What do I need to travel to Germany?

To travel to Germany, you need a valid passport, proof of funds, travel health insurance, and potentially a Schengen visa, depending on your nationality, though many (like US, UK, EU citizens) can enter visa-free for short tourist stays (up to 90 days in 180). Ensure your passport has at least 3 months' validity past your departure, and be prepared to show proof of accommodation and return travel, as border guards check for compliance with the 90-day Schengen rule.

What do I need to go to Germany from the UK?

British citizens require a visa and/or residence permit for any stay beyond 90 days within any 180-day period. British citizens may apply to the local immigration office (“Ausländerbehörde”) for their residence permits after arrival in Germany and do not need to have obtained a visa prior to travelling to Germany.

What documents are needed to travel to Germany?

Germany Visa Document Requirements

• Application form.
• Valid passport.
• Two identical photos.
• Proof of accommodation in Germany.
• Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary.
• Health insurance.
• Proof of financial means.
• Visa fee receipt.

Do UK citizens need to apply for ETIAS?

Yes, UK citizens will need an ETIAS authorization to travel to most European countries for short stays (up to 90 days) once the system launches, currently expected in late 2026, as it's a mandatory pre-entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals, similar to the US ESTA. This applies to the Schengen Area and other countries like Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania, but not Ireland due to the Common Travel Area.
 

What is the requirement to go to Germany?

Germany visa requirements

You will need to have a passport that has been issued within the last 10 years. You will need to have a passport that is valid for 3 months after your date of departure. You will need proof of accommodation as well as sufficient funds. You will need proof of onward travel or exit.

GERMANY TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS | 40+ Must-Knows Before Visiting Germany + What NOT to Do!

Do I need ETIAS for Germany now?

ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026.

No action is required from travellers at this point. The European Union will inform about the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.

When in 2025 will ETIAS start?

When will ETIAS go into effect? ETIAS is scheduled to be introduced in the last quarter of 2026. The exact date will be announced at least six (6) months before the system enters into operation. The Entry/Exit System (explained further) will begin on October 12, 2025.

How much will ETIAS cost?

An ETIAS will cost €20 (£17ish currently), though it'll be free for anyone under the age of 18 and those who are aged 71 and over. It will last for three years. You will be able to travel on multiple trips during those three years with the same ETIAS.

Can I travel to Europe with a British passport without a visa?

Visas and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) If you're a British passport holder and going on holiday or travelling for business, you can stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without needing to get a visa.

Can I apply for ETIAS now?

No, you cannot apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) yet, as it is not operational; it's scheduled to start in the last quarter of 2026, with applications opening a few months prior via an official website or app, requiring a €20 fee for most travelers. 

How to apply for ETIAS Germany?

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for ETIAS

1. Step 1: Access the Official ETIAS Website. To begin, visit the official ETIAS portal. ...
2. Step 2: Complete the ETIAS Application Form. ...
3. Step 3: Pay the ETIAS Application Fee. ...
4. Step 4: Submit Your Application and Wait for Processing. ...
5. Step 5: Receive and Use Your ETIAS Authorization.

What do I need for my trip to Germany?

Essential Documents for Germany

• Passport.
• Visa.
• Passport-size biometric photographs.
• Travel insurance.
• Health insurance.
• Official admission letter from your university.
• English and/or German language certificates.
• Transcripts from your previous university.

Do I need a visa for Germany if I have a UK travel document?

Irrespective of their nationality: holders of Stateless Person's Travel Documents (1954 United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons, red), issued by the United Kingdom, do not require a visa for travel to Germany provided that the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180 ...

Does NHS cover me in Germany?

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Germany, you need a Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) or a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ). The NHS's getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about: how to apply for a GHIC. how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time.

Is tap water safe to drink in Germany?

As a rule, the quality of tap water in Germany conforms to strict regulations, is checked very thoroughly, and is perfectly drinkable without any treatment. In fact, its quality is comparable to most commercially available drinking waters in many places.

What is the best time to visit Germany?

In Germany, the "tourist season" runs roughly from May through September. Summer has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun. Travel during "shoulder season" (spring and fall) is easier and can be a bit less expensive.

Why is it called the Schengen area?

The Schengen Area was created following the Schengen Agreement, named after the village in Luxembourg where it was signed in 1985. The Schengen Convention, which followed in 1990, set out more details on the operation of the borderless area.

What are the new travel rules for 2025?

Overview of 2025 TSA changes

Here's what's different: According to tsa.gov, REAL ID is now required for all adult travelers on domestic flights. This new travel law started on May 7, 2025.

What do UK citizens need to enter Europe?

Nationals of the United Kingdom

UK nationals are required to have a valid ETIAS travel authorisation if they travel to any of the European countries requiring ETIAS for a short-term stay (90 days in any 180-day period).

What date in 2025 does ETIAS start?

EES started on 12 October 2025. It will be introduced in phases, building towards being fully operational by 10 April 2026. You won't need an ETIAS for travel this year. The EU is looking to introduce ETIAS towards the end of 2026.

How early should I apply for ETIAS?

You should apply for an ETIAS authorization well in advance of your trip, ideally before booking your ticket or accommodation. While most applications are processed within minutes, in some cases, additional documents or an interview may be required, which can extend the process by up to 30 days.

Do I need ETIAS for Germany in 2025?

ETIAS is the new travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to enter 30 European countries. ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026. No action is required from travellers at this point.

Are visa slots open for fall 2025?

For Fall 2025, F1 visa slots for Indian students will start to open around June or July, though there might be a few slots available in May. It is advisable to book your F1 visa slots for fall 2025 up to 120 days before your course starts.

Is ETIAS delayed until 2026?

ETIAS: Delayed Until Late 2026

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which was initially expected to launch in 2024 and later delayed to 2025, is now confirmed to be officially operational in the last quarter of 2026 (Q4 2026).