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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Travel Advisory May 1, 2024

Germany - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits

Exercise increased caution in Germany due to  terrorism .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups keep planning attacks in Germany. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target tourist locations and transportation hubs. They also target markets/shopping malls and local government facilities. They target hotels, clubs, and restaurants. They also attack places of worship, parks, and major sporting and cultural events. They target schools, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Germany.

If you decide to travel to Germany:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Germany.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area.

Not required for stays under 90 days.

 10,000€ (euros or equivalent).

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. EMBASSY BERLIN    Clayallee 170  14191 Berlin  Federal Republic of Germany  Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (30) 8305-1050 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL FRANKFURT Giessener Str. 30 60435 Frankfurt am Main Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (69) 7535-0 Fax: +(49) (69) 7535-2252 Passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and Citizenship:  [email protected]  All other questions:  [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL MUNICH Koeniginstrasse 5 80539 Munich Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (89) 2888-0 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) 89-2888-0 Fax: If you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number.  Email:  [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL DUSSELDORF   Willi-Becker-Allee 10  40227 Duesseldorf  Federal Republic of Germany  Telephone: +(49) (69) 7535-0 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0  Fax: +(49) (69) 7535-2252 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt. 

U.S. Consulate General Hamburg   Kehrwieder 8 20457 Hamburg  Federal Republic of Germany  Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0  Fax: +(49) (30) 8305-1050 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.  

U.S. Consulate General Leipzig   Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4  04107 Leipzig  Federal Republic of Germany  Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0  Fax: +(49) (30) 8305-1050 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Germany for information on U.S. - Germany relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• In Europe's  Schengen area , your passport generally must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. Although Germany only requires travelers to have three months of validity remaining beyond their intended departure date, airlines may still deny boarding for having less than six months validity, especially if transiting additional Schengen countries.
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.
• If traveling with prescription medication, review the information below regarding pharmaceuticals to avoid potential fines and confiscation.

Carry identification with you at all times.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, Germany.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:   Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack –including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:  

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, and celebratory gatherings)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists  
• Places of worship  
• Schools  
• Shopping malls and markets  
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.  

Crime:  Violent crime is rare in Germany, but can occur, especially in larger cities or high-risk areas such as on large metropolitan subway systems and in train stations, primarily during late night or early morning hours. Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing.  Theft and pickpocketing primarily take place at train stations, on public transportation, at tourist attractions, and at large public events.   Always pay close attention to your valuables! 

Be cautious and aware of your surroundings. 

U.S. citizens should exercise caution when congregating in known expatriate hangouts. 

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. They are illegal to bring back into the United States, and you could also be breaking local law. 

Demonstrations:  Demonstrations occur regularly in Germany. Large, public demonstrations take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations tend to take place on politically significant holidays like German Labor Day (May 1) and during international summits hosted in Germany.  Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants.    

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable; avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information prior to travel.    

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Germany. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Most scammers pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems to be too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer to them to the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate so we can work with local authorities to assist.
• If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer.

Common scams include:

• Romance/online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/relative targeting (kidnapping, arrested, medical emergency)
• Free Trip/luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobiles Devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated and using virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S.-based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app, make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police: in an emergency dial 112 for ambulance and 110 for the police and contact the U.S Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate (see contact details above). 

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . 

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys 
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States  
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation and support in Germany
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

We also maintain information on our website on how to report  child abuse situations to the local authorities.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or the Consulates General in Frankfurt or Munich for assistance. Call 110 if you are in immediate danger.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally well regulated, and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.

Germany sometimes experiences extreme weather conditions including floods, long periods of drought, and unusually harsh winters with vast amounts of snow even in urban areas. Numerous injuries and deaths occur every year in Germany’s Alpine and coastal regions. Most of the emergencies relate to the following sports:  skiing, hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, sledding, rock and mountain climbing, paragliding, and swimming. Those engaging in Alpine sports are strongly encouraged to register with  German “Alpen Verein.”

In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances: Germany has strict customs regulations concerning:

• Temporary importation or exportation of firearms
• Military artifacts (particularly those of World War II)
• Medications/pharmaceuticals
• Business equipment

Under German law it is also illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or paraphernalia that glorifies fascism, the Nazi past, or the “Third Reich.”

Contact the  German Embassy in Washington  or one of the German consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Faith-Based Travelers : See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

International Volunteers:

LGBTQI+ Travelers : There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Germany. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany. LGBTQI+ persons are protected by federal anti-discrimination laws, and LGBTQI+ Pride events are officially encouraged by most large city governments, including those in Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Munich. 

See   our page and section 6 of our   Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in some older public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure, especially outside major cities, but common in most urban infrastructure. Some older buildings and public transportation systems are less adapted to individuals with disabilities.

Check your hotel or destination to learn more about options to accommodate disabled traveler needs before visiting Germany.

The German National Tourist Board maintains  information about accessibility and disability-friendly travel .

All German airports and  Lufthansa  offer services for disabled travelers.

The German National Railway,  Deutsche Bahn , maintains a mobility resource webpage.

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Germany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescript ion and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names differ from those available in the United States.

For emergency services in Germany, dial 112.  

Ambulance services are widely available.  

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Germany.

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers, and Expatriates)
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates general do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. If you are not a resident of Germany, doctors and hospitals will expect immediate payment in cash.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas or purchase travel insurance for this purpose. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our  webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices to ensure the medication is legal in Germany. Also read the information below regarding pharmaceuticals and the documentation required to enter Germany with prescription medication.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General maintain  lists of doctors and medical services in Germany . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery 

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism.  
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Germany.  
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.   

Pharmaceuticals 

• If traveling with prescription medication, visit the  German customs website  to ensure the medication is legal in Germany.  For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.  A comprehensive list of these medications can be found   here.   If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a  certification form .  You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.”  As there is no such authority in the United States, travelers may have the doctor self-certify the form and enter the information of his or her practice in part E, ideally with a stamp or seal from their office.  Due to Germany’s strict customs regulations, you are not allowed to receive prescription medication by mail without special permission.  Always carry your prescription.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.   
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.    

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy   

If you are considering traveling overseas to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .  

• All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany. For additional information, see  this webpage of the German Foreign Ministry  (German language only).

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States, but driver error is a leading cause of accidents involving U.S. citizen motorists in Germany.

If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license, you can drive in  Germany for up to six months  without acquiring a German driver’s license. Many German traffic laws and traffic signs differ significantly from those in the United States. For more information, please visit the U.S. embassy’s webpage on  driving in Germany .

Speed limits are posted on large stretches of the highway, on the Autobahn in urban areas, and when the road has many curves. Although high speeds are permitted on the Autobahn, adverse weather conditions and unfamiliar road markings pose significant hazards. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Use of seat belts is mandatory in front and back seats. Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks. Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle must be in your vehicle at all times. In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow tires or all-season tires (indicated by M+S marking) or you will be subject to a fine.

Bicycles: German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. Bicycles have priority use of bike lanes over pedestrians and automobiles. Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. If you are driving, check whether a bicyclist is approaching from either direction before attempting to enter side streets, even when the light is in your favor. You will be held responsible for any injury or damage caused if you turn into a side street and hit a bicyclist using a marked bike lane. If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes. 

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in a traffic accident in Germany, even a minor fender-bender, you MUST stay with your vehicle and not leave the scene until police arrive to take a report. It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Germany. Except on priority roads, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way. It is generally illegal in Germany to pass vehicles on the right. Germans strictly observe the ‘slower traffic keep right’ rule. It is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher. You may be fined, and your driver’s license may be suspended for specified periods of time, depending upon the gravity of each violation. 

Public Transportation: Germany has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. Metered taxis are also prevalent throughout Germany. Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany. Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation. 

Strikes in Germany may disrupt public transportation and travel plans.  We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information prior to travel.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Germany’s  Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMVI) , the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Germany’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Germany should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Germany . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

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The Passport 3 Month Rule - Country Requirements & More

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

Are you ready to plan an international trip? Before booking your tickets and traveling abroad, make that the validity of your passport is up-to-date. One crucial part of this process usually overlooked by people is the 3-month rule enforced by certain countries.

