🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 103 (from laksa005)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa103.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/germany.html\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/germany.html\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/germany.html","crawl_time":1776201431,"first_indexed_time":1757005219,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"gov,state!travel,\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/germany.html s443","src_root_hash":"15818340508630297303","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Germany","meta_descriptions":["Prepare for your trip to Germany by reviewing the State Department Travel Advisory, entry and exit requirements, local laws, and U.S. embassy tips."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Terrorism (T)\nExercise increased caution\nin\nGermany\ndue to\nterrorism\n.\nAdvisory summary\nTerrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles.  Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target:  \nTourist locations \nTransportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations)  \nMarkets and shopping malls \nLocal government facilities \nHotels, clubs, and restaurants \nPlaces of worship and educational institutions \nParks \nMajor sporting and cultural events \nSchools\nBe aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.\nFollow the instructions of local authorities.\nMonitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.\nEnroll in the \nSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)\n.\nReview the \nCountry Security Report\n  for Germany.   \nPrepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the \nInternational Travel Checklist\n.\nVisit the CDC page for the latest \nTravel Health Information\n related to your travel and return to the United States.   \nWe highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.\nScroll to review full advisory\nExercise normal precautions\nExercise increased caution\nReconsider travel\nDo not travel\nGermany is in Europe, in the Northern Hemisphere. It has maritime borders with the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It shares land borders with Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands.\nGermany is slightly smaller than Montana. It has 1 main time zone, Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time. Germany switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST) in the warmer months. \nGermany is normally 6 hours ahead of Washington, D.C.  There are short periods when the time difference is only 5 hours because Germany has different start and end times for daylight saving time.\nNo visa is required for stays less than 90 days.\nNo vaccinations are required. \nMust have 3 months validity beyond your date of departure. \nMust have 2 blank passport pages. \n6 months passport validity recommended, but not required.\nEntry:\nOver 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared\nExit:\nOver 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared.\nCheck with the \nGerman Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices\n to ensure your medication is legal. \nIt is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the \"Third Reich.\" \nAlpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German \"Alpen Verein.\" \nExplore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad.\nSelect a topic\nEntry, exit, and visa requirements\nSafety and security\nLocal laws and customs\nHealth\nTransportation\nWeather and natural disasters\nU.S. citizens living abroad\nEmbassies and consulates\nIf you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, be familiar with the requirements of the\nSchengen Agreement\n. \nYour passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our information on \nU.S. Travelers in Europe\n. \nWe recommend you have at least 6 month’s validity remaining in your passport.  \nYou will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. \nFor more information about visas for the Schengen area,  review the\nSchengen Visa\npage.  \nVisit the\nEmbassy of Germany website\nfor the most current visa information. \nIf traveling with prescription medications, review all requirements related to pharmaceuticals below to avoid potential fines and confiscation.\nThe U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany. \nLocal authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  \nDial 112\nfor ambulance services.  \nDial 110\nfor the police. \nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at\n+49-30-8305-0\nto report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). \nCredible information indicates terrorist groups and individuals radicalized or inspired by terrorist organizations and Jihadi ideology remain a persistent threat in Germany and Europe at large.\nEuropean governments are acting to prevent terrorist attacks. However, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. \nTerrorist attacks from groups\nand radicalized individuals aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles. \nTerrorists may target crowds at: \nHigh-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) \nTourist sites. \nPopular hotels, clubs, and restaurants \nPlaces of worship \nSchools  \nParks \nShopping malls and markets \nPublic transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) \nViolent crime is rare in Germany but can occur. It is more common in larger cities, large metropolitan subway systems, and in train stations. \nMost crimes occur during late night or early morning hours.\nMost incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing.\nTheft and pickpocketing mainly happen at train stations and on public transport. They also occur at tourist spots and large public events.  \nTips to stay safe: \nAlways pay close attention to your valuables. \nStay aware of your surroundings.  \nExercise caution when gathering in popular expatriate hangouts.  \nDon’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\nlocal law.\n  \nDemonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays like\nGerman Labor Day on May 1\n, and during international events.  \nDemonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.   \nDemonstration organizers must get approval from the police first. Authorities usually watch over the participants. \nCheck local media for updates and traffic advisories.  \nStrikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information before travel.\nFollow the Department of State guidelines to\nprotect yourself from scams\nand learn how the FBI can help.    \nFinancial scams are common in Germany. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters, with scammers pretending to be U.S. citizens in need of help.  \nTips to avoid scammers:  \nLook for red flags. These include a faraway location, or new social media profile. Also, beware if the relationship is moving too quickly or if they ask for money. \nDo a reverse image search on the profile picture. \nIf they ask for help, refer them instead to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate.  \nIf you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer. \nCommon scams include:    \nPeople claiming to be U.S. military personnel \nRomance and online dating  \nMoney transfers  \nLucrative sales \nGold purchase \nContracts with promises of large commissions  \nGrandparent and relative targeting (e.g., kidnapping, relative is “arrested,” or medical emergency).  \nFree trip or luggage  \nLotteries  \nInheritance notices  \nWork permits and job offers  \nBank overpayments \nMobile devices can be compromised, stolen, and damaged anywhere in the world.\nKeep all operating system and apps updated.\nUse a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN or VoIP are reputable and U.S. based.\nDo not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.  \nGPS apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country.\nPrior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe.\nThe shortest route may not be the safest.  \nBe careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. \nAvoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs. \nU.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. \nLocal authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. \nDial 112\nfor ambulance services. \nDial 110\nfor the police.\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at\n+49-30-8305-0\nto report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities).\nReview our information on help for\nU.S. Victims of Crime Abroad.\nWe can:\nHelp you find appropriate medical care.\nAssist you in reporting a crime to the police.\nContact relatives or friends with your written consent.\nProvide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.\nProvide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.\nProvide information on\nvictim’s compensation programs in the U.S.\nProvide information on \nvictim’s compensation and support in Germany\n.\nProvide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States, and, or limited medical support in cases of destitution.\nHelp you find accommodation and arrange flights home.\nReplace a lost or stolen passport.\nWe also maintain information on our website on how to\nreport child abuse situations to the local authorities\n.\nU.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance.\nDial 110\nfor emergencies.\nDial 030-8305-0\n(within Germany) or\ndial 01149-30-8305-0\nfor calls originating from the United States for the Berlin Embassy.\nDial 069-7535-0\n(within Germany) or\ndial 01149-69-7535-0\nfor calls originating from the United States for the Frankfurt Consulate General.\nDial 089-2888-0\nfrom within Germany or\ndial 011-49-89-2888-0\nfor calls originating from the United States for the Munich Consulate General. \nThe tourism industry is generally regulated.\nRules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.\nDangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.\nTrained staff are usually there to help with organized activities.\nIf someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country.\nIn smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist.\nU.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.\nReview our webpage for more\ninformation on insurance providers\nfor overseas coverage.\nEvery year, many people are injured or killed 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.  \nAlpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German “Alpen Verein.” \nIf injured, you can find good medical care across the country. However, outside major cities, it might take longer for first responders and doctors to provide life-saving care. \nU.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Learn more about insurance providers and coverage abroad.   \nYou are subject to local laws.\nIf you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison.\nIf you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.\nIf\narrested or detained\n, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. \nGermany has strict customs regulations on:\nTemporary importation or exportation of firearms.\nMilitary artifacts (from World War II)\nAntiques\nMedications and pharmaceuticals\nBusiness equipment\nIt is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the \"Third Reich.\"\nContact the\nGerman Embassy in Washington\nor a consulate in the U.S. for customs requirements.