein, automatically receive a passport.
• By naturalization. Foreigners can apply if a number of conditions are met, such as long-term residence in the country (usually at least 30 years).
• By marriage. Spouses of Liechtenstein citizens can apply for a document after 5 years of marriage and residence in the country for at least 10 years.

The requirements for candidates necessarily include proficiency in German, integration into local society, stable income, as well as residence in the country for a long time.

Important

The years of residence at a young age can be counted twice (for example, every year up to 20 years is counted as two).

How do I get it?

Foreigners can apply for a principality passport through naturalization, a process that involves a number of steps. The main condition is long-term residence in the country, as well as the fulfillment of other requirements.

The naturalization process involves going through the following procedures:

Interesting

In marriage, the years of residence are counted twice, that is, you need to live in the country for 5 years to apply.  For up–to-date and detailed information, it is recommended to contact the official source - the website of the Liechtenstein Migration Office.    

Liechtenstein Citizenship Law

The legal status of foreigners and permanent residents is regulated by the Gesetz über das Staatsangehörigkeitsrecht Act of 1990, with subsequent amendments. The Law describes the procedures for obtaining, losing and restoring a Liechtenstein passport.

Citizenship can be obtained by right of blood (jus sanguinis). Children of Liechtenstein citizens automatically become full members of the country, regardless of their place of birth. In addition, naturalization conditions are provided, which require residence in the principality for a certain period of time, proficiency in the German language and integration into society.

Interesting

Liechtenstein has a unique mechanism: "rights and obligations". According to it, citizens can participate in the law-making process by initiating changes in legislation. For example, a sufficient number of signatures can propose a bill for consideration. This creates an opportunity for public participation in the legislative process and ensures that opinions are heard.

Passport documents

To obtain an identity card, it is necessary to collect a certain package of papers confirming the identity and status of the applicant. The design requires attention to detail, because every little thing matters.

Interesting

Liechtenstein is one of the countries where obtaining a passport takes a minimum amount of time – 10 working days. This is due to the fact that the principality has a small population and a high degree of automation in public services.

Properly prepared documents will prevent delays in the application and processing process. The standard list includes:

• Completed application form;
• Current identity card;
• Photos that meet the requirements for passport photos;
• Documents confirming Liechtenstein citizenship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.);
• Proof of legal residence in the Principality (if applicable);
• Certificate of financial solvency (required for some categories of applicants).

Based on certain situations, additional documents may be required, such as certificates of financial solvency or legal residence in the country.

Additional features

For information and a complete list of documents, it is recommended to use the official website of the Government of Liechtenstein.  

How much does a Liechtenstein passport cost?

The registration of the document is associated with certain expenses for the state fee. The clearance prices for each category vary.

Domestic:

• For adults: 156 € (for 10 years);
• For children (12-18 years old): 63 € (for 10 years);
• For children under 12 years old: 31 € (for 5 years).

Overseas:

• For adults: 260 € (for 10 years);
• For children (12-18 years old): 104 € (for 10 years);
• For children under 12 years old: 52 € (for 5 years).

Liechtenstein does not have a program for obtaining citizenship through investment or the purchase of real estate. Therefore, the costs associated with immigration are not applicable in this case.

For more information about the passport registration process and other administrative expenses, it is recommended to visit the official website of the Liechtenstein Migration Office.