Even if your passport has not expired yet, there are places you cannot travel to or through unless you have at least 90 days' worth of validity remaining before the expiration date. These passport requirements are not negotiable.

If you are looking to travel internationally, you need to be prepared with a passport that will allow you to travel to and through all the countries on your itinerary.

Short Summary

• The 3-month passport validity rule requires passports to be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended date of arrival, with exceptions and special cases.
• It is important to research entry requirements, obtain necessary visas in advance, and verify a passport's expiration date before traveling.
• If your passport does not have enough validity remaining, you will need to apply in person at a regional passport agency. Alternatively, our expert advice is to enlist the help of a registered passport expediting service to get your passport renewed as fast as possible .
• Emergency situations may require contacting one's home nation embassy or consulate to apply for emergency passport renewal service .

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

Understanding the 3-Month Passport Validity Rule

The 3-month passport validity rule mandates that a passport is valid for up to three months after the anticipated date of arrival. This regulation is in place to prevent illegal residency and guarantee travelers possess legal passports throughout their stay. Simply put, if you don't have the right travel documents, countries will deny you entry across their borders.

It's important for people intending to travel abroad to be informed about their destination country's rules about expiring passports. These differ from one nation to another.

While some countries require just a 3 month validity period, others might have different passport validity requirements. Some simply require a valid passport at time of entry. Many countries require more.

For example, many countries impose 6 month passport validity rules where individuals must have at least six additional months left before their passport expires. In some cases, requirements include other validity periods based on the nature of the traveler's stay and the corresponding visa.

To learn more, be sure to check out our guide to the six month validity rule for passports . We also maintain a list of countries that require six months of validity for entry.

Europe, The Schengen Agreement, and the 3-Month Rule

Many European countries are a part of the Schengen Agreement. This decades-old agreement between 27 European countries was designed to make travel within member nations faster, more efficient, and less expensive.

The agreement requires travelers to have valid passports during their stay, and it is governed by a 3-month passport validity rule. This same rule is also imposed by most other non-member nations across Europe in order to ensure that visitors do not overstay beyond their visa period.

Because of this common policy, countries can more efficiently monitor movement at their borders while reducing any risks connected with extended visits.

If you are planning to travel to Europe, be sure to read more about the Schengen Agreement , its rules, and its history.

Countries with a 3-Month Passport Validity Requirement

Again, passport validity is a critical factor for anyone planning international travel. Many European countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement require passports to be valid at least three months after an intended date of departure, including France, Germany, Italy and Spain among others.

Aside from these nations within Europe's borders, other non-European states impose this same 3 month passport rule too. Albania, Guatemala, and Panama being some popular examples.

It is important to research the passport policies for each country you plan on visiting. This is the only way to make sure you don't have hiccups during your travels due to invalid passports or failure to meet requirements regarding particular validity periods (which may also include six month rules). Ensure your U.S. passport holds sufficient time before leaving home by double checking beforehand!

Schengen Area Countries

The following countries are part of the Schengen Agreement and require 3 months of validity remaining on your U.S. passport:

*Travel through the microstates of Monaco , San Marino, and Vatican City are also governed by the Schengen Agreement.

It's necessary that all people in transit through any of these 27 signatory nations are certain their passports maintain at least 90 days of validity throughout the duration of their travels.

Other Countries That Require 3 Months Passport Validity

Be advised that passport validity requirements can change with little notice, so please pay attention to these rules when traveling internationally so you don't stumble upon unexpected complications!

For instance, be sure to pay attention to whether the three month validity rule is calculated based on your date of entry or anticipated date of departure from your desitnation country.

As of 2023, the countries listed below have a 3-month validity rule for U.S. passport holders:

Traveling to Countries with a 3-Month Rule: Tips and Advice

When it comes to passport validity, researching the passport requirements and regulations of each destination country is key to a successful trip.

Check your passport expiration date

Check if you need a visa.

Certain countries might require a travel visa while others allow you to enter without one. Visas are issued based on why you are traveling (e.g. tourism, school , work , business , etc.). The types and lengths of each visa is determined by each country's bilateral agreements with the United States.

Like passports, visas can take time to acquire, so make sure any permits are obtained well in advance of your trip. Even though some countries offer visas on arrival , there can be issues if you are relying on this type of service.

Be prepared for emergency situations.

Even if you plan on a short trip to a destination with a low (or no) validity rules, you want to be sure you are covered in case you have to stay longer due to a medical or personal emergency. Should you need to travel internationally in a hurry, you want to be sure your passport allows you to take the most direct and efficient route without having to worry about whether your passport has enough months remaining before it expires.

As a rule, it is wise to prepare yourself before any trips by having contingency plans ready just in case anything unpredicted may occur during your trip abroad. There is a chance an unexpected emergency may require you to travel to or through a country with a three or six month validity rule. If your passport has plenty of validity left, this is something you won't have to worry about.

In case of an emergency abroad, such as a lost or stolen passport , you should contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for help. You will not be able to continue your travels without a passport-no matter what the validity rules are for the countries you need to travel to or through.

Based on over 20 years of helping readers with their passport related questions, our best advice is to maintain a valid passport with at least 9 months of validity or more. When your passport gets within a year of its expiration date, don't delay; renew it!

How to Renew Your Passport and Reset Your Passport Validity

Again, if you plan to travel internationally and your passport will not be valid for three months or more, don't wait. Renew your passport as soon as possible. This will ensure you have access to any country that allows American travelers-even if it has a three or six month validity requirement.

To get yourself a new or renewed passport, you need to send an application form along with the required supporting documentation , current passport photos , and pay the passport application fees .

It should be taken into account that the time needed for this renewal process may vary, so making sure everything's in order beforehand can help avoid issues during travel plans. Currently, the time to process a passport application is 6 to 8 weeks . An expedited application will be processed in 2 to 3 weeks .

Be sure to take into account these current processing times for renewal applications before planning any international trips. Also be advised that you will need to submit your current passport as part of the passport renewal process. This means you will not be able to travel internationally until your renewed passport arrives.

Visit our complete guide to renewing a U.S. passport for step-by-step instructions for how to get your passport renewed and our best tips for speeding up the process.

Expedited Passport Services

For those who require a new passport or need to renew theirs in a hurry, expedited services are available. Choosing expedited passport renewal on your application can save you several weeks of waiting for your new travel document, but it may not be fast enough for your needs.

For a faster passport renewal, you can try to make an appointment at one of the 26 regional processing agencies across the U.S. Know that you will need to demonstrate a need to travel internationally within 14 days. This option also includes several additional costs that must be considered.

The fastest and most efficient way to get a passport renewed is through a passport expediting service . These professionals use their expertise and experience to get you a passport faster than you likely can on your own. While they charge a fee for their services, these fees are often much less than what it costs to travel to a regional passport agency on your own and potentially wait days for your new passport to be issued.

Should you opt to go this route, consult our directory of top passport expediters .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i travel with less than 3 months on my passport.

When planning any international travel, it is important to ensure that your passport will be valid for the duration of your trip and beyond. You should have at least three months remaining on your passport before going abroad. Many countries may require a validity period of six months or more.

Most airlines refuse boarding if you don't meet this requirement, so make sure you check in advance! To avoid issues while traveling overseas. For maximum travel flexibility, make certain that there's still enough time left on your passport by checking that it is valid for at least six months after departure dates from each destination on your itinerary.

Can I travel with 2 months on my passport?

Most countries require that your passport remain valid for a minimum of either three or six months beyond the duration of your trip. If you are planning to travel to one of these locations, you can't travel with only two months left. You likely will not even be able to board your international flight as most airlines deny boarding if relevant passport requirements for the destination country are not met.

To make sure that you are able to have a secure and safe journey, be certain to check all details in advance like dates or other information about any passports used before taking off.

However, some countries require only that your passport is valid upon entry. For peace of mind, always be sure your passport has enough extra validity remaining to account for any potential emergencies or disruptions to your travel plans.

Can I travel to Mexico if my passport expires in 3 months?