\nGermany has no laws criminalizing consensual, same-sex sexual relations or restrictions on information, literature, or events focused on sexual orientation.\nMost large city governments, including Berlin and Munich, encourage Pride events. This includes those in Cologne, Hamburg, and Frankfurt. \nSame-sex marriage is available in Germany.\nFederal anti-discrimination laws protect people on the basis of sexual orientation.\nFor more information:\nHuman Rights Report for Germany\nThe law in Germany prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is enforced.\nSocial acceptance of people with disabilities in public is as common as in the United States.\nAccessibility can be limited in older public transportation and lodging. This is especially the case outside of major cities.  \nOlder buildings may not be accessible to people with disabilities.\nBefore traveling, check your hotel or destination. Learn about options for disabled travelers.\nAll German airports, and airlines such as Lufthansa, offer services for disabled travelers. \nThe German National Railway, Deutsche Bahn, maintains a mobility resource webpage.\nFor more information visit the\nGerman National Tourist Board\n.\nDial 110\nfor police\nDial 112\nfor emergency services. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant. \nGermany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names are different from those available in the United States.\nAmbulances are widely available.\nThe U.S. government does not pay medical bills. \nU.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work abroad.\nMost hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.\nMost care providers abroad only accept cash payments.\nMake sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on\ntypes of insurance available\n.\nWe strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our\nMedicine and Health\npage for more information. \nAir quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. \nPeople at highest risk from particle pollution: \nInfants, children, and teens \nAnyone over 65 years of age \nHave lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. \nHave heart disease or diabetes \nWork or are active outdoors\nAir pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.\nCheck\nNASA’s Air Quality Forecast\n. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Germany. \nFor information about common air pollutants, check the\nCDC’s Air Quality page\n .\nFor information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the\nEPA’s AirNow\n .\nFor general health information, visit the\nMedicine and Health\npage.\nThe U.S. embassy and consulates maintain\nlists of doctors and medical services\nin Germany. We do not recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. \nMany U.S. citizens suffer serious complications or die from cosmetic or other elective surgeries.    \nMedical tourism is a fast-growing industry.  \nU.S. citizens seeking healthcare abroad should know that medical systems differ from those in the United States and follow different rules.   \nConsult your doctor before traveling for medical reasons. \nLearn about the risks of\nmedical tourism from the CDC\nand find out how to prepare before traveling to Germany. \nWe recommend buying\nsupplemental insurance\nthat covers evacuation for unexpected medical issues. \nAlways carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. \nCheck with the\nGerman Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices\nto ensure the medication is legal in Germany. \nFor medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.  \nCheck\nthe list of medications PDF\n . If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a\ncertification form PDF\n \nYou will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.”  There is no such authority in the United States. Please have your doctor certify the form. They should enter their practice info in part E. A stamp or seal from their office is ideal. \nYou can't receive prescription medications by mail in Germany. The strict customs rules require special permissions. \nExercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Consult with a medical professional and buy from reputable establishments.   \nU.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.  \nMedication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Get more information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the\nFood and Drug Administration\n.\nThe Department of State provides information on\nART and surrogacy abroad\n.  \nAll surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany. \nFor additional information, visit\nGerman Foreign Ministry\n(German language only).\nRoad conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States: \nDriver errors are a leading cause of accidents involving U.S. citizen motorists in Germany.\nIf you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license, you can drive in\nGermany for up to 6 months\nwithout acquiring a German driver’s license. \nMany German traffic laws and traffic signs are different from those in the United States. \nSpeed limits are posted on large stretches of the highway, on the Autobahn in urban areas, and when the road has many curves. \nAlthough high speeds are permitted on the Autobahn, adverse weather conditions and unfamiliar road markings may pose significant hazards. \nSpeed limits are strictly enforced. \nUse of seat belts is required in front and back seats. \nDo not park on bike paths or sidewalks. \nThese items must always be in your vehicle: Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle.\nIn snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow or all-season tires (M+S marking). Otherwise, you will be fined. \nGerman streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. \nBicycles have priority in bike lanes over pedestrians and cars.\nBicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. \nBefore turning onto side streets, check for cyclists. Do this even if the light is green.\nYou will be responsible for any injury or damage if you turn into a side street and hit a cyclist in a marked bike lane.\nIf you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes. \nIn Germany, if you're in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you must stay with your vehicle and wait for the police to arrive.\nIt is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Germany. \nExcept on priority roads, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way. \nIt is illegal in Germany to pass vehicles on the right. \nGermans strictly observe the ‘slower traffic keep right’ rule. \nIt is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher. \nYou could be fined and have your driver's license suspended for a set period, depending on the severity of the violation.\nGermany has a safe, extensive public transport system of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. \nTaxis:\nAvailable throughout Germany. \nRideshare:\nUber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany.\nAll public transport:\nUse common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation. \nStrikes in Germany can disrupt public transportation and travel plans. We recommend checking schedules before you travel.\nThe U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.\nFAA’s website\nincludes more information on its assessment program.   \nSevere storms:\nIntense thunderstorms are common. These are often accompanied by:  \nHeavy rain \nHail \nStrong winds \nThese weather events can cause flooding, damage to property, and disruptions to transportation. \nWinter weather (snow and ice):\nHeavy snow, freezing temps, and ice are common in winter. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions, transport delays, and potential power outages. \nHeatwaves:\nProlonged periods of extreme heat in the summer. This can lead to droughts, wildfires, health risks, and strain on energy resources. \nClayallee 170\n14191 Berlin\nFederal Republic of Germany\nWilli-Becker-Allee 10 \n40227 Duesseldorf \nFederal Republic of Germany \nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt. \nGiessener Str. 30\n60435 Frankfurt am Main\nFederal Republic of Germany\nKehrwieder 8\n20457 Hamburg \nFederal Republic of Germany \nEmergency after-hours:\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin:\n+49-30-8305-0\n \nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.\nWilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4 \n04107 Leipzig \nFederal Republic of Germany \nEmergency after-hours:\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: \n+49-30-8305-0 \nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.\nKoeniginstrasse 5\n80539 Munich\nFederal Republic of Germany\nFax:\nIf you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number. ","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/germany.html#tsg_hero_container)\n\n![US Flag](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/dam\/tsg_aem\/banner-images\/us_flag_small%201.png)\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\nHere's how you know\n\nHere's how you know\n\n![Icon for US government website](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/dam\/tsg_aem\/banner-images\/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n**Official websites use .gov**\n\nA **.gov** website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.\n\n![A lock indicating the site is secure](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/dam\/tsg_aem\/banner-images\/icon-https.svg)\n\n**Secure .gov websites use HTTPS**\n\nA lock (![](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/dam\/tsg_aem\/banner-images\/icon.svg)) or **https:\/\/** means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.\n\nAmericans in the Middle East\n\n[Americans in the Middle East should follow the latest guidance from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and can contact the U.S. Department of State to receive information or assistance.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/middle-east.html)\n\nWorldwide Caution\n\n[The Department of State advises Americans worldwide, and especially in the Middle East, to exercise increased caution.