Traveling to Germany during the Covid-19 pandemic: Essential information to prepare for your trip.

If you plan to visit Germany amidst the Covid-19 crisis, here's what you should know and what to expect during your travels.

Key information

Germany's border regulations have been evolving quickly, with regular updates to their risk lists. As of March 3, the high-risk category was eliminated, meaning no destinations are currently considered high risk in the country.

Since June, the rules for vaccination-based entry have been relaxed. Originally a temporary measure for the busy season, this change remains in place, allowing unrestricted entry for all travelers.

What’s available

Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt have long been iconic cultural centers. But Germany offers so much more beyond these well-known cities – from hiking through the Bavarian Alps to exploring the wild forests along the French border, and even an often-overlooked northern coastline. With excellent public transportation and well-connected road networks, Germany is perfect for those seeking a flexible, extended getaway.

Who is allowed entry

In short, everyone. Since June, all entry restrictions have been lifted. Anyone can visit, except those from regions labeled as having a “variant of concern” – though the listing of these countries is currently paused (see below).

What restrictions apply?

Currently, there are no entry restrictions, except for travelers arriving from areas identified as having a variant of concern.

If you've been in a 'variant of concern' area, you're not allowed to enter by rail, ship, plane, or bus. The only option is to drive, followed by a mandatory 14-day quarantine. A negative test is also required. Children under 12 are exempt. However, no areas are currently categorized as 'variant of concern'.

The Robert Koch Institute monitors the classification of countries.

What’s the current Covid situation?

Covid-19 infection rates have significantly dropped since their peak in March, when 300,000 new cases were reported in a single day. On March 17, the country recorded its highest-ever rate of 1,651 cases per 100,000 people over seven days. For comparison, when the Omicron variant emerged in November 2021, the rate was 312 per 100,000. Prior to that, the highest rate was 197.6 in December 2020.

As of October 6, Germany has reported 33.6 million Covid-19 cases and over 150,000 deaths. According to John Hopkins University's Covid-19 tracker, nearly 78% of the population is fully vaccinated.

What should visitors expect?

Although infection rates have been rising, most nationwide Covid-19 restrictions were lifted on March 20. However, individual regions or states may still impose their own measures, such as reinstating mask mandates.

The national guidelines are as follows: Masks are no longer required on planes, but are still mandatory on long-distance trains. Adults must wear FFP2 masks, while children under 14 can wear surgical masks. Children under six do not need to mask. Masks must also be worn in healthcare settings.

You no longer need to present proof of vaccination to enter shops, hotels, bars, or restaurants.

Restrictions across Germany differ by state. You can find links to each state's specific regulations on this official government page.

Helpful links

Digital registration form

BMI.bund.de

Federal Ministry of Health

Robert Koch Institute

Regional regulations

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