As long as your passport is still valid for the duration of the trip, you may go to Mexico even if it's expiring in three months. Mexican travel regulations don't mandate any minimum validity period for passports.

Can I travel to Canada if my passport expires in 3 months?

You can go to Canada as long as you have a valid passport during your stay-even if it's expiring in three months. Canadian travel requirements do not have any minimum validity period for U.S. passport holders.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting .

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Germany Visa and Passport Requirements

EU nationals : You are not required to show a passport or national ID card when entering Germany. However, transport providers like airlines, train operators and ferry companies will require you to show your passport or ID card to prove your identity.

Non-EU nationals : To enter Germany, you must have a valid passport issued within the past ten years and with at least three months left (after the day you plan to leave). You must also have a return ticket and sufficient funds for the length of your stay.

Germany is a Schengen country, but beware that EU members such as Cyprus and Ireland are not part of the Schengen area, so a passport or ID card is required if travelling to/from these countries.

Passport Note

From November 10, 2024, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will register all travelers entering the Schengen area using fingerprints and biometric passport photos who do not have EU citizenship and either require a short-term visa to enter or are visa-exempt. The Entry/Exit System (EES) is intended to replace manual entry stamps and thereby save time.

EU nationals : You don't need a visa for Germany if the stay is less than 90 days. Those who plan to live in Germany longer, please see the information below the header Temporary Residence.

For more information about Schengen visas, follow the link to the article A guide to Schengen visas .

ETIAS travel authorisation : Starting in mid 2025, all visitors who currently do not need a visa to visit 30 European countries will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation .

Types and Cost

Schengen visa €90 for those who are above 12 years old, €45 for children aged six to 12, and free for children below six.

In addition, the visa fee is waived for the following applicants: • School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training. • Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research. • Representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organised by non-profit organisations. • Family members of EU/EEA (European Economic Area) citizens, falling under Directive 2004/38.

Up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Citizens of some countries need an airport transit visa when transiting through international parts of any airports within the Schengen countries, whereas citizens of certain countries are only required a transit visa for some of the Schengen countries. If you are not from a Schengen visa exempt country, please check with a German consulate near you.

Application to

Contact the embassy, high commission or consulate.

Schengen Visas

Germany is a Schengen country, so the Schengen visa scheme applies.

Temporary residence

EU nationals and citizens of EEA (Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein): Will need a residence permit for more than 90 days. However, please note that citizens of Romania and Bulgaria will require a work permit issued by the Employment Agency.

Non-EU nationals: Will need a visa to stay in Germany for more than 90 days.

Working days

Schengen visa applications usually take 15 to 21 calendar days, but sometimes up to 45 days. Be mindful of the national holidays in Germany as they may affect the processing time. It is recommended to submit applications at least four weeks prior to departure.

Sufficient Funds

Schengen visa applicants must be able to provide proof of funds to cover their stay.

Extension of stay

Schengen visa holders with a visa valid for less than 90 days can only extend their visas in exceptional circumstances, such as force majeure or for humanitarian reasons.

Entry with pets

When bringing a pet from another EU country, the animal must have a microchip or tattoo, an EU pet passport and a valid rabies vaccination certificate (the vaccination must have taken place at least 21 days prior to travel). Animals from outside the EU must also have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. Depending on whether your pet is from a high-rabies country or a rabies-controlled country, your pet either has to be vaccinated first or microchipped first. For pets from high-rabies countries, a rabies titer test also has to be administered 30 days after the vaccination. A veterinary certificate issued by an authorised veterinarian is also required when entering Germany with a pet from outside of the EU.

Please check with the consulate directly for the appropriate procedures.

Embassies and tourist offices

British embassy in germany.

Mon-Fri 0900-1730.

Embassy of Germany in the USA

Mon-Thu 0800-1200 and 1300-1500; Fri 0800-1200 and 1300-1400.

Embassy of Germany in the UK

Mon-Fri by appointment only.

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What are you looking for?

I don't need a visa for my trip to germany, but are there other things i should bear in mind.

You can only enter Germany if you have valid identity papers. On the planned date of departure from Germany, your passport has to be valid at least for another three months and it has to be issued within the last 10 years.

In certain cases, documents have to be presented that prove the purpose and circumstances of the visit.

Similarly, proof may also have to be provided that you have sufficient funds to maintain yourself during your stay and to finance the return trip. The amount of funding depends on the type and length of stay. There are no fixed daily rates.

You are advised to take out health insurance before your trip which also covers return transport to your home country.

In cases of repeated entries and a longer duration foreigners who are not nationals of a European Union or European Economic Area state must bear in mind that visits to the Schengen area are restricted to 90 days in any period of 180 days.

For longer stays for example to study or take up employment, different regulations often apply.

• What is the procedure for applying for a work visa?
• What is the procedure for applying for a student visa?
• Visa regulations
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What are you looking for?

Passport for adults.

Here you will find information on which supporting documentation you need to submit when applying for a biometric passport. Please bring to the appointment the completed application as well as all required documentation in the original.

Issuing passports (for applicants over the age of 18)

The validity of the German biometric passport is 6 years for applicants under the age of 24, otherwise it is 10 years.

Please note: German biometric passports cannot be extended. Once invalid, you will have to apply for a new passport. Please be aware that you will have to re-submit all relevant documents as listed below for each application.

Applications for passports can only be submitted in person at the Embassy, your responsible Consulate General, or some Honorary Consuls during opening hours after scheduling an appointment . If you would like to apply with a Honorary Consul please check their regulations for fees and payment methods . As of 11/01/2007, the applications cannot be mailed in anymore. During the appointment, your finger prints will be taken. Please bear in mind that due to privacy protection, the German Mission can only save the fingerprints for a brief period of time and will then delete them.

The passports are printed at the Federal Printing Office in Berlin. Please expect a processing time of about 6 to 8 weeks. If a Name Declaration is required (see below information), processing time can change considerably.

Required Documents

The following documents are required in the original for the application:

• completed application form Application form PDF / 635 KB
• two identical biometric recent passport photos (Please do not cut the photos yourself!) Sample Photos for Passports PDF / 550 KB
• your birth certificate stating the exact place of birth (it is not sufficient if only the county is mentioned on the US birth certificate, a “proof of birth letter” issued by the hospital with the name of the town must then also be provided)
• if married, divorced or widowed: marriage certificate, if applicable divorce decree or death certificate of the spouse
• previous passport (data page with photo)
• Non-US-Citizens: valid residence permit in the US (US Resident Alien Card, US residence visa) and passport - Information for holders of a greencard without expiration date
• US-Residents: Proof of Acquisition of US-Citizenship (e. g. US birth-certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, US Certificate of Naturalization with retention permit) and US-passport
• if the last name in your previous passport is not the same as the last name you currently use, a name declaration might have to be done. Please consider the Information on Name Declaration
• Proof of current name usage (i.e. one of the following: German birth certificate, German marriage certificate or if married outside of Germany, certificate of current name usage issued by the registrar’s office in Germany)
• if applicable, German Naturalization Certificate
• if applicable, US Naturalization Certificate with “Beibehaltungsgenehmigung”
• your US driver's license or an utility bill in your name as proof of residence
• if applicable, deregistration of your last place of residence in Germany (“Abmeldebescheinigung”), if it is entered in your last passport
• if you wish to have your doctoral degree entered in your passport, proof of residency and your old passport or German ID card with entry of your doctoral degree must be presented. If the doctoral degree is to be entered in the passport for the first time, your doctoral degree certificate must be submitted (the certificate should contain at least your first and last name, as well as your date of birth).
• Only for adult first time applicants: If one of your parents has had German citizenship at the time of your birth and if you therefore have obtained German citizenship by birth and not by naturalization, we need the following additional documents: o Passports of both of your parents (data page with a photo) o In case one parent is a US citizen without a passport: That parent’s driver’s license or State ID o Valid US residence title of the German parent (US Resident Alien Card or US visa) o Parents’ marriage certificate
• Passport fee
• In addition, some German missions in the United States require that a stamped envelope for mailing your documents already be submitted at the time of application. The missions abroad that have this requirement will inform you of this in your appointment booking confirmation.