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/worldwide-caution.html)\n\n[![Travel.State.Gov US Department of State Homepage](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/dam\/tsg_aem\/banner-images\/logo.svg)](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/)\n\n![Search button](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/usa-icons\/search.svg)\n\nMenu\n\n![Close button](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/usa-icons\/close.svg)\n\n[Careers](https:\/\/careers.state.gov\/) [About](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/about-us.html) [Contacts](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/contact-us.html) [Login](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/about-us\/mytravelgov.html)\n\n[U.S. Passports U.S. Passports](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/passports.html)\n\nU.S. Passports\n\n[U.S. Visas U.S. Visas](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas.html)\n\nU.S. Visas\n\nInternational  \nTravel\n\nInternational Travel\n\nInternational Travel\n\n[International Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel.html)\n\nTravel Advisories\n\nPlanning Your Travel\n\nLiving Abroad Resources\n\nHelp Abroad\n\n[Travel Advisories](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories.html)\n\n[STEP - Smart Traveler Enrollment Program](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html)\n\nGlobal Events Affecting International Travel\n\n[High-Risk Areas](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/high-risk-areas.html)\n\n[Crime](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/crime.html)\n\n[Scams](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/scams.html)\n\n[Planning Your Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning.html)\n\n[International Travel Checklist](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/checklist.html)\n\nInternational Travel Guidance\n\nPersonal Travel Needs\n\nSafety Tips for Activities\n\n[Living Abroad Resources](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad.html)\n\n[American Citizens Services Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/acs.html)\n\n[Birth](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/birth.html)\n\n[Marriage](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/marriage.html)\n\n[Divorce](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/divorce.html)\n\n[Death](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/death.html)\n\n[Retirement](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/retirement.html)\n\n[Federal Benefits and Obligations](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/federal-benefits-obligations.html)\n\n[Criminal Records Checks](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/criminal-records.html)\n\n[Voting from Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/voting.html)\n\n[Help Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad.html)\n\n[Crisis Response and Evacuations](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/crisis-response.html)\n\n[Lost or Stolen Passport Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/lost-stolen-passport.html)\n\n[Victims of Crime](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/victims-crime.html)\n\n[Arrest or Detention Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/arrest-detention.html)\n\n[Missing U.S. Citizens Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/missing-us-citizen.html)\n\n[Emergency Financial Assistance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/financial.html)\n\n[Global Events Affecting International Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events.html)\n\n[Terrorism](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/terrorism.html)\n\n[Worldwide Caution](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/worldwide-caution.html)\n\n[International Travel Guidance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance.html)\n\n[DHS Trusted Traveler Programs](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/dhs-trusted-traveler-program.html)\n\n[Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/driving-transportation.html)\n\n[Information for Travel Industry](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/travel-industry.html)\n\n[Laws Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/laws.html)\n\n[Lodging Safety](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/lodging-safety.html)\n\n[Medicine and Health](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/medicine-health.html)\n\n[Travel Insurance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html)\n\n[U.S. Travelers in Europe](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/europe.html)\n\n[Personal Travel Needs](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs.html)\n\n[Accessibility Needs](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/accessibility.html)\n\n[Age 65+ Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/age-65.html)\n\n[Dual Nationality](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/dual-nationality.html)\n\n[Gay and Lesbian Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/gay-lesbian.html)\n\n[Pets](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/pets.html)\n\n[Race and Ethnicity Travel Safety](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/race-ethnicity-safety.html)\n\n[Travel with Minors](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/minors.html)\n\n[Women Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/women.html)\n\n[Safety Tips for Activities](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips.html)\n\n[Adventure Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/adventure.html)\n\n[Boating Safety and Piracy](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/boating-safety-piracy.html)\n\n[Business Travel and Work Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/business.html)\n\n[Cruise Ships](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/cruise-ships.html)\n\n[Faith-Based Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/faith-based.html)\n\n[Firearms](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/firearms.html)\n\n[Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimage Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/hajj-umrah-pilgrimage.html)\n\n[Journalists](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/journalists.html)\n\n[Studying Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/studying.html)\n\n[Volunteering Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/volunteering.html)\n\n- [International Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel.html)\n- Travel Advisories\n  - [Travel Advisories](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories.html)\n  - [STEP - Smart Traveler Enrollment Program](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html)\n  - Global Events Affecting International Travel\n    - [Global Events Affecting International Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events.html)\n    - [Terrorism](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/terrorism.html)\n    - [Worldwide Caution](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/worldwide-caution.html)\n  - [High-Risk Areas](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/high-risk-areas.html)\n  - [Crime](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/crime.html)\n  - [Scams](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/scams.html)\n- Planning Your Travel\n  - [Planning Your Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning.html)\n  - [International Travel Checklist](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/checklist.html)\n  - International Travel Guidance\n    - [International Travel Guidance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance.html)\n    - [DHS Trusted Traveler Programs](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/dhs-trusted-traveler-program.html)\n    - [Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/driving-transportation.html)\n    - [Information for Travel Industry](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/travel-industry.html)\n    - [Laws Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/laws.html)\n    - [Lodging Safety](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/lodging-safety.html)\n    - [Medicine and Health](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/medicine-health.html)\n    - [Travel Insurance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html)\n    - [U.S. Travelers in Europe](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/europe.html)\n  - Personal Travel Needs\n    - [Personal Travel Needs](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs.html)\n    - [Accessibility Needs](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/accessibility.html)\n    - [Age 65+ Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/age-65.html)\n    - [Dual Nationality](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/dual-nationality.html)\n    - [Gay and Lesbian Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/gay-lesbian.html)\n    - [Pets](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/pets.html)\n    - [Race and Ethnicity Travel Safety](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/race-ethnicity-safety.html)\n    - [Travel with Minors](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/minors.html)\n    - [Women Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/women.html)\n  - Safety Tips for Activities\n    - [Safety Tips for Activities](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips.html)\n    - [Adventure Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/adventure.html)\n    - [Boating Safety and Piracy](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/boating-safety-piracy.html)\n    - [Business Travel and Work Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/business.html)\n    - [Cruise Ships](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/cruise-ships.html)\n    - [Faith-Based Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/faith-based.html)\n    - [Firearms](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/firearms.html)\n    - [Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimage Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/hajj-umrah-pilgrimage.html)\n    - [Journalists](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/journalists.html)\n    - [Studying Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/studying.html)\n    - [Volunteering Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/volunteering.html)\n- Living Abroad Resources\n  - [Living Abroad Resources](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad.html)\n  - [American Citizens Services Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/acs.html)\n  - [Birth](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/birth.html)\n  - [Marriage](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/marriage.html)\n  - [Divorce](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/divorce.html)\n  - [Death](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/death.html)\n  - [Retirement](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/retirement.html)\n  - [Federal Benefits and Obligations](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/federal-benefits-obligations.html)\n  - [Criminal Records Checks](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/criminal-records.html)\n  - [Voting from Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/voting.html)\n- Help Abroad\n  - [Help Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad.html)\n  - [Crisis Response and Evacuations](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/crisis-response.html)\n  - [Lost or Stolen Passport Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/lost-stolen-passport.html)\n  - [Victims of Crime](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/victims-crime.html)\n  - [Arrest or Detention Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/arrest-detention.html)\n  - [Missing U.S. Citizens Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/missing-us-citizen.html)\n  - [Emergency Financial Assistance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/financial.html)\n\n[Intercountry Adoption Intercountry Adoption](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/Intercountry-Adoption.html)\n\nIntercountry Adoption\n\n[Intercountry Parental Child Abduction Intercountry Parental Child Abduction](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/International-Parental-Child-Abduction.html)\n\nIntercountry Parental Child Abduction\n\n[Replace or Certify Documents Replace or Certify Documents](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/replace-certify-docs.html)\n\nReplace or Certify Documents\n\n[Careers](https:\/\/careers.state.gov\/)\n\n[About](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/about-us.html)\n\n[Contacts](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/contact-us.html)\n\n[Login](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/about-us\/mytravelgov.html)\n\n1. [Home](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en.html)\n2. [International Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel.html)\n3. [Travel Advisories](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories.html)\n4. Germany\n\n# Germany\nReview the latest State Department Travel Advisory about Germany. You can plan for safe travel by following the entry and exit requirements, reviewing local laws, and other travel guidance from the U.S. embassy or consulate.