Germany Reopens For Tourism - Latest Update

Germany officially reopened for tourism on June 15, 2020. But like most countries around the world, Germany’s entry restrictions are changing frequently according to the COVID-19 situation and the spread of virus mutations.

Even though lockdown and stringent entry restrictions are in place, Germany’s borders are open for travelers coming from within the EU countries. German authorities have imposed entry restrictions based on the traveler’s country of residence.

Below, you will find the latest travel restrictions for Germany and the entry requirements.

Who Can Travel To Germany?

According to the G erman Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building, and Community (BMI), entry into Germany is permitted for travelers coming from within the European Union Member States and Schengen-associated countries, including Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

In addition, upon the recommendation of the EU Council, German authorities are also allowing restriction-free entry of travelers from third countries who have a lower risk of Covid-19 infections.

Below is a list of the third countries and regions whose citizens and residents are allowed to enter Germany restriction-free:

Albania
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Australia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brunei
Canada
Hong Kong
Israel
Japan
Jordan
Kosovo
Lebanon
Macao
Moldova
Montenegro
New Zealand
North Macedonia
Qatar
Serbia
Singapore
South Korea
Taiwan
Thailand
United States of America

Travelers coming from any of the countries above, as well as those coming from within the European Union Member States and Schengen-associated countries, can enter Germany for tourism purposes. All travelers are required to complete digital registration on entry, present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result depending on the risk status of the country they came from.

What Rules Apply for Fully Vaccinated Travelers

Since June 25, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers from third countries have been permitted entry into Germany as tourists. The traveler should be able to show proof that they have received both doses to be considered fully vaccinated. For those who have been previously infected with the virus and have recovered, only one dose is required. In addition, the last dose of the vaccine must be administered at least 14 days before the date of travel into Germany and the vaccine should be one of those authorized by the Paul Ehrlich Institute.

People who have been fully vaccinated can enter Germany for any purpose, including tourism, regardless of which country they came from. However, this will not apply to travelers who came from countries categorized as areas of “virus variants of concern”.

Arrivals From High-Incidence and Virus Variant Areas

Travelers who came from “high-incidence and virus variant areas”, or anyone who has stayed in these areas for more than ten days, are only allowed to enter Germany for essential purposes. If approved for entry, they are required to submit either a negative Covid-19 test result, proof of full vaccination, or proof of recovery. However, exceptions will apply to those who have passed through high incidence areas without making a stop.

For those who travel by air, a negative Covid-19 test result must be submitted before departure and another one upon entry into the country. The airline is fully responsible for checking the negative test result documentation before departure. These same rules apply to those who are traveling by bus, train, or ferry.

Anyone who has been to any of the risk areas must fill in a digital entry registration form and present the confirmation code upon entry.

What Are Other Safety Measures in Germany?

All travelers and residents should wear face masks. Most importantly when taking public transport or indoor public places.
Everyone should practice social distancing at all times.

Travelers can expect lots of spread-out dining tables, hand-washing stations, barriers, and sanitizing protocols throughout their visit to Germany.

What’s Open in Germany?

There are different rules about what is officially open in each city in Germany. However, here’s the list of what is generally open across the country: