Getting a passport today is a bit like preparing a good dish: it may seem complex at first, but once you have all the steps in hand, it’s a foolproof recipe! In this article, I will guide you step by step so that you know exactly how to apply online for your passport, without any hassle, without stress, and with a minimum of wasted time. Alright, let’s hit the road for this administrative journey!
Prepare the necessary documents
Before you start, make sure you have the right documents on hand. Don’t worry, nothing too crazy here! The key is to gather what you need so that your application goes through smoothly.
Essential items for your passport:
- A valid ID card: No ID card? Unfortunately, you will need to go through the process of applying for one before you can obtain the passport.
- Proof of address (less than 3 months): Phone bill, electricity bill, rent receipt, etc. Just make sure your name is clearly on it.
- A passport photo: Make sure to follow the official standards! No smiling, no hats, face well visible… In short, the “super serious” photo that will go in your passport.
Purchase your tax stamp online
Yes, the passport costs money! Fortunately, you can buy your tax stamp online, avoiding the queue at the tobacco shop. The price varies, but for a standard passport for an adult, expect around €86. Once purchased, you will receive a code that you can use when applying online.
| Type of passport | Tax stamp price |
|---|---|
| Adult (10 years) | €86 |
| Minor 15-17 years | €42 |
| Minor under 15 | €17 |
A little tip: keep this code safe somewhere, you will need it when finalizing the application!
Create an account on the ANTS website
You can’t apply for a passport on just any site! Head to ANTS (National Agency for Secured Documents), the official site for your passport application. You can connect using FranceConnect (a very handy service to identify yourself directly via accounts like your health insurance or taxes) or create an account directly on the ANTS site.
How it works:
- Go to the ANTS site and click on “My Account.”
- Choose to connect with FranceConnect if you prefer to avoid creating yet another account (you probably already have enough!).
- If you choose to create an account, follow the usual steps: email, secure password, and voilà, you are registered.
Simple, right? And this will open the doors for you to do all kinds of official procedures online.
Fill out the online pre-application
Now, it’s time for the crucial step: filling out the passport pre-application. This will allow the town hall to have all your information even before you arrive for your appointment. And for you, it simplifies the whole process!
Steps for the pre-application:
- Log into the ANTS site and access the pre-application form.
- Fill in all the requested personal information: last name, first name, date of birth, address, etc.
- Check that you haven’t forgotten anything, then confirm. The ANTS will then provide you with a pre-application number.
Attention: This number is essential! Write it down well, as it will be required when you go to the town hall.
Tip: Choose a town hall equipped for passports
Before making an appointment, check that your town hall has a collection device for passports (not all do!). You can use the ANTS geolocation tool to find the nearest town hall that is equipped.
Make an appointment at the town hall
Once your pre-application is validated, it’s time to make an appointment at the town hall. In most cities, you can book directly online, which is super convenient (no need to spend hours on the phone).
Steps for your appointment:
- Call your town hall or check their website to see if they offer online appointment booking.
- Choose a time slot that suits you: generally, during the summer or near holidays, the waiting times are a bit longer. So, if you have a trip planned in 2 months, don’t wait!
- Confirm your appointment and make sure to note the time. If you cannot make it, inform the town hall to avoid blocking a time slot unnecessarily.
Documents to bring to the town hall
When going to your appointment, don’t forget:
- Your pre-application number
- All the documents you have prepared (ID card, proof of address, passport photo)
- Your tax stamp (if you haven’t bought it yet, some town halls allow you to purchase one on site, but this is not guaranteed everywhere!)
Finalize your application at the town hall
At the town hall, it’s very straightforward. You hand over all the documents to the official in charge of the process, who will quickly verify them. Then, they will ask you to provide your fingerprints (yes, just like in the movies!) and, if everything is in order, your application will be officially validated.
Here are a few details to know:
- Fingerprinting is mandatory for biometric passports.
- This process generally lasts about fifteen minutes.
If everything is fine, you will receive a confirmation. Your application is on its way!
Track the progress of your application
Don’t stay in uncertainty! The ANTS offers a handy tool to track the progress of your application online. As soon as your passport is ready, you will be informed, and you can go pick it up at the town hall where you made your application.
Processing times
Processing times vary depending on the time of year and the location where the application is submitted, but on average, expect about 3 to 4 weeks. If you want to avoid last-minute stress, always plan a bit of extra time so you don’t end up stuck.
| Time of year | Estimated processing time |
|---|---|
| Outside school holidays | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Summer and year-end holidays | Up to 6 weeks |
Pick up your passport
Congratulations, the moment has finally arrived! Once you have received the notification of availability, go to the town hall to pick up your passport.
A few reminders for the big day:
- You must appear in person to pick up your passport, as your identity will need to be verified again.
- If you are a minor, you must come accompanied by a parent or your legal guardian.
- Bring your ID card or an official document, as well as the pre-application number, just in case.
And there you go! After all these steps, you finally have your passport in hand, ready for all the adventures that await you.
So, ready to pack your bags and explore the world? If this article was helpful to you, feel free to share it with your friends and family so they too know how to apply online for their passport. Do you know someone struggling with their application? Share this article with them, it could really help. And if you want more tips to simplify your procedures, stay connected: new guides are coming soon!
Pascal Petibon, born in 1980 in Lyon, is a renowned journalist and author, passionate about information and communication. After earning a degree in journalism from the University of Paris, he quickly joined various editorial teams, where he became known for his sharp analysis and clear writing style.