\n\nVisit [de.usembassy.gov](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/)\n\nLearn more about U.S. and Germany relations at [State.gov](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/countries-areas\/germany\/)\n\n## Travel advisory - Federal Republic of Germany\n### Level 2 - Exercise increased caution\nDate issued: May 13, 2025 -\n\nadvisory history\n\n- Terrorism (T)\n## Exercise increased caution  in **Germany** due to **terrorism**.\n### Advisory summary\nTerrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles. Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target:\n\n- Tourist locations\n- Transportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations)\n- Markets and shopping malls\n- Local government facilities\n- Hotels, clubs, and restaurants\n- Places of worship and educational institutions\n- Parks\n- Major sporting and cultural events\n- Schools\n\n### If you decide to travel to Germany:\n- Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.\n- Follow the instructions of local authorities.\n- Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.\n- **Enroll in the [Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)](https:\/\/mytravel.state.gov\/s\/step).**\n- Review the [Country Security Report](https:\/\/www.osac.gov\/Content\/Report\/4a32163b-977b-483c-9885-227652b31e8c) for Germany.\n- Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the\n  \n  [International Travel Checklist](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/checklist.html)\n  \n  .\n- Visit the CDC page for the latest [Travel Health Information](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/destinations\/traveler\/none\/germany) related to your travel and return to the United States.\n- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.\n\nScroll to review full advisory\n\nTravel advisory levels\n\nLearn more about\n\n[Travel Advisory](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories.html) levels\n\n1. Exercise normal precautions\n2. Exercise increased caution\n3. Reconsider travel\n4. Do not travel\n\n[Explore the full map](https:\/\/travelmaps.state.gov\/TSGMap\/)\n\n## About Germany\nGermany is in Europe, in the Northern Hemisphere. It has maritime borders with the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It shares land borders with Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands.\n\nGermany is slightly smaller than Montana. It has 1 main time zone, Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time. Germany switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST) in the warmer months.\n\nGermany is normally 6 hours ahead of Washington, D.C. There are short periods when the time difference is only 5 hours because Germany has different start and end times for daylight saving time.\n\n### Travel requirements\n#### Tourist visa requirements\n- No visa is required for stays less than 90 days.\n\n#### Vaccinations\n- No vaccinations are required.\n\n#### Valid passport requirements\n- Must have 3 months validity beyond your date of departure.\n- Must have 2 blank passport pages.\n- 6 months passport validity recommended, but not required.\n\n#### Currency on entry and exit\n- **Entry:** Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared\n- **Exit:** Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared.\n\n### Tips from the U.S. embassy\n- Check with the [German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices](https:\/\/www.bfarm.de\/EN\/Home\/_node.html) to ensure your medication is legal.\n- It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the \"Third Reich.\"\n- Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German \"Alpen Verein.\"\n\n### Help for U.S. citizens\nU.S. Embassy Berlin\n\nU.S. Embassy Berlin\n\nU.S. Embassy Berlin\n\nClayallee 170  \n 14191 Berlin  \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\n**Main telephone:**\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\n**Emergency after-hours:**\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\n**Email:**\n\n[ACSBerlin@state.gov](mailto:ACSBerlin@state.gov)\n\n**Fax:**\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-1215](tel:+49-30-8305-1215)\n\n**Website:** <https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/>\n\nSave contact to device\n\nEMBASSY UPDATE\n\n[Previous messages](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/)\n\n***\n[Review full alert](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/)\n\nMessage failed to load\n***\nWe are unable to load the message. Visit the main [U.S. embassy or consulate website](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/) for updates.\n\nGet embassy updates right to your inbox\n\n![Enroll In Step](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/dam\/tsg_aem\/universal\/Enroll_in_step.png)\n\n[Review how STEP works](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html)\n\n## Travel guidance for Germany\nExplore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad.\n\nSelect a topic\n\n1. Entry, exit, and visa requirements\n2. Safety and security\n3. Local laws and customs\n4. Health\n5. Transportation\n6. Weather and natural disasters\n7. U.S. citizens living abroad\n8. Embassies and consulates\n\n### Entry, exit, and visa requirements\n#### Helpful resources\n- [Embassy of Germany in the United States](https:\/\/www.germany.info\/us-en\/embassy-consulates\/embassy-washington)\n- [U.S. Travelers in Europe’s Schengen Area](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/europe.html)\n- [Schengen Area Visa Information](https:\/\/schengenvisainfo.com\/)\n- [Dual Nationality](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/dual-nationality.html)\n- [Prevention of International Child Abduction](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/International-Parental-Child-Abduction.html)\n- [Customs Regulations](https:\/\/www.germany.info\/us-en\/embassy-consulates\/embassy-washington)\n***\n#### Traveling through Europe\nIf you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, be familiar with the requirements of the**[Schengen Agreement](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/europe.html)**.\n\n- Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our information on **[U.S. Travelers in Europe](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/europe.html)**.\n- We recommend you have at least 6 month’s validity remaining in your passport.\n- You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.\n- For more information about visas for the Schengen area, review the [Schengen Visa](https:\/\/schengenvisainfo.com\/) page.\n- Visit the\n  **[Embassy of Germany website](https:\/\/www.germany.info\/us-en\/embassy-consulates\/embassy-washington)**\n  for the most current visa information.\n***\n#### Prescription medications\n#### **If traveling with prescription medications, review all requirements related to pharmaceuticals below to avoid potential fines and confiscation.**\n***\n#### HIV and AIDS restrictions\nThe U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany.\n\n### Safety and security\n#### Emergency phone numbers\nLocal authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.\n\n- **[Dial 112](tel:%20Dial%20112)**\n  for ambulance services.\n- **[Dial 110](tel:Dial%20110)**\n  for the police.\n\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at **[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:%20+49-30-8305-0)** to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities).\n***\n#### Terrorism\nCredible information indicates terrorist groups and individuals radicalized or inspired by terrorist organizations and Jihadi ideology remain a persistent threat in Germany and Europe at large.\n\nEuropean governments are acting to prevent terrorist attacks. However, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.\n\n[Terrorist attacks from groups](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/terrorism.html) and radicalized individuals aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles.\n\nTerrorists may target crowds at:\n\n- High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)\n- Tourist sites.\n- Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants\n- Places of worship\n- Schools\n- Parks\n- Shopping malls and markets\n- Public transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)\n***\n#### Crime\nViolent crime is rare in Germany but can occur. It is more common in larger cities, large metropolitan subway systems, and in train stations.\n\n- Most crimes occur during late night or early morning hours.\n- Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing.\n- Theft and pickpocketing mainly happen at train stations and on public transport. They also occur at tourist spots and large public events.\n\n**Tips to stay safe:**\n\n- Always pay close attention to your valuables.\n- Stay aware of your surroundings.\n- Exercise caution when gathering in popular expatriate hangouts.\n- 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.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/laws.html)\n***\n#### Demonstrations\nDemonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays like **German Labor Day on May 1**, and during international events.\n\n- Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.\n- Demonstration organizers must get approval from the police first. Authorities usually watch over the participants.\n- Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.\n- Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information before travel.\n***\nScams\n\nFollow the Department of State guidelines to [protect yourself from scams](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/scams.html) and learn how the FBI can help.\n\nFinancial scams are common in Germany. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters, with scammers pretending to be U.S. citizens in need of help.\n\n**Tips to avoid scammers:**\n\n- Look for red flags. These include a faraway location, or new social media profile. Also, beware if the relationship is moving too quickly or if they ask for money.\n- Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.\n- If they ask for help, refer them instead to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate.\n\nIf you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer.\n\n**Common scams include:**\n\n- People claiming to be U.S. military personnel\n- Romance and online dating\n- Money transfers\n- Lucrative sales\n- Gold purchase\n- Contracts with promises of large commissions\n- Grandparent and relative targeting (e.g., kidnapping, relative is “arrested,” or medical emergency).