ETIAS US > U.S. ETIAS Requirements > ETIAS for Germany
EU Visa Waiver for U.S. Citizens Visiting Germany
Citizens of the United States will soon need to register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to visit Germany.
American tourists and business travelers can still spend up to 90 days in Germany visa-free, but ETIAS will be required from 2025.
On this page, you can find out all the ETIAS requirements for U.S. citizens traveling to Germany. Understand what you need to apply and get ready for the new European entry requirement.
Changes to German Entry Requirements
The way U.S. citizens travel to Germany changes in 2025. There will be an additional requirement for all non-EU visa-exempt visitors, including Americans.
Current requirements:
- Passport valid for your stay in the Schengen Area
Requirements from 2025:
- Passport valid for your stay in the Schengen Area
- ETIAS travel authorization
This new requirement applies to all the Schengen countries, not just Germany.
About ETIAS Germany for U.S. Citizens
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization for Germany, it is not a visa. The system works in a similar way to the United States ESTA program.
Key information about ETIAS for traveling to Germany from the U.S.
- Start date—2025
- Validity—3 years or until your U.S. passport expires (whichever comes first)
- Length of stay—multiple visits of up to 90 days per 180-day period
- Countries—Germany and other Schengen countries
Request your ETIAS for Germany from the USA
It’s quick to apply for ETIAS for Germany online. Simply fill out the electronic ETIAS application form with your personal information, passport data, and some travel details. Once you’ve done that and paid the ETIAS fee, you’re ready to submit your application.
The ETIAS is linked to your passport once approved and you’ll be notified by email.
What information will be checked when applying for a Germany ETIAS
The ETIAS system uses your application information to improve security in Germany and across the Schengen countries.
Identity verification: ETIAS Germany application uses personal information, such as name, date of birth, and nationality, to verify your identity.
Security checks: The system cross-references the data with multiple international databases, such as the Schengen Information System (SIS), Europol, and Interpol, to identify potential risks, criminal records, or past immigration violations. It can affect to your travel to Germany or any Schengen Area country.
Travel history assessment: ETIAS evaluates your travel history, including previous visits to the Schengen Area or other countries, to determine if you pose a risk to the security or public health of Germany or any Schengen Country you plan to visit.
The personal information collected and used by the ETIAS System is subject to the European Union's data protection and privacy regulations, ensuring the proper handling and protection of your data.
ETIAS requirements for U.S. citizens to visit Germany
American tourists and business travelers need to meet all the ETIAS requirements for Germany.
The purpose of your visit to Germany must be for:
- A maximum of 90 days per 180-day period in Germany or the Schengen Area
- Transit, business, or tourism
The ETIAS for Germany does not allow the U.S. visitors to work or live in Germany. Styding in Germany it is allowed if it is for up to 90 days.
Documents required to travel to Germany from the U.S.
Germany is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area.
To travel to Germany short-term, U.S. citizens need:
- Machine readable passport
- ETIAS for Germany
To stay in Germany for more than 90 days, U.S. citizens need:
- Passport
- Long-stay visa or
- Aufenthaltstite (residence permit)
Different visas and residence permits for Germany are available depending on how long you will stay and your planned activities. You cannot work in Germany with ETIAS, the travel authorization is for tourism and business trips.
Travel & Tourist Information About Germany
Germany is in central-western Europe. It’s ideally located if you want to visit multiple European countries during your trip.
Germany is bordered by:
- Denmark to the north
- Poland and the Czech Republic to the east
- Austria and Switzerland to the south
- France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands to the west
You can visit each of these countries with the same ETIAS visa waiver.
Germany is a popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities.
Berlin, the capital city, is a cultural hub with world-class museums, art galleries, and music venues. Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is known for its stunning architecture and Oktoberfest. Other notable cities include Frankfurt, a major financial center, and Cologne, which is famous for its stunning cathedral.
Germany is also famous for its picturesque countryside. The Black Forest, the Bavarian Alps, and the Rhine Valle are among the natural highlights.
German Visas for U.S. Citizens
ETIAS is for American tourists, business travelers, and students who will stay in Germany for no more than 90 days in any 180-day period.
If you plan to stay in Germany for longer or to visit for other reasons, you need a German National Visa (type D). U.S. nationals can apply for a visa through the German embassy.
There are German National Visas for:
- Job seekers
- Employees
- Students
- Entrepreneurs
Americans who need a visa for Germany should contact a German mission in their home country.
German missions in the United States
You do not need to visit a German embassy or consulate to apply for ETIAS—the process is entirely online.
If you need a National Visa, you should contact your nearest German mission.
The German Embassy is in Washington DC. There are German consulates in more than 40 cities including Austin, Boston, Chicago, New Oleans, Orlando, San Francisco, and Seattle.
About Germany
Capital: Berlin
Language: German
Area: 357,168 km²
Population: Around 83 million
Timezone: UTC/GTM 1
Currency: euro (€)
Code: +49
U.S. Embassy in Berlin, Germany
Address: Clayallee 170, 14191 Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany
Summary of Required Documents to enter Germany from U.S.
To summarize the information on this page, this is what U.S. citizens need to travel to Germany.
| Short Stay | Long Stay |
|---|---|
| U.S. Passport* | U.S. Passport* |
| ETIAS for Germany | National visa** |
* Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date you’ll exit the Schengen Area.
** Supporting documents are required to apply. This includes proof of funds and documentation specific to your visa type.
Entry requirements for Germany are subject to change. Ensure you have all the latest information, including health regulations, before you travel.
