Sustainable, convenient and with optional fast-track access

Zoo and Aquarium Berlin are introducing a new generation of annual passes. The new pass will no longer feature a printed photo, making it more sustainable and convenient. There will also be no need to update the photo on the pass. From the 2^nd of November 2026, current annual passes can be exchanged for the new generation of passes at the annual pass counter. For every annual pass purchased, €2.50 goes directly to the conservation programme of Zoologischer Garten Berlin AG. The annual pass remains valid for the named pass holder only and is non-transferable.

In addition, holders of the new generation of annual passes will have the option of fast and convenient access using automated facial recognition.

Exchanging your current annual pass

All current annual passes must be exchanged for a new annual pass free of charge by 30 June 2027. Until then, you can continue to use your current annual pass as usual. You can exchange your pass free of charge at the annual pass counters at the Löwentor entrance and, from 2 November 2026 to 30 June 2027, also at the Elefantentor entrance. There you will receive your new annual pass without a printed photo.

If you exchange your annual pass by 15 February 2027, you will receive a free Zoo ticket as a thank-you, so you can enjoy a visit with family or friends.

Optional fast-track access

Automated facial recognition is available to annual pass holders at selected turnstiles. To use this fast and convenient access option, you must first provide your consent at the annual pass counter. An encrypted facial recognition template is then created once at a designated turnstile.

On subsequent visits, your face is briefly captured at the turnstile and compared with the template stored for your annual pass number. If the data match, you can pass through the turnstile directly. An additional check against a photo ID is  not required. Automated facial recognition is optional and is available at selected turnstiles at the Löwentor and Elefantentor entrances and at the Aquarium entrance.

Access without facial recognition

The new annual pass can also be used without automated facial recognition. In this case, you can enter using your annual pass together with a valid photo ID. If there is a technical issue or facial recognition is unsuccessful, you can also enter using your annual pass and a valid photo ID. For children, a valid photo ID or proof of family relationship is required, such as a birth certificate, children's identity card or proof of child benefit.

Data protection at a glance

No photo of your face is stored for automated facial recognition. Instead, an encrypted template of your face is created and stored – similar to the facial recognition technology many people are familiar with from their smartphones. The encrypted template cannot be converted back into a photo of your face.

The individual template is linked to your annual pass number. Other personal data, such as your name or address, is stored separately in the ticketing system. The data is not shared with third parties and is used exclusively for automated facial recognition when entering Zoo and Aquarium Berlin.

Automated facial recognition is only used with your explicit consent. You can withdraw your consent at any time. If you do so, the stored template will be deleted. It will also be deleted automatically when your annual pass expires.

Mailing Annual Pass Update