\n- Free trip or luggage\n- Lotteries\n- Inheritance notices\n- Work permits and job offers\n- Bank overpayments\n***\nTechnology use abroad\n\nMobile devices can be compromised, stolen, and damaged anywhere in the world.\n\n- Keep all operating system and apps updated.\n- Use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN or VoIP are reputable and U.S. based.\n- Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.\n\nGPS navigation and dating apps\n\nGPS apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country.\n\n- Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe.\n- The shortest route may not be the safest.\n- Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks.\n- Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.\n***\nVictims of crime\n\nU.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.\n\nLocal authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.\n\n- [Dial 112](tel:%20112) for ambulance services.\n- [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for the police.\n- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at [\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities).\n\nReview our information on help for [U.S. Victims of Crime Abroad.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/victims-crime.html)\n\nWe can:\n\n- Help you find appropriate medical care.\n- Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.\n- Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.\n- Provide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.\n- Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.\n- Provide information on [victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/financial.html)\n- Provide information on [victim’s compensation and support in Germany](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/victims-of-crime\/).\n- Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States, and, or limited medical support in cases of destitution.\n- Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.\n- Replace a lost or stolen passport.\n- We also maintain information on our website on how to [report child abuse situations to the local authorities](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/victims-of-crime\/?_ga=2.187627240.1352136873.1661282731-1333986367.1661282731).\n***\nDomestic violence\n\nU.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance.\n\n- [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for emergencies.\n- [Dial 030-8305-0](tel:%20030-8305-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-30-8305-0](tel:01149-30-8305-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Berlin Embassy.\n- [Dial 069-7535-0](tel:069-7535-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-69-7535-0](tel:%2001149-69-7535-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Frankfurt Consulate General.\n- [Dial 089-2888-0](tel:%20089-2888-0) from within Germany or [dial 011-49-89-2888-0](tel:011-49-89-2888-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Munich Consulate General.\n***\nTourism\n\nThe tourism industry is generally regulated.\n\n- Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.\n- Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.\n- Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities.\n- If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country.\n- In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist.\n- U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.\n- Review our webpage for more [information on insurance providers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html) for overseas coverage.\n***\nAdventure sports\n\n- Every year, many people are injured or killed 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.\n- Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German “Alpen Verein.”\n- If injured, you can find good medical care across the country. However, outside major cities, it might take longer for first responders and doctors to provide life-saving care.\n- U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Learn more about insurance providers and coverage abroad.\n\n### Local laws and customs\nCriminal penalties\n\nYou are subject to local laws.\n\n- If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison.\n- If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.\n***\nArrest notification\n\nIf [arrested or detained](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/arrest-detention.html), ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.\n***\nCustoms regulations\n\nGermany has strict customs regulations on:\n\n- Temporary importation or exportation of firearms.\n- Military artifacts (from World War II)\n- Antiques\n- Medications and pharmaceuticals\n- Business equipment\n\nIt is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the \"Third Reich.\"\n\nContact the [German Embassy in Washington](https:\/\/www.germany.info\/us-en\/embassy-consulates\/embassy-washington) or a consulate in the U.S. for customs requirements.\n***\nFaith-based travelers\n\n- [Faith-Based Travel Information](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/faith-based.html)\n- [International Religious Freedom Report](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/international-religious-freedom-reports\/) – review country reports\n- [Human Rights Report](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/reports-bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor\/country-reports-on-human-rights-practices\/) – review country reports\n***\nVolunteering abroad\n\n- [Tips for Volunteering Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/volunteering.html)\n***\nGay and lesbian travelers\n\n- Germany has no laws criminalizing consensual, same-sex sexual relations or restrictions on information, literature, or events focused on sexual orientation.\n- Most large city governments, including Berlin and Munich, encourage Pride events. This includes those in Cologne, Hamburg, and Frankfurt.\n- Same-sex marriage is available in Germany.\n- Federal anti-discrimination laws protect people on the basis of sexual orientation.\n\nFor more information:\n\n- [Human Rights Report for Germany](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/reports-bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor\/country-reports-on-human-rights-practices\/)\n***\nTravelers with accessibility needs\n\nThe law in Germany prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is enforced.\n\n- Social acceptance of people with disabilities in public is as common as in the United States.\n- Accessibility can be limited in older public transportation and lodging. This is especially the case outside of major cities.\n- Older buildings may not be accessible to people with disabilities.\n- Before traveling, check your hotel or destination. Learn about options for disabled travelers.\n- All German airports, and airlines such as Lufthansa, offer services for disabled travelers.\n- The German National Railway, Deutsche Bahn, maintains a mobility resource webpage.\n- For more information visit the [German National Tourist Board](https:\/\/www.germany.travel\/en\/accessible-germany\/accessible-travel.html).\n***\nStudents\n\n- [Tips for Students Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/safety-tips\/studying.html)\n- [FBI travel tips for U.S. Students](https:\/\/ucr.fbi.gov\/investigate\/counterintelligence\/student-brochure)\n***\nWomen travelers\n\n- [Tips for Women Travelers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/personal-needs\/women.html)\n\n### Health\nHealth Resources\n\n- [CDC's Germany Traveler Information](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/destinations\/traveler\/none\/germany)\n- [CDC's Health Traveler Information](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/)\n- [CDC's Medical Tourism information](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/yellow-book\/hcp\/health-care-abroad\/medical-tourism.html)\n- [NASA's International Air Quality Index](https:\/\/aeronet.gsfc.nasa.gov\/new_web\/aqforecast)\n- [Travel Insurance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html)\n- [WHO's Germany Health Information](https:\/\/www.who.int\/germany\/)\n***\nEmergency phone numbers\n\n- [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for police\n- [Dial 112](tel:112) for emergency services. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant.\n\nGermany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names are different from those available in the United States.\n\nAmbulance services\n\nAmbulances are widely available.\n***\nMedical payments and insurance\n\n- The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.\n- U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work abroad.\n- Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.\n- Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments.\n- Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on [types of insurance available](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/page\/insurance).\n- We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our [Medicine and Health](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/medicine-health.html) page for more information.\n***\nVaccinations\n\nStay up to date on [all vaccinations](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/destinations\/traveler\/none\/germany) recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.\n\nFurther health information:\n\n- [World Health Organization Travel advice page](https:\/\/www.who.int\/travel-advice)\n- [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/destinations\/traveler\/none\/germany)\n***\nAir quality\n\nAir quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter.\n\nPeople at highest risk from particle pollution:\n\n- Infants, children, and teens\n- Anyone over 65 years of age\n- Have lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.\n- Have heart disease or diabetes\n- Work or are active outdoors\n\nAir pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.\n\n- Check [NASA’s Air Quality Forecast](https:\/\/aeronet.gsfc.nasa.gov\/new_web\/aqforecast). It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Germany.\n- For information about common air pollutants, check the [CDC’s Air Quality page](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/air-quality\/pollutants\/) .\n- For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the [EPA’s AirNow](https:\/\/www.airnow.gov\/aqi\/aqi-basics\/) .\n- For general health information, visit the [Medicine and Health](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/medicine-health.html) page.\n- The U.S. embassy and consulates maintain [lists of doctors and medical services](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/medical-assistance\/#doctor) in Germany. We do not recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.\n***\nMedical tourism and elective surgery\n\n- Many U.S. citizens suffer serious complications or die from cosmetic or other elective surgeries.\n- Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry.\n- U.S. citizens seeking healthcare abroad should know that medical systems differ from those in the United States and follow different rules.\n- Consult your doctor before traveling for medical reasons.\n- Learn about the risks of [medical tourism from the CDC](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/page\/medical-tourism) and find out how to prepare before traveling to Germany.