What do UK citizens need to enter Germany?

UK citizens don't need a visa for short trips to Germany (up to 90 days in any 180-day Schengen period) for tourism, family visits, or business, but must have a valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months beyond their stay. For longer stays or work, a German visa (D visa) or residence permit is required. Always carry your passport and be aware of the upcoming ETIAS requirement for visa-free travellers, which will be implemented in the future.

What documents do I need to enter Germany from UK?

British citizens don't need a visa to enter Germany but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport's valid for Germany using our handy tool.

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.
 

Do I need an ETIAS to travel to 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.

Do German citizens need an ETA to enter the UK?

Everything you need to know for German citizens

Travelers visiting the UK for under six months require an Elecronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Travelers can submit an ETA application online. Once the application is approved, travelers receive their ETA confirmation electronically.

5 BIG CHANGES for Travel to Europe in 2026 | EU EES, ETIAS, UK ETA & More

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.

Is ETIAS already in effect?

The EU is developing a travel information and authorization system called ETIAS. It plans to launch in late 2026. More information on the ETIAS program is available on the official website(opens in a new tab).

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.

Is UK ETA the same as ETIAS?

From a validity standpoint, the UK ETA is valid for two years, or until the applicant's passport expires, and allows for multiple entries. The ETIAS, meanwhile, is valid for three years, or until the passport expires, and also permits multiple short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

How much is an ETIAS visa for UK citizens?

You can fill in the application form using either this official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile application. Applying for the ETIAS travel authorisation costs EUR 20, though some travellers are exempt from paying this fee.

Do British citizens need a visa for Europe in 2025?

Once approved, the ETIAS visa waiver is linked to the electronic chip inside the traveler's passport. The EU visa waiver will be verified when the passport is scanned at the exterior border. ETIAS will be a mandatory entry requirement for UK nationals once it becomes available in mid-2025.

What countries are part of the EES?

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Do I need an ETIAS to travel to Germany from the UK?

Starting in late 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be mandatory for visa-exempt travelers visiting Germany and 29 other European countries, including citizens from the US, UK, and Canada.

What paperwork do I need to enter Germany?

What Travel Documents Do I Need to Visit Germany? Whether you're planning a short vacation or a longer stay, it's important to have all your paperwork in order. US Citizens: No visa needed for stays under 90 days, but your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

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.

Will ETIAS be easy to get?

Filling in the application is quick and easy. Most applicants will receive their ETIAS travel authorisation within minutes, but in some cases the process may take up to 30 days. This is why you should apply well in advance of your travel to avoid complications.

Where can I find the official ETIAS website?

ETIAS.COM is your source for the latest news, requirements and analysis.

Can I fill out the German visa form online?

The Consular Services Portal provides an easy and secure online application procedure for visas to enter and stay in Germany. Complete your application online and have it checked in advance by the German mission to ensure that it is complete.

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.

What is the difference between ETIAS and EES?

Although they work hand in hand, ETIAS and EES serve different purposes: ETIAS = your travel authorization before departure, similar to a pre-check system. EES = entry and exit tracking at the border, confirming how long you actually remain in Schengen countries.

What are the new entry rules for Britons going to the EU?

New rules for UK travellers to Europe involve the gradual rollout of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) for biometric registration (fingerprints, photo) at borders from late 2025/early 2026, replacing passport stamps, and the future ETIAS visa-waiver system (expected late 2026/2027) for online pre-authorisation for short stays (90 days in 180), with EES requiring on-arrival registration and ETIAS an online application fee. You'll still need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your stay and must follow the 90/180-day Schengen rule, plus restrictions on bringing food products like meat and dairy.
 

Do British citizens need an ETA to enter the EU?

Yes, UK citizens will need an {Link: ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) for short trips to most European countries starting in late 2026, as it's a new EU requirement after Brexit, though currently visa-free travel for up to 90 days remains, requiring just an online pre-travel authorization once ETIAS is live. 

Should dual citizens travel with both passports?

Requirements for U.S. citizens holding dual nationality

There are some requirements that U.S. citizen dual nationals must follow: You must enter and leave the United States on your U.S. passport. You are not allowed to enter on your foreign passport based on U.S. law. U.S. citizens are not eligible for a U.S. visa.