What documents do I need to go to Germany?

To travel to Germany, you must have a valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure date from the Schengen area. Depending on your nationality and trip length, you may need a Schengen visa, travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage), proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds.

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 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.

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 documents do I need to travel to Europe from the UK?

What documents do I need before I travel to Europe?

1. Passport: Check if your passport is still in date - you might have to renew it before you travel!
2. Health insurance cards: Sign up for a Global Health Insurance card.
3. Visas: It can vary from place to place, so double check if you'll need a visa for your destination.

6 Critical Things to Do Right After You Arrive in Germany

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 do you need to enter Germany?

American citizens do not need a visa to enter Germany for any reason; however, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you have to apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde).

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.

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 is the new visa rule for Germany?

Here are the main points of the newly announced policy: Indian passport holders can now transit through German airports without an Airport Transit Visa. This rule applies only to transit journeys to non-Schengen destinations. Travellers must remain within the airport's international transit area.

Where can I find the official ETIAS website?

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

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.

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.

What documents are required to go to Germany?

Always check in with the German embassy or visa center before submitting the completed document file.

• Visa Application Form. ...
• Valid Passport. ...
• Two Photos. ...
• Proof of Accommodation in Germany. ...
• Round Trip Reservation or Itinerary. ...
• Travel Health Insurance. ...
• Proof of Financial Means. ...
• Visa Fee Receipt.

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 do I apply for an ETIAS from the UK?

Once you have your documents, you can fill out the ETIAS application form online. This form will ask for: Personal details (name, date of birth, nationality). Passport information (passport number, issue date, expiration date).

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.

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.

Is ETIAS free for over 70s?

The ETIAS authorisation will last for three years (after which it will need to be renewed for future visits), or until the holder's passport expires (whichever is sooner). It will cost €20 for people aged 18 to 70. However, it will be free for under-18s and over-70s.

Do I need EES to enter Germany?

EU Entry and Exit System (EES)

As of October 12, 2025, U.S. citizens will need to go through the EU's new Entry and Exit System when traveling to 29 European countries. This applies to any visits lasting up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

What needs to be declared 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.

Is Germany visa free now?

Generally speaking, all foreigners require a visa for stays in Germany. A visa is not required for visits of up to 90 days in an 180 day period for nationals of those countries for which the European Community has abolished the visa requirement. Indian citizens require a visa.