\n- We recommend buying [supplemental insurance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html) that covers evacuation for unexpected medical issues.\n***\nPharmaceuticals\n\n- Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.\n- Check with the [German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices](https:\/\/www.bfarm.de\/EN\/Home\/_node.html) to ensure the medication is legal in Germany.\n- For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.\n- Check [the list of medications PDF](https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de%2Ffileadmin%2FDateien%2F3_Downloads%2FGesetze_und_Verordnungen%2FGuV%2FA%2FAnnexIII_marketable_and_prescribable_narcotic_drugs_072010.pdf&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nq3vUR9WITIc9UxW%2BtX3S%2Bl4oBeIZeNNpkfC3bXF048%3D&reserved=0) . If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a [certification form PDF](https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bfarm.de%2FSharedDocs%2FDownloads%2FDE%2FBundesopiumstelle%2FBetaeubungsmittel%2FReisen%2Freise_andere_formular.pdf%3Bjsessionid%3D7C93E7D191B6D0BD19B1E9F81AC6634B.intranet262%3F__blob%3DpublicationFile&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9p49E2yW%2F5MtqvsLTTCo7urlFGqLBGazbNbOZ5molr8%3D&reserved=0)\n  - You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.” There is no such authority in the United States. Please have your doctor certify the form. They should enter their practice info in part E. A stamp or seal from their office is ideal.\n- You can't receive prescription medications by mail in Germany. The strict customs rules require special permissions.\n- Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Consult with a medical professional and buy from reputable establishments.\n- 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.\n- Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Get more information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the [Food and Drug Administration](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/).\n***\nAssisted reproductive technology and surrogacy (ART)\n\n- The Department of State provides information on [ART and surrogacy abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/legal\/travel-legal-considerations\/us-citizenship\/Assisted-Reproductive-Technology-ART-Surrogacy-Abroad.html).\n- All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany.\n- For additional information, visit [German Foreign Ministry](https:\/\/www.auswaertiges-amt.de\/en\/) (German language only).\n***\nAdventure travel\n\n- [Tips for Adventure Travel](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/page\/adventure)\n\n### Transportation\nHelpful resources\n\n- [Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/driving-transportation.html)\n- [Driving in Germany](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/driving-in-germany\/)\n- [Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMVI)](https:\/\/www.bmv.de\/EN\/Topics\/Mobility\/Road\/Road-Safety\/road-safety.html#:~:text=The%20number%20of%20road%20fatalities,fatality%20is%20one%20too%20many.)\n- [Dial 112](tel:%20112) for emergency services or roadside assistance.\n***\nRoad conditions and safety\n\nRoad conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States:\n\n- Driver errors are a leading cause of accidents involving U.S. citizen motorists in Germany.\n- If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license, you can drive in [Germany for up to 6 months](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/driving-in-germany\/?_ga=2.204184272.1797460205.1701971157-116128102.1701971156) without acquiring a German driver’s license.\n- Many German traffic laws and traffic signs are different from those in the United States.\n- Speed limits are posted on large stretches of the highway, on the Autobahn in urban areas, and when the road has many curves.\n- Although high speeds are permitted on the Autobahn, adverse weather conditions and unfamiliar road markings may pose significant hazards.\n- Speed limits are strictly enforced.\n- Use of seat belts is required in front and back seats.\n- Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks.\n- These items must always be in your vehicle: Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle.\n- In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow or all-season tires (M+S marking). Otherwise, you will be fined.\n***\nBicycles\n\n- German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes.\n- Bicycles have priority in bike lanes over pedestrians and cars.\n- Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets.\n- Before turning onto side streets, check for cyclists. Do this even if the light is green.\n- You will be responsible for any injury or damage if you turn into a side street and hit a cyclist in a marked bike lane.\n- If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes.\n***\nTraffic laws\n\nIn Germany, if you're in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you must stay with your vehicle and wait for the police to arrive.\n\n- It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Germany.\n- Except on priority roads, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way.\n- It is illegal in Germany to pass vehicles on the right.\n- Germans strictly observe the ‘slower traffic keep right’ rule.\n- It is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher.\n- You could be fined and have your driver's license suspended for a set period, depending on the severity of the violation.\n***\nPublic transportation\n\nGermany has a safe, extensive public transport system of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways.\n\n- **Taxis:** Available throughout Germany.\n- **Rideshare:** Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany.\n- **All public transport:** Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation.\n\nStrikes in Germany can disrupt public transportation and travel plans. We recommend checking schedules before you travel.\n***\nAviation safety oversight\n\nThe U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. [FAA’s website](https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/about\/initiatives\/iasa) includes more information on its assessment program.\n***\nMaritime travel\n\nMariners planning travel to Germany should check the following:\n\n- U.S. Coast Guard Homeport Directory\n- [U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories](https:\/\/www.maritime.dot.gov\/msci-advisories \"https:\/\/www.maritime.dot.gov\/msci-advisories\")\n- [MARAD Active Maritime Alerts](https:\/\/www.maritime.dot.gov\/msci-alerts \"https:\/\/www.maritime.dot.gov\/msci-alerts\")\n- [Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings](https:\/\/msi.nga.mil\/NavWarnings \"https:\/\/msi.nga.mil\/navwarnings\")\n\n### Weather and natural disasters\nWeather events\n\nThe top 3 weather events in Germany include:\n\n- **Severe storms:** Intense thunderstorms are common. These are often accompanied by:\n  - Heavy rain\n  - Hail\n  - Strong winds\n\nThese weather events can cause flooding, damage to property, and disruptions to transportation.\n\n- **Winter weather (snow and ice):** Heavy snow, freezing temps, and ice are common in winter. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions, transport delays, and potential power outages.\n- **Heatwaves:** Prolonged periods of extreme heat in the summer. This can lead to droughts, wildfires, health risks, and strain on energy resources.\n\n### U.S. citizens living abroad\nLiving abroad resouces\n\nIf you live abroad for a long time, you or your family may experience various [life events](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad.html) .\n\n- Learn how to prepare for life events like\n  \n  [voting](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/voting.html)\n  \n  ,\n  \n  [getting married](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/marriage.html)\n  \n  , or the\n  \n  [birth of a child](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/birth.html)\n  \n  .\n- Ensure you have a plan for **[healthcare or insurance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html)** abroad.\n- Even abroad, you still have **[certain obligations](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/living-abroad\/federal-benefits-obligations.html)** such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.\n\n### Embassies and consulates\n#### U.S. Embassy Berlin\nClayallee 170  \n 14191 Berlin  \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nMain telephone:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nEmail:\n\n[ACSBerlin@state.gov](mailto:ACSBerlin@state.gov)\n\nFax:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-1215](tel:+49-30-8305-1215)\n\nWebsite: <https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/>\n***\n#### U.S. Consulate General Dusseldorf\nWilli-Becker-Allee 10   \n 40227 Duesseldorf   \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nMain telephone:\n\n[\\+49-69-7535-0](tel:+49-69-7535-0)\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nFax:\n\n[\\+49-69-7535-2252](tel:+49-69-7535-2252)\n\nWebsite: <https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/u-s-consulate-general-dusseldorf\/>\n\nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt.\n***\n#### U.S. Consulate General Frankfurt\nGiessener Str. 30  \n 60435 Frankfurt am Main  \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nMain telephone:\n\n[\\+49-69-7535-0](tel:+49-69-7535-0)\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\n[\\+49-69-7535-0](tel:+49-69-7535-0)\n\nEmail:\n\n[GermanyACS@state.gov](mailto:GermanyACS@state.gov)\n\nFax:\n\n[\\+49-69-7535-2252](tel:%20+49-69-7535-2252)\n\nWebsite: <https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/contact\/#frankfurt>\n\nPassport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and Citizenship: [FrankfurtPassports@state.gov](mailto:FrankfurtPassports@state.gov)\n***\n#### U.S. Consulate General Hamburg\nKehrwieder 8  \n 20457 Hamburg   \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nMain telephone:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nFax:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-1050](tel:+49-30-8305-1050)\n\nWebsite: <https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/hamburg-consular-region\/>\n\nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.\n***\n#### U.S. Consulate General Leipzig\nWilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4   \n 04107 Leipzig   \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nMain telephone:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nFax:\n\n[\\+49-30-8305-1050](tel:+49-30-8305-1050)\n\nWebsite: <https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/contact\/#leipzig>\n\nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.\n***\n#### U.S. Consulate General Munich\nKoeniginstrasse 5  \n 80539 Munich  \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nMain telephone:\n\n[\\+49-89-2888-0](tel:+49-89-2888-0)\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\n[\\+49-89-2888-0](tel:+49-89-2888-0)\n\nEmail:\n\n[ACSMunich@state.gov](mailto:ACSMunich@state.gov)\n\nFax:\n\nIf you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number.