What you can do with a BundID

• Log in to federal, state, and local e-services with one account (e.g., ElterngeldDigital, BAföG Digital, Jobcenter/BA eServices).

• Receive decisions and notifications in your BundID mailbox.

• Re-use your verified identity across portals (you’ll find services via the Federal Portal).

Who can get a BundID?

Anyone aged 16+ can register, no German citizenship required. EU citizens, non-EU citizens, and holders of an electronic residence permit (eAT) can all use BundID. With the eID function on a German ID card or eAT, you can reach the highest trust level.

Registration methods (assurance levels)

You can start with a simpler method and upgrade later:

1. Username + password → basic access.

2. ELSTER certificate → substantial access.

3. European eID card → substantial access.

4. German ID (Personalausweis with eID) or eAT card via AusweisApp2 + NFC → highest access.

Step-by-step: Set up your BundID (5–10 minutes)

1. Create an account at id.bund.de and choose a registration method.

2. Confirm your email and follow the prompts.

3. For eID/eAT: install AusweisApp2, enable NFC on your phone, and scan your card.

4. Log in and check your mailbox to confirm it works.

Troubleshooting eID / eAT logins

• NFC issues: ensure NFC is on; adjust card position; use a certified USB/NFC reader if needed.

• App problems: update AusweisApp2 and restart your device.

• No NFC on your computer: use your smartphone as a card reader for your laptop or get a compatible reader.

Privacy & security

BundID complies with GDPR and federal security standards. Your account includes a secure mailbox to exchange messages with authorities.

Why this matters for expats

• One login for many authorities (less account chaos).

• Faster responses thanks to the digital mailbox.

• Highest trust level possible with an eAT, useful for visa and residence processes that need strong identification.

How ExpatEaze can help

• Pre-call to pick the right setup (username, ELSTER, eID/eAT).

• Hands-on support with AusweisApp2, NFC, and compatible readers.

• Service onboarding (connecting BundID to BA eServices, ElterngeldDigital, Jobcenter Digital, etc.).

• In-person interpreting for any appointment that still requires you to show up with paper.

I’ve supported hundreds of expats through Germany’s digital and in-person processes—often on last-minute bookings, so you can focus on your life, not the logins.

Sources & Official Links

• BundID overview and mailbox: https://id.bund.de

• Federal service catalog (search connected services): https://www.verwaltung.bund.de

• AusweisApp2 (downloads, guides): https://www.ausweisapp.bund.de

• Compatible card readers list: https://www.ausweisapp.bund.de/en/help-and-support/requirements/card-readers

• ELSTER (online tax): https://www.elster.de

• BA eServices (Bundesagentur für Arbeit): https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/eservices

• Using a phone/reader for eID & eAT (help article): https://www.germany4ukraine.de/hilfeportal-en/e-id-function-of-the-electronic-residence-permit

Need help setting up BundID (or ELSTER/eID) fast?
👉 Book a free consultation: https://www.expateaze.de/