What do you have to declare when entering Germany?

Restrictions. You may not just bring everything that is on sale abroad with you. In Germany certain goods, such as pharmaceuticals, narcotics, but also media likely to harm minors and unconstitutional media are subject to restrictions or bans. You must declare funds of 10,000 euros or more.

What needs to be declared at German customs?

Goods intended for commercial or trading purposes must always be declared regardless of their value. This also applies to goods subject to restrictions (e.g. narcotics, weapons, ammunition and protected plant and animal species, parts thereof or goods produced using such species).

What cannot be brought into Germany?

What are the new entry requirements for Germany?

A new requirement starts in 2026

For US citizens (among others), a new requirement is set to start in 2026 that will necessitate an additional step for visa-free visitors. This includes US and UK citizens. In 2026, Germany will require all travelers without a visa to apply for something called an ETIAS.

What do British citizens need to enter Germany?

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.

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Do UK citizens need to apply for ETIAS?

Yes. UK nationals, including British overseas citizens (BOC), British protected persons (BPP), British subjects (BS), are required to have a valid ETIAS travel authorisation to travel to any of the 30 European countries requiring ETIAS for a short stay unless they are beneficiaries of the withdrawal agreement.

When in 2025 will ETIAS start?

On March 5, 2025, the European Council announced that the ETIAS is likely to be launched in the 'last quarter of 2026'.

What to bring to enter Germany?

Do I need to fill out a form to enter Germany?

No. You can enter Germany for up to 90 days for business, tourism, or to family visit without a visa. Your document must be valid for at least three months after entering Germany.

Do I need an ETIAS for Germany?

ETIAS is required for visitors to Germany who do not have a Schengen visa/passport from 2026 on. The ETIAS application is online and only takes a few minutes. Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. German/Schengen country citizens do not need ETIAS.

What is unacceptable in Germany?

Having a loud conversation, talking loud on the phone, or listening to loud music are considered very impolite as you will disturb other people. German people love to have their privacy. If you see a closed door, it doesn't mean that the person inside does not want you to come in.

What is prohibited in checked baggage in Germany?

Fireworks or flares in any form (including firecrackers and toy caps) Smoke-generating canisters or cartridges. Dynamite, gunpowder, and plastic explosives. Flammable solids and liquids, such as petrol, diesel, lighter fluid, alcohol, and ethanol.

What is not allowed to say in Germany?

These acts are illegal in Germany: ▪️ Displaying Nazi symbolism, like a swastika ▪️ Denying the Holocaust ▪️ Insulting someone online or in public ▪️ Spreading fake quotes or malicious gossip.

What am I supposed to declare at customs?

The U.S. customs declaration form asks about all items purchased abroad, agricultural products, and monetary instruments. Being honest is always the best policy. Understand Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited and restricted items before traveling.

What to declare in a customs declaration?

Travellers have to declare everything they acquired abroad and possibly pay customs duty tax on goods. Some countries offer a duty-free allowance of certain products which may not need to be declared explicitly.

How do you know if you need to declare at customs?

What is the difference between ETIAS and EES?

With ETIAS, visa-free travellers will need to apply for a travel authorisation before starting their trip. ETIAS is not a visa, and its introduction does not modify the visa-free status of travellers. The EES will register visa-free and visa-required travellers entering Europe for a short stay.

Is ETIAS delayed again?

Implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) has been delayed again. Initially expected to be operational in 2022, ETIAS is now scheduled to start in the last quarter of 2026.

What is EES and when does it start?

From 12 October 2025, the European Union's (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin. This is a new digital border system that will change requirements for British citizens travelling to the Schengen area.

When in 2025 will EES start?

The EU has confirmed EES will start 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.

Do I need an ETIAS 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.

What documents do I need to travel to Germany from the UK?

Passports & Visas

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 I need a visa to go to Germany in 2025?

No visa is required for stays less than 90 days.

How much does ETIAS cost in Germany?

Applying for the ETIAS travel authorisation costs EUR 20, though some travellers are exempt from paying this fee.