\n\nWebsite: <https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/consul-general-munich\/>\n\n### Travel Advisory History\nMay 13, 2025: Level 2 - Exercise increased caution\n\nRisk indicators:\n\n- Terrorism (T)\n\nThere were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.\n\n#### Learn about another destination\nSelect your destination:\n\nGo\n\nGet embassy updates right to your inbox\n\n![Enroll In Step](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/dam\/tsg_aem\/universal\/Enroll_in_step.png)\n\n[Review how STEP works](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html)\n\nLast Updated:\n\nOwned by Bureau of Consular Affairs\n\n[Return to top](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/germany.html#topOfPage)\n\n## Travel.State.Gov Services\n- [U.S. Passports](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/passports.html)\n- [U.S. Visas](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas.html)\n- [International Travel](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel.html)\n- [Intercountry Adoption](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/Intercountry-Adoption.html)\n- [International Parental Child Abduction](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/International-Parental-Child-Abduction.html)\n- [Replace or Certify Documents](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/replace-certify-docs.html)\n\n## Information\n- [About](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/about-us.html)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/careers.state.gov\/)\n- [Newsroom](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/News\/newsroom.html)\n- [Travel Advisories](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories.html)\n- [Find U.S. Embassies and Consulates](http:\/\/www.usembassy.gov\/)\n\n## Legal Resources\n- [Legal Information](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/legal.html)\n- [Info for U.S. Law Enforcement](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/consularnotification.html)\n- [Reports and Statistics](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/about-us\/reports-and-statistics.html)\n\n## Login\n- [MyTravelGov Login](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/about-us\/mytravelgov.html)\n\nThe State Department provides external links solely for our readers' information and convenience. [Disclaimer Details](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/copyright-disclaimer.html)\n\n## Follow Us\n- [![travelgov-on-Facebook](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/usa-icons\/facebook.svg)](http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Bureau-of-Consular-Affairs\/9229303148)\n- [![travelgov-on-Instagram](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/usa-icons\/instagram.svg)](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/travelgov\/)\n- [![travelgov-on-X](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/usa-icons\/x.svg)](http:\/\/twitter.com\/TravelGov)\n- [![travelgov-on-YouTube](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/usa-icons\/youtube.svg)](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@TravelGov)\n- [![RSS](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/usa-icons\/rss_feed.svg)](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/rss.html)\n\n[![Department of State logo](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/etc.clientlibs\/tsg_aem\/clientlibs\/clientlib-site\/resources\/images\/tsg\/DoS_seal.png)](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/germany.html)\n\nTravel.State.Gov\n\nAn official website of the [Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/bureaus-offices\/under-secretary-for-management\/bureau-of-consular-affairs\/)\n\n- [About Department of State](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/about\/)\n- [Accessibility Support](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/section-508-accessibility-statement\/)\n- [Copyright and Disclaimer](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/copyright-disclaimer.html)\n- [FOIA Requests](https:\/\/foia.state.gov\/)\n- [No FEAR Act Data](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/key-topics-office-of-civil-rights\/eeo-no-fear-act-whistleblower-protection-acts\/)\n- [Office of the Inspector General](https:\/\/www.stateoig.gov\/)\n- [Performance reports](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/department-reports\/)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/privacy-policy\/)\n\nLooking for U.S. government information and services?\n\n- [USA.gov](https:\/\/www.usa.gov\/)\n- [USA.gov\/espanol](https:\/\/www.usa.gov\/espanol\/)\n- [GSA.gov](https:\/\/www.gsa.gov\/website-information\/accessibility-statement?_gl=1*1nik4kc*_ga*MzA0MDE3MTM0LjE3MDUwOTE0NjA.*_ga_HBYXWFP794*MTcyMDUzMDQzNS4xMDguMS4xNzIwNTMwNDM3LjAuMC4w]https:\/\/www.usa.gov\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"- Terrorism (T)\n## Exercise increased caution  in **Germany** due to **terrorism**.\n### Advisory summary\nTerrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles. Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target:\n\n- Tourist locations\n- Transportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations)\n- Markets and shopping malls\n- Local government facilities\n- Hotels, clubs, and restaurants\n- Places of worship and educational institutions\n- Parks\n- Major sporting and cultural events\n- Schools\n\n###\n- Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.\n- Follow the instructions of local authorities.\n- Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.\n- **Enroll in the [Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)](https:\/\/mytravel.state.gov\/s\/step).**\n- Review the [Country Security Report](https:\/\/www.osac.gov\/Content\/Report\/4a32163b-977b-483c-9885-227652b31e8c) for Germany.\n- Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the\n  \n  [International Travel Checklist](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/checklist.html)\n  \n  .\n- Visit the CDC page for the latest [Travel Health Information](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/destinations\/traveler\/none\/germany) related to your travel and return to the United States.\n- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.\n\nScroll to review full advisory\n\n1. Exercise normal precautions\n2. Exercise increased caution\n3. Reconsider travel\n4. Do not travel\n\nGermany is in Europe, in the Northern Hemisphere. It has maritime borders with the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It shares land borders with Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands.\n\nGermany is slightly smaller than Montana. It has 1 main time zone, Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time. Germany switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST) in the warmer months.\n\nGermany is normally 6 hours ahead of Washington, D.C. There are short periods when the time difference is only 5 hours because Germany has different start and end times for daylight saving time.\n\n- No visa is required for stays less than 90 days.\n\n- No vaccinations are required.\n\n- Must have 3 months validity beyond your date of departure.\n- Must have 2 blank passport pages.\n- 6 months passport validity recommended, but not required.\n\n- **Entry:** Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared\n- **Exit:** Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared.\n\n- Check with the [German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices](https:\/\/www.bfarm.de\/EN\/Home\/_node.html) to ensure your medication is legal.\n- It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the \"Third Reich.\"\n- Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German \"Alpen Verein.\"\n\nExplore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad.\n\nSelect a topic\n\n1. Entry, exit, and visa requirements\n2. Safety and security\n3. Local laws and customs\n4. Health\n5. Transportation\n6. Weather and natural disasters\n7. U.S. citizens living abroad\n8. Embassies and consulates\n\n####\nIf you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, be familiar with the requirements of the**[Schengen Agreement](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/europe.html)**.\n\n- Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our information on **[U.S. Travelers in Europe](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/europe.html)**.\n- We recommend you have at least 6 month’s validity remaining in your passport.\n- You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.\n- For more information about visas for the Schengen area, review the [Schengen Visa](https:\/\/schengenvisainfo.com\/) page.\n- Visit the\n  **[Embassy of Germany website](https:\/\/www.germany.info\/us-en\/embassy-consulates\/embassy-washington)**\n  for the most current visa information.\n\n**If traveling with prescription medications, review all requirements related to pharmaceuticals below to avoid potential fines and confiscation.**\n\n####\nThe U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany.\n\n####\nLocal authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.\n\n- **[Dial 112](tel:%20Dial%20112)**\n  for ambulance services.\n- **[Dial 110](tel:Dial%20110)**\n  for the police.\n\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at **[\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:%20+49-30-8305-0)** to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities).\n\n####\nCredible information indicates terrorist groups and individuals radicalized or inspired by terrorist organizations and Jihadi ideology remain a persistent threat in Germany and Europe at large.\n\nEuropean governments are acting to prevent terrorist attacks. However, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.\n\n[Terrorist attacks from groups](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/global-events\/terrorism.html) and radicalized individuals aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles.\n\nTerrorists may target crowds at:\n\n- High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)\n- Tourist sites.\n- Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants\n- Places of worship\n- Schools\n- Parks\n- Shopping malls and markets\n- Public transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)\n\n####\nViolent crime is rare in Germany but can occur. It is more common in larger cities, large metropolitan subway systems, and in train stations.\n\n- Most crimes occur during late night or early morning hours.\n- Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing.\n- Theft and pickpocketing mainly happen at train stations and on public transport. They also occur at tourist spots and large public events.\n\n**Tips to stay safe:**\n\n- Always pay close attention to your valuables.\n- Stay aware of your surroundings.\n- Exercise caution when gathering in popular expatriate hangouts.\n- 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.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/laws.html)\n\n####\nDemonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays like **German Labor Day on May 1**, and during international events.\n\n- Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.\n- Demonstration organizers must get approval from the police first. Authorities usually watch over the participants.\n- Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.\n- Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information before travel.