We would like to point out that your passport application cannot be processed unless the aforementioned documentation is complete. If you do not bring all of the required forms and supporting documentation, you may be required to reschedule your appointment and there will be a delay in processing your application.

Even if you received your last passport at a German mission in the US, we ask you to submit the aforementioned documentation once more (except for the deregistration certificate). In particular, please also bring birth certificates, name declarations and marriage certificates. Your application cannot be processed without the required documents!

This information refers to the majority of the cases occurring here. Due to the complexity of the German passport and German ID law and the diversity of possible scenarios, differences may occur in each application, and additional documentation could be required as needed.

To read more about the protection of your data and privacy when applying for a German passport, please click here .

A current list of fees can be found here: fees

Name Declaration

If your name changed since your last passport application, a Name Declaration may be required, before a passport can be issued. An appointment may be required. Even if your current German passport carries your desired name already, there might still be more documents or name declarations necessary to prove your name. More information regarding Naming Law can be found here: Naming Law

Scheduling an appointment

It is necessary that you schedule an appointment at the appropriate German Mission in the US, in order to apply for a passport or ID Card. If you would like to apply for both a passport and ID card, you need to book two appointments, one for each application. Please consider the information about the right appointment procedure at the German mission that is responsible for your home state: Appointments

Please note that for the time being the Safari browser is incompatible with the appointment booking system.

If you do not know which German mission is responsible for your home state, you can find out here: Consulate Finder

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Visa Requirements for Germany

If you're planning a trip to Germany , it's likely you'll be able to visit without applying for a special visa. Travelers from more than 50 countries and territories —including the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Japan, and Mexico   —are exempt from needing a visa for visiting Germany for a period of 90 days or less within a six-month period. The only thing you need is a valid passport that doesn't expire for at least three months after the date you plan to return home, so if you're thinking about making a trip to Germany, now is a good time to check the expiration date of your passport .

If your trip to Germany is part of a larger trip around Europe, the same visa rules apply to the 26 countries that make up the area known as the Schengen Area . You can cross borders without any international checkpoints within the Schengen Area, and the 90-day limit applies to the entire area, not each individual country. Countries that are a part of this agreement include Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

There are two broad types of visas depending on how long you plan to stay in Germany: the Schengen Tourist Visa and long-term national visas. The former is for nationals from non-exempt countries who plan to visit Germany or the Schengen Area, giving them the same rights as visa-exempt nationals to travel freely for 90 days.

Long-term national visas are specific to Germany and are required for any non-EU citizen who plans to spend more than 90 days in the country to live, work, or study. Normally, foreign nationals are required to apply for the appropriate visa before arriving in Germany and then obtain a long-term residence permit once they settle in.

However, citizens of the United States, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, and South Korea are able to apply for their residence permit in Germany without obtaining a visa, just like EU nationals.   Instead of applying for a visa before moving to Germany as is usually required, citizens with a passport from one of these countries can start and finish the immigration process after arrival.

For example, an American citizen living in the United States is offered a new job in Germany. That individual can pack up and move to Germany—along with their immediate family members—without ever stepping foot into a German consulate in the U.S. The American citizen enters Germany as a tourist and is allowed to stay in the country for 90 days, during which time they must apply for their long-term residence permit at the local foreigner's office—or Ausländerbehörde— to continue living and working in Germany.

Schengen Tourist Visa

If you have a passport from one of the non-exempt countries , you'll need to apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa in order to visit Germany. Travelers with the visa can visit Germany and the other Schengen countries for up to 90 days, and may be permitted to leave and re-enter the Schengen Area or not, depending on the conditions of the visa.

Visa Fees and Application

First, you'll need to make sure you apply for your Schengen Tourist Visa at the right consulate. If your trip is only to Germany or you'll be spending the most days in Germany, then submit your application to the nearest German consulate in your home country. If you'll be spending an equal number of days between Germany and another country or countries, apply at the consulate for the Schengen country where you arrive first.

When you show up for your appointment at the German consulate, you'll need to provide:

• Schengen Visa application
• Valid passport
• Two identical photos (35 millimeters by 45 millimeters)
• Travel insurance policy
• Roundtrip flight itinerary
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or notarized letters from hosts in France)
• Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, pay stubs, proof of employment, etc.)

The fee for the Schengen Tourist Visa is 80 euros,   payable at the current exchange rate in the local currency, but discounts and waivers are available for certain groups, such as European nationals from countries not in the EU, students or teachers traveling for education purposes, and young children.

Turnaround for completed applications takes anywhere from two days to two weeks, depending on the nationality of the applicant. You should apply for your tourist visa at least three weeks before you plan to depart to be sure you receive it in time.

Student Visa

Germany offers two main types of student visas , one for students who have been accepted into a school and another for potential students who need to be in Germany to apply. For both visas, you'll need to demonstrate that you have the necessary language skills if your program is in German and the funds to sustain yourself while living abroad.

If you've already been accepted into a German school, you'll need to show your letter of acceptance and also any relevant degrees or schoolwork that are prerequisites of the program, for example, your undergraduate diploma if you're starting a master's degree. Once you're in Germany, you'll need to apply to convert your visa into a residence permit.

The visa for potential students allows visa-holders to stay in Germany for three months—renewable up to six months—while they search and apply for academic programs. Even if you can enter Germany as a tourist without a visa for three months, you'll still need to apply for the student applicant visa before moving. The student applicant visa allows you to apply for and obtain your residency card in Germany, assuming you are accepted into an academic program. If you don't have the student applicant visa, you'll need to return to your home country and start the entire visa process from there.

The student visa fee is 75 euros, payable in the current exchange rate of the local currency.

If you'll be living and earning money in Germany and you aren't from a visa-exempt country, you'll need to apply for a work visa before moving. Work visas apply to those who have already been hired by a German company, self-employed individuals, entrepreneurs, or highly qualified job-seekers who want to look for work in Germany.

You'll need to provide ample documentation to show your job and skills, depending on the type of work visa you're applying for. Examples include a work contract with the salary stated, a professional license or degree, a detailed business plan, and a portfolio of work. Most important, you'll need to demonstrate that you'll have the funds to support yourself while living in Germany, either through your own savings or from the salary of your new position.

The work visa fee is 75 euros, which you'll pay during the appointment at the current exchange rate in the local currency.

Family Reunion Visa

Both German citizens and legal residents are able to bring immediate family members to Germany to live with them by applying for a family reunion visa . Eligible relatives include their same-sex or opposite-sex spouse, fiance, minor children, and parents. If the applicant is from one of the visa-exempt countries, they can move to Germany without applying for a visa and request their residence permit upon arrival.

For those who do need a visa, the documents that you'll need to turn into the German consulate are:

• Completed application form
• Declaration of Accuracy of Information
• Valid passport of applicant
• Passport copy of sponsoring family member
• Passport-sized photos
• Certificate that verifies relation (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate, filing for intended marriage, etc.)
• At least A1 level of German language (exceptions apply)
• Proof of housing in Germany
• Letter of invitation from sponsoring family member

The fee structure depends on if the family member already living in Germany is a German citizen or a legal resident. The family members of German citizens can submit their visa application at no cost, while family members of legal residents must pay the standard national visa fee of 75 euros, payable in local currency.

Visa Overstays

If you're visiting Germany from a visa-exempt country—including the U.S.—you can only be in the country and the surrounding Schengen Area for 90 days out of a 180-day period. To find out if it applies to you, just pull out a calendar and find the last date you expect to be in a Schengen country. Then, count backward for six months and count up each day you spent in a Schengen country during that time. If the number of days is more than 90, you'll need to leave earlier or risk overstaying your visa.

The exact punishment for overstaying your visa depends on the country you're caught in and your unique situation, but Germany is notoriously strict. Possible punishments include a fine, deportation, incarceration, and the inability to return to the Schengen Area for a period of time.

Extending Your Visa

Extending your Schengen tourist visa isn't easy to do, but it is possible in extreme circumstances. In Germany, you can only request an extension at the Berlin Immigration Office at Lise-Meitner-Straße.

