Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Germany Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Latest updates: The Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Germany - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Germany.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
To reduce the spread of COVID-19, preventative measures and restrictions are in place until further notice. These measures and their enforcement may vary depending on the Länder.
As part of the physical distancing measures, you must:
- keep a distance of at least 1.5 metres from others when in public
- limit contact with people who do not live in your household
- wear a face covering when on public transportation, in shops, and in other public areas as required
If you violate these measures, you could be fined for endangering public health. Follow the advice of local authorities.
Useful links:
- Coronavirus: Frequently Asked Questions – German Federal Ministry of the Interior
- COVID-19 response - European Commission
Crime
Violent crime is rare, but does occur.
Numerous incidents of muggings and sexual assaults have occurred during large gatherings in Cologne and other German cities, most notably on December 31, 2015. Exercise normal security precautions and be particularly vigilant if attending events drawing large crowds.
Petty crime (pickpocketing and purse snatching) occurs in major cities and train stations, airports and Christmas markets.
Pickpockets often work in teams and target people on trains and at railway stations and airports. Their methods include distracting a victim who is boarding or exiting a train or surrounding a victim in line-ups or at check-in counters.
Individuals have been harassed or attacked for reasons of race or foreign-looking appearance.
Ensure that personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Arson attacks on parked vehicles have occurred.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. In Germany, previous incidents have resulted in injury and death. They include random violent assaults in public areas and a truck driven into crowds at a Christmas market in Berlin. Further attacks in Europe are likely.
Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.
The Government of Germany maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated through local media.
More information about public security - Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community
Demonstrations
Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Road safety
Roads and public transportation are excellent.
Bicycles are numerous throughout the country and often have dedicated pathways between sidewalks and roadways. You should exercise caution when crossing these paths, as bicycles have right of way.
Dial 110 in the event of a traffic accident.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Migrants and refugees
There has been a significant increase in the number of migrants and refugees entering Europe. Some countries have already experienced disruptions to transportation services, including at ferry ports and railway stations, and have seen major delays at border crossings. The situation also heightens the potential for demonstrations that could turn violent without warning, particularly at railway stations and other transportation hubs. If you are travelling in the region, monitor local news and follow the advice of local authorities, and contact your transport carrier to determine whether the situation could disrupt your travel.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry requirements
Travellers arriving from Canada are not allowed entry to Germany. However, certain travellers may be exempt if they can prove the essential nature of their travel.
It is your responsibility to verify this information with the appropriate foreign diplomatic office and to ask if you may be allowed entry, based on your individual circumstances and your itinerary.
Local authorities may impose additional requirements without notice and your travel plans could be severely disrupted. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
Useful links:
- Entry restrictions to Germany - Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (BMI)
- Entry requirements to EU countries - Re-open EU
- Foreign diplomatic offices in Canada - Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the German authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Latest information on German immigration law and regulations - German Federal ministry of interior.
Schengen area
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.
If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Temporary border controls
The German government has reintroduced internal border controls at certain border crossings. Canadians may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering Germany, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days
Student visa: Required
The extension of tourist visits longer than 90 days is not possible. You must apply for a residence permit and provide a valid reason. If you must stay beyond the 90-day limit unexpectedly (for example, due to illness), contact the Foreigners Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde) in the district in which you are staying for information on how to legalize your extended stay.
Registration
If you intend to reside in Germany for three months or more, you must register with the German authorities (Einwohnermeldeamt) within seven days of your entry into the country.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Tick-borne encephalitis
Risk
- Tick-borne encephalitis is present in some areas of this country.
- It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).
- It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or when you consume unpasteurized milk products.
Recommendation
- Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to ticks during outdoor activities.
- A vaccine against TBE does exist but is only available in countries where the disease is present.
- Learn more on what you can do to prevent tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)?
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Western Europe. When in doubt, remember…boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Western Europe, certain insects carry and spread diseases like Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis, and West Nile virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Western Europe, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing facilities
Consult the following links to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test:
- COVID-19 testing facility at Berlin airport - Berlin airport
- COVID-19 testing facilities at Frankfurt airport - Frankfurt airport
- COVID-19 testing facility at Munich airport - Munich Airport
- COVID-19 testing facilities for ordinarily residents of Germany - German Medical Services (in German only)
Good medical care is widely available. A hospital stay or medical treatment is expensive, and immediate cash payment is often expected.
German hospitals do not generally issue the detailed breakdown of expenses that is usually required by Canadian insurance companies, but you may request a detailed bill from the hospital or the doctor.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Canada and Germany are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Germany to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and German authorities.
Identification
Carry adequate identification at all times, such as a passport or residence permit. Police have the right to ask to see it. Keep a photocopy of your passport, in case it is lost or seized.
Illegal drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.
Illegal activities
Using or displaying Nazi symbols or material, such as flags or memorabilia, is illegal.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Germany.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Germany, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Driving
You must be at least 18 years old to drive a vehicle in Germany. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
A Canadian driver’s licence can be used for a maximum of 6 months. After 6 months, you must exchange your Canadian licence for a German one. Allow up to 6 weeks for German authorities to exchange the licence.
You must always carry:
- your driver’s licence
- insurance and vehicle documents
- written permission from the registered owner, if the vehicle does not belong to you
Observe traffic laws and regulations, particularly rights-of-way and speed limits. Much of the autobahn network authorizes much higher speeds than normally allowed in Canada. Exercise caution.
The use of cellular telephones while driving is prohibited, unless they are fitted with a hands-free device.
Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, and your driver’s licence may be confiscated immediately.
- More about driving in Germany - European Commission
- More about the International Driving Permit
Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEV)
Drivers of light electric vehicles such as electric scooters and e-skateboards must follow the rules of the road. Insurance is mandatory.
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% and zero for new drivers and individuals under 21 years of age. Convicted offenders can face heavy fines and have their licence confiscated. Authorities may ask for the fine to be paid right away.
Driving on pedestrian walkways and in pedestrian zones is not allowed.
More on Personal Light Electric Vehicles – Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure
Money
The currency of Germany is the euro (EUR).
Credit cards are widely accepted at major hotels, shops and restaurants. ATMs are widely available.
If you are carrying more than €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs upon your entry or exit to the European Union. The sum can be in cash, cheque, money order, traveller’s cheque or any other convertible asset. This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.
More information about cash controls - European Commission
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Temperatures can be lower at high altitudes in the Alps.
There is a possibility of flooding in spring and summer. Exercise caution, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
Consular assistance
To reduce the spread of COVID-19, the offices of the Government of Canada in Germany are limiting in-person services. If you need consular assistance, contact one of our offices by email or telephone.
Berlin - Embassy of Canada
Düsseldorf - Consulate of Canada
Munich - Consulate of Canada
Stuttgart - Consulate of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Berlin and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
When making a long-distance call within Germany, the city code must be preceded by a zero. For example, to call Berlin from elsewhere in Germany, you must dial 030, followed by the local number.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.