Entry to Germany

Swiss nationals
Swiss nationals are exempt from the requirement of a residence permit in accordance with the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons of June 21, 1999. They do not require a visa for entry or a work permit - but should apply for a declaratory residence permit from the German immigration authority responsible for their place of residence if they are staying for more than 90 days in accordance with § 28 AufenthV. Further information can be found here.

Traveling with an expired Swiss passport
According to the annex to the EÜPV (European Agreement on the Regulation of the Movement of Persons between Member States of the Council of Europe), you can travel to Germany with a Swiss passport that has been expired for up to 5 years. However, if you are only traveling with a Swiss ID card, this must be valid. If you are traveling by plane, the airline may not accept expired ID documents. This should be clarified with the airline in advance.

Third-country nationals
Generally require a visa to enter the Federal Republic of Germany. This does not apply to nationals of EU/EEA states and other states for which the European Community has waived the visa requirement for short stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period under the Visa Regulation.

You can check whether you need a visa here:
List of countries requiring a visa

Travel authorization for minors

If your child is traveling alone or with only one custodial parent, please follow the recommendations issued by the Federal Foreign Office. You will also find a sample travel authorization form there.

Customs restrictions

Information on import and export regulations can be found on the German customs website. Practical: You can use the Customs and Travel app to view travel allowances, among other things.

Traveling with animals

The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture offers tips on planning trips with animals.

Information on customs regulations regarding the transportation of pets on your journey to or through Germany can be obtained from German customs. Information on entering Germany with dangerous dogs can be found here.

Travel destination Germany

Information about travel and destinations in Germany is provided by the German National Tourist Board. Links to general information about Germany, current news and German politics can be found here.