You'll need documentation that supports your justification for staying longer and possible reasons include a medical emergency, a natural disaster, a crisis in your home country, or an unforeseeable funeral, but the decision to extend your visa is entirely at the discretion of the official who helps you. The most important piece is to apply for the extension before your current visa expires. If you wait too long, you'll have already overstayed your visa and you may be deported immediately.

Eur-Lex. " Regulation (EU) 2018/1806. " November 14, 2018.

German Federal Foreign Office. " Visa for Germany. " November 13, 2017.

German Federal Foreign Office. " Visa Fees. " February 2, 2020.

Visa Requirements for Italy

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Visa Requirements for France

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Visa Requirements for Sweden

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Visa Requirements for Cambodia

Visa Requirements For Thailand

Visa Requirements for Canada

Visa Requirements for Brazil

Visa Requirements for Australia

Visa Requirements for India

Visa Requirements for Vietnam

• Application process for Germany VISA
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• Germany Visa Fees
• Do I need a Visa for short stays in Germany?
• How to Get Flight Itinerary and Hotel Booking for Visa Application
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Plan for Germany

For a smooth German visa application process, it’s crucial to ensure your passport meets the following requirements –

Passport Requirements for German Visa

• Validity – Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay in Germany. This means that if you plan to stay in Germany for 90 days, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
• Blank Pages – Your passport should have a minimum of two blank pages. This is necessary for visa stamps and other immigration-related stamps upon entry and exit.
• Issuance Date – Your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years. German authorities typically require passports to be relatively recent to ensure the accuracy of the information and security features. Even if your passport has been extended beyond its original validity period by your home country’s authorities, it must still have been issued within the past decade to be accepted for a German visa.

Importance of Meeting Requirements

Meeting these requirements is essential for a successful German visa application. Failing to meet any of these criteria may result in delays or rejection of your visa application. Therefore, it’s crucial to check your passport’s validity, blank pages, and issuance date well in advance of your planned travel to Germany.

Ensuring that your passport meets these requirements is crucial for a smooth visa application process and hassle-free travel to Germany. If your passport falls short of any of these criteria, it’s advisable to obtain a new passport before initiating the visa application process to avoid any complications.

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Passport Validity For Travel To Germany

Germany Travel and Passport Validity Requirements

Traveling to Germany requires a valid passport and potentially other documents such as a visa or residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may need a German Tourist or Schengen visa even if you already hold a foreign passport. To remain in Germany legally, you must have a valid passport that remains in effect for at least six months beyond the planned duration of stay.

Travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and more than 60 other countries may enter Germany without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries must check with the German embassy or consulate in their home countries to determine what documents are necessary for entry. It’s important to note that a passport must still be valid for the duration of your planned stay in the country, regardless of the visa requirements for entry.

EU citizens with a valid EU passport are allowed to stay in Germany for a maximum of three months without any additional documents or formalities, other than identification. Swiss citizens are not EU citizens but may stay in Germany without a visa, as long as their passport remains valid for the duration of the stay.

Foreign visitors must present their passport at the airport upon arrival in Germany and at all German border crossings. Even if a visa is not necessary, all foreigners are required to complete a landing registration form. Visitors from non-EU countries should keep the original of their landing registration form, which must be presented when leaving the country.

Extending Your Stay in Germany

If you’d like to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a residency permit. This permit must be requested in advance and will usually only be granted if you have a certain purpose in mind for your stay in Germany.

This applies to all visitors who are not in possession of an EU or Swiss passport. The residency permit must be applied for at the local foreigners’ registration authority before the initial three-month period ends. Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to apply for a special visa or endorsement to extend your stay.

Unless otherwise specified on the permit, it will remain valid for six to twelve months or until the date of expiration of your passport, whichever comes first. If you need to extend your residency permit for more than one year, this must be done at least two to four weeks prior to the expiry of your current permit.

You should also know that it is illegal to overstay your visa or residency permit in Germany. If you break this law, you may be issued a fine and/or lose the ability to apply for future permits or visas.

Minors and Passport Validity

Passport validity regulations are similar for minors travelling to Germany, with the exception of those legally living in the EU or the Schengen Area. For those minors, a valid identity card is adequate for travel purposes, as long as it is issued by an EU/Schengen member state and is still valid during the planned stay.

Minors who are not EU/Schengen nationals and plan on travelling with their parents will need to meet certain requirements. For instance, a valid passport is mandatory, but in most cases, the parents must be included in the minor’s passport. This helps eliminate the minor from staying in Germany without parental consent.

Even if the minor has their own passport, and it is valid for the duration of their stay, the minor must still be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. For safety reasons, separate permission or guardianship documents might be requested by the border officials in case the parents are travelling separately from the minors.

It is important to remember that passport validity requirements are set in place to ensure that foreigners can travel and stay in Germany legally and safely. Both EU and non-EU/Schengen nationals should take into consideration the passport validity requirements when travelling to Germany, in order to avoid any potential legal issues during their stay.

Security & Safety Requirements

Germany has placed certain security and safety rules and requirements in place for those travelling to the country. It is a good idea to become familiar with these before your trip as failure to abide by these requirements may result in severe penalties.

For example, it is a legal requirement to carry government-issued ID at all times in Germany. This can be a passport, driver’s license, EU ID card, or refugee visa. It is also illegal to take photographs of sites which may contain military installations, such as monuments or government buildings. Some areas, such as private property or military installations, are off-limits to photographers.

When travelling around Germany, especially to smaller villages, travelers should remember that some smaller restaurants, shops or markets may not accept credit cards and may only take cash. It is always a good idea to inquire about payment methods before ordering food or services.

Cultural Norms & Customs

Every country has their own set of cultural norms and customs, and Germany is no exception. Germans take their culture, traditions, and etiquette very seriously, and it is important to be aware of some of these norms, if only to avoid causing unintentional offense.

The concept of ‘Pünktlichkeit’ (punctuality) is highly valued in German culture, so if you have an appointment or meeting, aim to be on time. Being late is seen as a sign of disrespect towards the person you are meeting, as well as to German customs in general.

Germans usually greet each other with a handshake (sometimes semi-firm) while making direct eye contact. When meeting somebody for the first time, it is polite to introduce yourself with your full name and ask the other person for their name. Traditional German meals are usually eaten with a knife and fork, and it is considered inappropriate to take seconds before everyone has been served.

Healthcare & Insurance

Germany has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and it is important to familiarise yourself with the options available to travellers. Visitors to Germany will need to have valid health insurance for the duration of their stay, in order to cover any potential medical expenses. Those with an EU/EEA passport or valid visa may apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

This card is valid for up to five years and entitles citizens of EU/EEA countries to certain benefits, such as reduced cost or free medical treatment in Germany. Travelers from outside EU/EEA countries will need to purchase private health insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay in Germany.

The kind of coverage provided by private insurance may vary, so make sure to check the details before purchasing a policy. As a general rule, any valid private health insurance should cover medical treatment in Germany including doctor’s visits, hospital stays, as well as any prescriptions medicines.

Packing & Preparation Tips

Travelling to Germany is an exciting experience, and you will want to make sure that you know exactly what to pack. In general, German travellers opt for casual and comfortable clothing in neutral colours. Make sure to check the forecast a few days before your trip, and pack plenty of lightweight layers in order to be prepared for fluctuating weather.

Other important items to pack include a printed or digital copy of the passport, visa, and any other important documents. A traveller’s first-aid kit should also be included, in case of any minor injuries or ailments. A waterproof jacket or umbrella, sunglasses, lip balm, and a hat are also very useful items to have while travelling around Germany.

Finally, depending on your personal preferences and your itinerary, you should also consider taking a few items to entertain yourself in your free time. This can be anything from a good book and headphones to a journal and portable games.

Jessica Stewart

Jessica T. Stewart is an experienced writer and researcher with a passion for exploring German culture and history. Through her writing, Jessica hopes to bridge the gap between German and English-speaking cultures and foster greater understanding of Germany's rich history.

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• NETHERLANDS
• SWITZERLAND

Official issues

The german passport (deutscher reisepass).

