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Travel requirements to Germany for British citizens

British citizens don’t need a visa for short stays in Germany, making it a great destination for tourism, business trips, and short visits. However, it's important to be aware of other travel requirements and conditions to ensure a smooth journey.

Germany entry requirements for British citizens

International travellers don’t need a visa to transit through Germany.

Travellers need a visa to visit Germany for Business or Tourism for more than 90 days. Travellers do not need a visa if staying for 90 days or less.

The UK government is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for non-visa travellers starting in 2025. This system, similar to the US ESTA, will require most visitors to obtain an ETA or eVisa before travelling to the UK. The ETA is a digital permit linked to the traveller’s passport, costing £10, and allows multiple entries into the UK for up to six months at a time over a two-year period.

ETA Rollout Schedule:

From January 8, 2025: All non-European nationals will need an ETA.
From April 2, 2025: European citizens will also require an ETA.
Applications: Open for non-European nationals on November 27, 2023, and for European citizens on March 5, 2025.

Who Needs an ETA?

It will cover all non-European and European nationals (except British and Irish citizens).

Exemptions:

British and Irish passport holders, those with British Overseas Territories passports, existing visa holders, and individuals with permission to live, work, or study in the UK do not need to apply for an ETA.

Restrictions:

While the ETA permits stays for tourism, business, short-term studies, or visiting friends and family for up to six months, it does not allow activities like getting married, claiming benefits, residing in the country through frequent visits, or self-employed work.

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Travellers require a passport valid for at least 3 months after the traveller exits Germany

Travellers need a valid passport to enter Germany. The traveller's passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the traveller's arrival date and remain valid for at least 3 months after the traveller's departure from Germany. Travellers with passports including a signature section must ensure the signature section is signed. This requirement does not apply to travellers with passports that do not include a signature section.

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FAQs about travel from the United Kingdom to Germany

What if my visa application is denied?

If your visa application is denied, the first step is to review the reason for the denial provided by the German consulate or embassy. Address any issues or missing information that may have led to the denial. You may have the option to reapply with the corrected or additional information. Consulting with a visa specialist or an immigration attorney can also help you understand your next steps and improve your chances of approval on reapplication.

What if I lose my visa while in Germany?

If you lose your visa while in Germany, immediately contact the nearest embassy or consulate for assistance. They can guide you on the steps to take, which may include obtaining a replacement visa or emergency travel documents. It’s also advisable to keep digital copies of your important travel documents, including your visa and passport, to expedite the replacement process.

Can I apply for a visa to Germany online?

Yes, you can easily apply for an eVisa using the form above. British citizens can apply for both single entry and multiple entry eVisas online. The process involves filling out an application form, submitting the required documents, and paying the visa fee. Once approved, the eVisa will be sent to your email, making the application process convenient and efficient.

Are there any health requirements for visiting Germany?

Generally, no specific health checks or vaccinations are required when applying for a Germany visa. However, you should be aware of the following health-related regulations in place while in Germany:

Health Screening: While not always required, officials might ask for a health certificate or a medical exam upon arrival. This is more likely if you’re coming from an area with a health outbreak or if you show signs of illness.
COVID-19 Testing: Travellers don’t need a COVID-19 test before travelling to Germany.
Masks: Travellers don’t need to wear masks in public places.
COVID-19 Vaccination: Travellers don’t need proof of COVID-19 vaccination before travelling to Germany.
COVID-19 Testing: Travellers don’t need a COVID-19 test when transiting through Germany.
Quarantine: Travellers don’t need to quarantine on arrival in Germany.

While these are the current regulations, it is always advisable to check for any updates or changes to health requirements closer to your travel date.