If you have German citizenship , you might consider applying for a German passport ( deutscher Reisepass ). For German nationals, having a passport is necessary for travelling to most countries outside of the European Union. Moreover, if you do not have an identity card, you might actually need a German passport, as the law requires all German citizens to have a valid form of identification.

How to apply for a German passport

To apply for a German passport ( Reisepass beantragen ) you can make an appointment at the citizens’ office ( Bürgeramt ) in the municipality in which you are registered . You can also apply at citizens’ offices in other municipalities but you may have to pay a supplementary fee. You must attend the appointment in person; it is not possible for someone else to apply on your behalf.

Documents needed for a passport application

You must bring the following with you to your appointment:

• A recent photo that meets the government’s strict passport photo requirements (in German).
• Documents that prove your identity and your German nationality (e.g. a current or expired passport or identity card, and your German naturalisation certificate, if applicable).

At the appointment they will also take fingerprints from your left and right index fingers, to be stored in a special chip in the passport.

Children’s passport

In 2012, a new EU ruling came into effect, requiring all children to have their own form of identification and making it impossible for them to travel internationally on their parents’ passports. Parents in Germany were therefore given the option of either applying for a regular, biometric passport for their children (as above), or applying for a children’s passport ( Kinderpass ) through the same process.

The  Kinderpass  had the advantages of being cheaper and taking less time to process, but as it held a maximum validity of one year and was not recognised by many countries around the world and in some cases within the EU, in October 2023 the German government voted to abolished the  Kinderpass . 

As of January 1, 2024, therefore, children's passports can no longer be reissued, extended or updated in Germany. However, any children's passports that have already been issued can continue to be used until the end of their validity, at which point the parents will be required to apply for a regular biometric passport for their child. You can see which countries accept the Kinderpass   on the Foreign Office website. 

How much does a German passport cost?

The cost of applying for a German passport depends on your age, location, and how quickly you need it. If you are a frequent traveller, you can also pay to have extra pages for visa stamps.

German passport application fees 2024

German passport applications processing time.

Your new passport will be manufactured centrally at the Federal Printing Office in Berlin . From the time of application, it usually takes three to six weeks before you can pick it up from the citizens' office. You can also authorise someone to collect it for you by providing a signed letter of consent.  

If you need your passport quicker, you can apply for the express option. If you submit your application before midday, your passport will usually be ready to pick up three working days later. A supplement is payable if you choose this option.

How to apply for a German passport from abroad

If you are a German citizen living abroad and you would like to apply for a German passport, you can do this at the German mission in your country of residence. You are required to make an appointment in advance, fill in a passport application form and then attend the appointment with all your required documents.

As of 2007, it is no longer possible to submit passport applications via post . This is due to the fact that all applicants now have to submit two fingerprints to be stored in the special chip in the passport. These fingerprints will be taken at your appointment.

It usually takes around four to six weeks to process a German passport abroad, as all documents are printed at the Federal Printing Office in Berlin. If any additional information is needed, it can take even longer. It is therefore essential to start the application process well in advance of any travel plans.

Period of validity of a German passport

German passports are valid for 10 years for adults and for six years for youths under the age of 24. The children’s passport is also valid for six years or until the child reaches the age of 12.

How do I renew a German passport?

If your German passport is close to expiring, you must request a new one by following the above procedure. If you need to travel during the processing time and your old passport is still valid, it may be possible to keep it until your new one is ready.

What to do if your passport is lost or stolen in Germany

While you are in Germany, if you misplace your passport or it is stolen, the action you should take depends on which country issued it.

Lost German passport in Germany

If your German passport is lost or stolen, you are required to report it to the responsible passport office (usually your local citizens’ office) as soon as possible. You must also inform the office if you later find the passport that you reported lost. The same applies to children’s passports. The office will inform the German police of the loss.

You will need to apply for a new passport following the same procedure as above. If you need to travel urgently, you could use the express service or alternatively it is possible to apply for a temporary passport (valid for maximum one year) that covers you until your permanent one arrives. This usually costs around 26 euros.  

Lost foreign passport in Germany

If your non-German passport is lost or stolen in Germany you should immediately report this to the police and ask them to issue you with a notice of loss or theft. You can then contact your closest embassy to arrange an alternative travel document.

Can I have more than one passport?

Depending on the conditions under which you gained German citizenship, it may be possible for you to have one or more passports in addition to your German one. This is usually the case when you are accepted for dual German citizenship.

Benefits of having a German passport

The German passport enables you to travel to 170 countries without needing a visa. You also gain freedom of movement within the EU. The other advantages are detailed on our page on German citizenship.

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Integration & Certification in Germany

German language certification

German integration course (Integrationskurs)

German naturalisation test

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
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• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

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Travel after brexit/ information for uk nationals and their families.

We are pleased to confirm that British citizens do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, if the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

Visa-free short term visits up to 90 days

Entry requirements for visa-free short stays, economic activities/ employment on short term visits.

• Non-EU family members of British citizens

Long stay national visas (D visas)/ residence permits for more than 90 days

Please note that you may not pursue any economic activity in Germany unless such activity has been explicitly authorised by a visa or a residence permit issued by the local immigration office ( Ausländerbehörde ) in Germany.

The following information applies to British citizens only.

Beneficiaries of Part Two (“citizens’ rights”) of the Withdrawal Agreement, particularly UK nationals resident in Germany prior to 1 January 2021, enjoy privileges in addition to those described here.

British citizens do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, if the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

This exemption does not extend to non- EU family members of British citizens. Depending on their nationality, non- EU family members may be subject to visa requirements .

Please note that you may not take up any employment or pursue any economic activity in Germany unless such activity is explicitly authorised by a visa or a residence permit issued by the local immigration office ( Ausländerbehörde ) in Germany.

If you are unsure how many days you have left out of your visa-free 90 days, check the Short-stay Visa Calculator .

British citizens travelling to the Schengen Member States are subject to all entry requirements for third-country nationals. The entry requirements are contained in the Schengen Borders Code and comprise the following:

You need to be in possession of a valid travel document entitling you to cross the Schengen borders. UK regular, official and diplomatic passports identifying the holder as a British citizen are recognised for visa-free travel. On the date of entry into the Schengen member states the travel document must have been issued within the previous 10 years. The passport’s validity must extend at least three months after the intended date of your departure from the territory of the Member States.

Practical examples:

• A non- EU traveller arriving on 1 December 2021 for a 20 days stay in the EU with a passport issued on 2 December 2011 and valid until 2 April 2022 will be allowed entry.
• The same person arriving on 2 December 2021 will NOT be allowed entry.
• You need to be able to justify the purpose and conditions of your intended stay, and you need to have sufficient means of subsistence, both for the duration of the intended stay and for your return to your country of origin or transit to a third country into which you are certain to be admitted, or you must be in a position to acquire such means lawfully.
• You are not a person for whom an alert has been issued in the Schengen Information System for the purposes of refusing entry.
• You are not considered to be a threat to public policy, internal security, public health or the international relations of any of the Member States, in particular where no alert has been issued in Member States’ national databases for the purposes of refusing entry on the same grounds.

As a rule, visa-free short-term visitors may not pursue any economic activity in Germany. However, some professional activities may be carried out without a corresponding visa or residence permit as they are not classed as an economic activity. For details, please click here

Any other economic activity for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period requires a C visa authorising such activity.

Non- EU family members of British citizens

Holders of British Residence Cards for EU /EEA family members who previously did not require visas now require a visa for travel to Germany unless they are otherwise exempt.

Non- EU family members of British and German citizens holding a visa as a family member under Freedom of Movement rules (“ Familienangehörige/r eines EU -/EWR-Bürgers ”) issued before 31 December 2020 and valid after 1 January 2021 must provide evidence at the point of entry into the European Union that they fulfil all Schengen entry requirements. This includes the possession of a valid travel document (validity of no more than ten years and valid for three months after the intended departure from the Union), proof of accommodation, employment, sufficient means of subsistence, travel health insurance, invitation letter or return ticket, documents proving the family member’s economic situation in the country of residence or the genuine intention to leave the territory of the Member States before the expiry of the visa.

British citizens require a visa and/or residence permit for any stay beyond 90 days within any 180-day period.

British citizens may apply to the local immigration office (“ Ausländerbehörde ”) for their residence permits after arrival in Germany and do not need to have obtained a visa prior to travelling to Germany. Please note that you need to register your new residence (“ Anmeldung ”) with the authorities (“ Meldebehörde ”) within 2 weeks of arrival and apply to the local immigration office (“ Ausländerbehörde ”) for your residence permit within the first 90 days of your stay in Germany.

British citizens also have the option to apply to a German Mission abroad for a visa prior to travelling to Germany.

Please note that some visa categories require approval from other government bodies such as the immigration office (“ Ausländerbehörde ”) at your intended place of residence and/or the Federal Employment Agency. Processing can take up to three months, and in the case of the self-employed and freelancers up to six months.

Information regarding different visa categories is available from our information page on national visas .

Professional activities not classed as economic activities/ work

This page provides an overview as to what professional activities may be carried out without a visa or residence permit as they are not classed as economic activities/ work (“Erwerbstätigkeit”).

Travelling with UK Travel Documents

Third-country nationals holding UK travel documents may travel to Germany subject to the following conditions.

Short-stay Schengen visas (C visas)

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa allowing its holder to circulate in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. Schengen visas (type C) can only be applied for through our external service provider TLScontact.

Long-stay national visas (D visas)/ residence permits for more than 90 days

A national visa (D visa) can be used to obtain a residence permit for stays exceeding 90 days.

FAQ and other important information

Please read the information on our website carefully. We do appreciate that it might be easier for you to ask questions. However, we do not have sufficient staff capacity to respond to every query.

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TravelAsker

Does Germany enforce a six-month passport validity rule?

Travel Destinations

April 12, 2023

By Kristy Tolley

Passport Validity Rules

When planning to travel abroad, it is essential to ensure that your passport is up-to-date and valid. Many countries have passport validity rules that require travelers to have a specific amount of time left on their passports before entering the country. This article will focus on Germany’s passport regulations, specifically the six-month passport validity rule.

Overview of Germany’s Passport Regulations

Germany is a member of the European Union, and as such, it follows the EU’s passport regulations. EU passport regulations state that a passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen area. The Schengen area includes 26 European countries, including Germany, where travelers can move freely without border controls.

Six-Month Passport Validity Rule Explained

While Germany follows the EU’s three-month passport validity rule, some travelers may have heard about a six-month passport validity rule. This rule requires that a traveler’s passport be valid for six months beyond their planned departure date from Germany. However, this rule only applies to specific countries and situations.

Purpose of the Six-Month Validity Rule

The purpose of the six-month validity rule is to ensure that travelers can leave the country before their passport expires. This rule is in place to prevent travelers from becoming stranded in a foreign country if their passport expires while they are away. The rule also serves as a way to ensure that travelers have a valid passport for any unexpected changes to their travel plans.

Exceptions to the Six-Month Rule

There are exceptions to the six-month validity rule, depending on the traveler’s nationality and the purpose of their trip. For example, citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia can enter Germany with a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay. Business travelers and those with a valid residence permit may also be exempt from the six-month validity rule.

Travel to Germany with an Expired Passport

Travelers with an expired passport will not be allowed to enter Germany. It is essential to check the expiration date of your passport before traveling and renew it if necessary. If you find yourself in Germany with an expired passport, you will need to visit your embassy or consulate to obtain a new passport.

Renewing Your Passport before Traveling to Germany

It is recommended that travelers renew their passports six months before their expiration date. The renewal process can take several weeks, and it is essential to have a valid passport before making travel arrangements. Travelers can renew their passports at their local embassy or consulate.

How to Check Your Passport’s Expiration Date

Travelers can check the expiration date of their passport on the front page of their passport. The expiration date is usually located in the upper right-hand corner of the page. It is also important to note that some countries require a specific number of blank pages in a passport for entry. Travelers should check their destination country’s entry requirements before traveling.

Traveling to Other Countries from Germany

Travelers should check the entry requirements of other countries they plan to visit from Germany. Some countries may have different passport validity rules than Germany, and travelers may need to renew their passports before traveling.

Tips for Passport Renewal and Traveling Abroad

It is essential to check the expiration date of your passport before traveling and renew it if necessary. Travelers should also check the entry requirements of their destination country and ensure they have enough blank pages in their passport. It is also recommended that travelers make copies of their passport and keep them in a safe place in case of loss or theft.

Conclusion: Importance of Passport Validity

Passports are essential documents for international travel, and it is important to ensure that they are up-to-date and valid. Travelers should be aware of the passport validity rules of their destination country and renew their passports if necessary. By following these rules and guidelines, travelers can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Resources for Passport Renewal and Travel Advice

For more information on passport renewal and travel advice, travelers can visit the website of their local embassy or consulate. The U.S. Department of State also provides travel advisories and passport renewal information for U.S. citizens traveling abroad.

Related Posts

• Will Germany stamp my passport upon departure?
• Is a passport mandatory for air travel to Germany?
• Do I need to carry my passport for a domestic flight in Germany?
• Would you recommend visiting Germany as a travel destination?
• Would you like to have a pleasant vacation in Germany?

Kristy Tolley

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UK passport warning for anyone who still has an old 'red' one

As they're older, people using the older burgundy type passports could be at greater risk of being stopped from boarding an aircraft this summer

• 14:30, 23 Jul 2024
• Updated 14:33, 23 Jul 2024

People using their old 'red' passports have been issued a warning that they could face heightened risk of being stopped at the border, potentially throwing a spanner in their holiday plans. Those with the red or burgundy passport are more likely to be caught out by new 'third-country nationals' rules for entering European Union countries.

Passports dished out after 2018 are valid for 10 years and must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended return date. The HM Passport Office also suggests that your passport's expiry date should be at least three months after you plan to depart from the EU for most European destinations.

It's estimated that around 200 people are turned away from getting on aircraft daily in the UK due to not having enough time left on their passport - even if it hasn't expired yet. This rejection usually occurs at check-in or the departure gate.

The UK government ceased issuing burgundy passports before 31 December 2020 and because they're older anyone using them needs to double check even more carefully there's enough time left on the,

Many countries insist that your passport needs to be valid for another six months before you jet off for international travel. This is known as the 'six-month validity rule', and many folks still using old red passports from pre-Brexit times may find their documents don't have enough time left.

Since the UK bid adieu to the European Union, your passport needs to tick two boxes when you visit Europe's Schengen zone.

• It must have been issued less than 10 years before the day you enter the EU/Schengen Zone
• It must be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

Some UK passports have more than 10 years of validity because until September 2018 the UK Passport Office would add any existing validity on your current passport to your new passport when you renewed. So if your old passport was still valid for nine months when you applied for a new passport, that new passport would be valid for 10 years and nine months.

However, since Brexit , EU countries no longer accept the additional validity. There are 70 countries that follow the six-month passport rule, while another 41 apply the three-month passport validity rule. This means travellers can enter these countries if their passport is valid for at least three more months.

If you still have a red passport, which are no longer being issued after Brexit, it's crucial to check its expiry date. Since Brexit, your passport must be less than 10 years old on the day of arrival in the EU, and its expiry date should be at least three months after your intended departure date from the EU.

You can check if your passport will be valid for your trip on GOV. UK . You'll need to search for the country you're going to and click on 'entry requirements'. You can also only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a six-month period.

You can also only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a six-month period. When the UK was in the European Union, you could have stayed as long as you liked.

Based on Home Office figures up to September 2018, it's estimated that a whopping 32 million Brits could potentially be caught out by EU rules. The Schengen Area also stipulates that UK travellers must have at least three months left before their passport expires on the day they leave the European zone.

Here are the 70 countries that enforce a six-month passport rule:

Afghanistan , Algeria, Anguilla, Bahrain, Bhutan, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Curacao, Cote D'Ivoire, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea Bissau, Guyana. , Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel , Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Madagascar, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Myanmar , Namibia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Oman, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar , Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Somaliland, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Zimbabwe.

And here are the 41 countries that enforce a three-month passport rule:

Albania, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece , Honduras, Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein. , Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Senegal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Countries with different validity rules:

Bermuda (45 days upon entry), Eritrea (three months on arrival), Hong Kong (three months on arrival), Lebanon (three months on arrival), Macau (three months on arrival), Micronesia (four months on arrival), South Africa (three months on arrival), The Maldives (three months on arrival), and Zambia (four months on arrival).

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• Travel Updates

Aussies warned to double check their passport expiry date before their next trip

It’s a simple mistake to make which is why Aussies are being warned to check their passports if they’re heading overseas anytime soon.

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It’s a simple mistake to make, which is why Aussies are being warned to check their passports if they’re heading overseas anytime soon.

If you’re not aware of the “six-month rule”, now would be the time to get familiar with it.

There are some countries that won’t let you enter if you have less than six months validity on your passport from the date you intend to leave that country.

It also may apply when you’re transiting or stopping over in the country.

“Check your passport expiry date before you travel. Make sure there’s more than six months between the expiry date and the date you leave your destination”, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade warns on its site.

It advises that if you’re not sure it will be valid long enough, consider renewing.

“To check the entry requirements of the countries you’re visiting, contact the foreign diplomatic and consular representatives of the country you’re visiting, or ask your travel agent,” the site states. “We recommend you allow a minimum of six weeks to get your new passport and don’t book your trip until you have it.”

TikTok is also awash with travellers warning fellow tourists about the six-month rule.

“Double check your passports,” Rizzo, a travel blogger, warns.

“Why? because if your passport expires within six months during your travel time, most, literally most countries will not let you in. They will literally deny you boarding.

“Nobody wants to ruin their vacation so double check your passport ahead of time.”

Some of the popular destinations for Australian travellers that enforce this rule include Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Fiji, Samoa and Vanuatu.

For Indonesia, with Aussies continuing to flock to Bali, travellers must have at least six months of validity on their passport from the date they plan to enter.

“We also recommend having at least six months of passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel and a return or onward flight booking to another country,” it explains on Smartraveller.

Bali Immigration recently released its latest figures for deportations and refusals of entry to Indonesia — and the passport “six-month rule” was one of the reasons.

Head of Immigration Ngurah Rai, Suhendra said out of the 561 foreigners who were refused entry from January 2024 to June 2024, 52 people had a passport validity period of less than six months.

The Bali Sun reported that all foreigners arriving in Indonesia are also required to have at least two blank pages in their passports.

Meanwhile, 243 foreigners who did not have a visa and were not eligible for a visa on arrival, 28 people were on the banned list, 20 people were detected as being wanted by Interpol and 212 people were on the criminal list for other immigration reasons.

Indonesian immigration officials are known to be rather strict with tourists also warned to ensure their passport is in pristine condition — or risked being refused entry.

@tayroundtheworld Have you heard of the 6-Month Passport Rule? Many travelers are unaware that many countries require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your intended return date. If it expires before your return date, you can be denied boarding or entry upon arrival at your destination and have to go straight home 🙃 ♬ Still don't know my name - Kimotion

Several Aussies have fallen victim to this including Sydney woman Elyse Elmer.

After arriving to the airport ahead of her flight to Denpasar she was refused by the airline to go on the flight because of a “small tear” in the spine of the document.

“That is literally … all it took for them to totally refuse entry,” she said in March.

Had the airline allowed her on the flight, she could have been denied entry into Bali once landing at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport.

It happened to Sydney man, Matt Vandenberg, who was detained before he could enter Bali .

The 29-year-old passed Australia’s security checks with zero issues and boarded a routine Jetstar flight. But a tiny tear in his passport was the culprit and it was enough to stop him setting foot on Indonesian soil.

“So I arrived at DPS, paid my visa, presented my passport, and get brought over to the immigration office who alerted me I have a 1cm tear on my passport page. To be fair, he is correct. I had no idea until he bent it all the way back, and it stood out. You couldn’t see it any other way,” he said at the time.

The young Aussie was then brought into an office at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport and told that because of the tiny tear, he wouldn’t be accepted into the country, and his passport was confiscated until he was put on a flight back to Australia.

Aussie passport now costs $400

Aussies is need of renewing their passport will have to pay almost $400 .

As of July 1, it went up 15 per cent, meaning those who plan on purchasing the 10-year travel document will have to pay $398, up from $346.

More Coverage

If you’re in need of an ‘emergency’ Australian passport, it will cost you $250. But, it’s only valid for up to 12 months and doesn’t have a chip.

“Because of this, there are restrictions on using them in some countries. Check the visa requirements of any country you plan to enter or transit,” the DFAT website reads.

Aussies needing to fast-track their passport can do so for $100 with the document processed within five business days. This is on top of the $398 fee for the 10-year passport itself.

Passengers can expect cancellations and delays as strike action is expected to cause disruption.

Hundreds of Aussie tourists are being denied entry into Indonesia’s island paradise for one reason.

A major airport has been rocked by a combination of strong winds reaching up to 90kmh and a global IT outage which crippled flight plans.

Red passport UK holders warning over summer holiday travel

People who still have their old 'red' passport have been warned they are at heightened risk of being stopped at the border - potentially ruining their holidays. Those who have the red or burgundy passport are more at risk - because they could fall foul of new ‘third-country nationals’ rules to enter European Union countries.

Passports issued after 2018 are valid for exactly 10 years, and must be valid for at least three months after the intended return date. The HM Passport Office also recommends that the passport expiry date be at least three months after the intended departure date from the EU for most European countries.

An estimated 200 people are thought to be turned away every day due to not having long enough left on their passport - even though it has not expired yet. The rejection typically happens at check in or the departure gate. The UK government stopped issuing burgundy passports before 31 December 2020.

Many countries require your passport to be valid for another six months before you leave for international travel. This is known as the ‘six-month validity rule’, and many people still using old red passports from before Brexit may run a risk of their documents not having long enough left.

Since the UK left the European Union, your passport needs to fulfil two criteria when you visit Europe's Schengen zone.

• It must have been issued less than 10 years before the day you enter the EU/Schengen Zone
• It must be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

Why is the 10-year passport rule important for UK passport holders?

Some UK passports have more than 10 years of validity because until September 2018 the UK Passport Office would add any existing validity on your current passport to your new passport when you renewed. So if your old passport was still valid for nine months when you applied for a new passport, that new passport would be valid for 10 years and nine months. However, since Brexit, EU countries no longer accept the additional validity.

There are 70 countries that follow the six-month passport rule, while another 41 apply the three-month passport validity rule. This means travellers can enter these countries if their passport is valid for at least three more months. If you still have a red passport, which are no longer being issued after Brexit, it’s crucial to check its expiry date. Since Brexit, your passport must be less than 10 years old on the day of arrival in the EU, and its expiry date should be at least three months after your intended departure date from the EU.

You can check if your passport will be valid for your trip on GOV.UK . You’ll need to search for the country you’re going to and click on ‘entry requirements’. You can also only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a six-month period. You can also only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a six-month period. When the UK was in the European Union, you could have stayed as long as you liked.

Some estimates based on Home Office figures on passports issued up to September 2018 suggest 32 million people could potentially fall foul of EU rules. The Schengen Area also requires UK travellers to have at least three months remaining before the expiry date on their passport on the day of departure from the European zone.

70 countries that have a six-month passport rule :

Afghanistan, Algeria, Anguilla, Bahrain, Bhutan, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Curacao, Cote D’Ivoire, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea Bissau, Guyana., Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Madagascar, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Myanmar, Namibia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Oman, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Somaliland, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Zimbabwe

41 countries that have a three-month passport rule:

Albania, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein., Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Senegal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Countries with other validity rules:

Bermuda (45 days upon entry), Eritrea (three months on arrival), Hong Kong (three months on arrival), Lebanon (three months on arrival), Macau (three months on arrival), Micronesia (four months on arrival), South Africa (three months on arrival), The Maldives (three months on arrival), and Zambia (four months on arrival).