\n\nFollow the Department of State guidelines to [protect yourself from scams](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/travel-advisories\/scams.html) and learn how the FBI can help.\n\nFinancial scams are common in Germany. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters, with scammers pretending to be U.S. citizens in need of help.\n\n**Tips to avoid scammers:**\n\n- Look for red flags. These include a faraway location, or new social media profile. Also, beware if the relationship is moving too quickly or if they ask for money.\n- Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.\n- If they ask for help, refer them instead to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate.\n\nIf you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer.\n\n**Common scams include:**\n\n- People claiming to be U.S. military personnel\n- Romance and online dating\n- Money transfers\n- Lucrative sales\n- Gold purchase\n- Contracts with promises of large commissions\n- Grandparent and relative targeting (e.g., kidnapping, relative is “arrested,” or medical emergency).\n- Free trip or luggage\n- Lotteries\n- Inheritance notices\n- Work permits and job offers\n- Bank overpayments\n\nMobile devices can be compromised, stolen, and damaged anywhere in the world.\n\n- Keep all operating system and apps updated.\n- Use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN or VoIP are reputable and U.S. based.\n- Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.\n\nGPS apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country.\n\n- Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe.\n- The shortest route may not be the safest.\n- Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks.\n- Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.\n\nU.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.\n\nLocal authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.\n\n- [Dial 112](tel:%20112) for ambulance services.\n- [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for the police.\n- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at [\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities).\n\nReview our information on help for [U.S. Victims of Crime Abroad.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/victims-crime.html)\n\nWe can:\n\n- Help you find appropriate medical care.\n- Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.\n- Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.\n- Provide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.\n- Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.\n- Provide information on [victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/financial.html)\n- Provide information on [victim’s compensation and support in Germany](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/victims-of-crime\/).\n- Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States, and, or limited medical support in cases of destitution.\n- Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.\n- Replace a lost or stolen passport.\n- We also maintain information on our website on how to [report child abuse situations to the local authorities](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/victims-of-crime\/?_ga=2.187627240.1352136873.1661282731-1333986367.1661282731).\n\nU.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance.\n\n- [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for emergencies.\n- [Dial 030-8305-0](tel:%20030-8305-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-30-8305-0](tel:01149-30-8305-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Berlin Embassy.\n- [Dial 069-7535-0](tel:069-7535-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-69-7535-0](tel:%2001149-69-7535-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Frankfurt Consulate General.\n- [Dial 089-2888-0](tel:%20089-2888-0) from within Germany or [dial 011-49-89-2888-0](tel:011-49-89-2888-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Munich Consulate General.\n\nThe tourism industry is generally regulated.\n\n- Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.\n- Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.\n- Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities.\n- If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country.\n- In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist.\n- U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.\n- Review our webpage for more [information on insurance providers](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html) for overseas coverage.\n\n- Every year, many people are injured or killed 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.\n- Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German “Alpen Verein.”\n- If injured, you can find good medical care across the country. However, outside major cities, it might take longer for first responders and doctors to provide life-saving care.\n- U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Learn more about insurance providers and coverage abroad.\n\nYou are subject to local laws.\n\n- If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison.\n- If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.\n\nIf [arrested or detained](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/help-abroad\/arrest-detention.html), ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.\n\nGermany has strict customs regulations on:\n\n- Temporary importation or exportation of firearms.\n- Military artifacts (from World War II)\n- Antiques\n- Medications and pharmaceuticals\n- Business equipment\n\nIt is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the \"Third Reich.\"\n\nContact the [German Embassy in Washington](https:\/\/www.germany.info\/us-en\/embassy-consulates\/embassy-washington) or a consulate in the U.S. for customs requirements.\n\n- Germany has no laws criminalizing consensual, same-sex sexual relations or restrictions on information, literature, or events focused on sexual orientation.\n- Most large city governments, including Berlin and Munich, encourage Pride events. This includes those in Cologne, Hamburg, and Frankfurt.\n- Same-sex marriage is available in Germany.\n- Federal anti-discrimination laws protect people on the basis of sexual orientation.\n\nFor more information:\n\n- [Human Rights Report for Germany](https:\/\/www.state.gov\/reports-bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor\/country-reports-on-human-rights-practices\/)\n\nThe law in Germany prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is enforced.\n\n- Social acceptance of people with disabilities in public is as common as in the United States.\n- Accessibility can be limited in older public transportation and lodging. This is especially the case outside of major cities.\n- Older buildings may not be accessible to people with disabilities.\n- Before traveling, check your hotel or destination. Learn about options for disabled travelers.\n- All German airports, and airlines such as Lufthansa, offer services for disabled travelers.\n- The German National Railway, Deutsche Bahn, maintains a mobility resource webpage.\n- For more information visit the [German National Tourist Board](https:\/\/www.germany.travel\/en\/accessible-germany\/accessible-travel.html).\n\n- [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for police\n- [Dial 112](tel:112) for emergency services. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant.\n\nGermany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names are different from those available in the United States.\n\nAmbulances are widely available.\n\n- The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.\n- U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work abroad.\n- Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.\n- Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments.\n- Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on [types of insurance available](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/page\/insurance).\n- We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our [Medicine and Health](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/medicine-health.html) page for more information.\n\nAir quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter.\n\nPeople at highest risk from particle pollution:\n\n- Infants, children, and teens\n- Anyone over 65 years of age\n- Have lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.\n- Have heart disease or diabetes\n- Work or are active outdoors\n\nAir pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.\n\n- Check [NASA’s Air Quality Forecast](https:\/\/aeronet.gsfc.nasa.gov\/new_web\/aqforecast). It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Germany.\n- For information about common air pollutants, check the [CDC’s Air Quality page](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/air-quality\/pollutants\/) .\n- For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the [EPA’s AirNow](https:\/\/www.airnow.gov\/aqi\/aqi-basics\/) .\n- For general health information, visit the [Medicine and Health](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/medicine-health.html) page.\n- The U.S. embassy and consulates maintain [lists of doctors and medical services](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/medical-assistance\/#doctor) in Germany. We do not recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.\n\n- Many U.S. citizens suffer serious complications or die from cosmetic or other elective surgeries.\n- Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry.\n- U.S. citizens seeking healthcare abroad should know that medical systems differ from those in the United States and follow different rules.\n- Consult your doctor before traveling for medical reasons.\n- Learn about the risks of [medical tourism from the CDC](https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/page\/medical-tourism) and find out how to prepare before traveling to Germany.\n- We recommend buying [supplemental insurance](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/en\/international-travel\/planning\/guidance\/insurance.html) that covers evacuation for unexpected medical issues.\n\n- Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.\n- Check with the [German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices](https:\/\/www.bfarm.de\/EN\/Home\/_node.html) to ensure the medication is legal in Germany.\n- For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.\n- Check [the list of medications PDF](https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de%2Ffileadmin%2FDateien%2F3_Downloads%2FGesetze_und_Verordnungen%2FGuV%2FA%2FAnnexIII_marketable_and_prescribable_narcotic_drugs_072010.pdf&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nq3vUR9WITIc9UxW%2BtX3S%2Bl4oBeIZeNNpkfC3bXF048%3D&reserved=0) . If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a [certification form PDF](https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bfarm.de%2FSharedDocs%2FDownloads%2FDE%2FBundesopiumstelle%2FBetaeubungsmittel%2FReisen%2Freise_andere_formular.pdf%3Bjsessionid%3D7C93E7D191B6D0BD19B1E9F81AC6634B.intranet262%3F__blob%3DpublicationFile&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9p49E2yW%2F5MtqvsLTTCo7urlFGqLBGazbNbOZ5molr8%3D&reserved=0)\n  - You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.” There is no such authority in the United States. Please have your doctor certify the form. They should enter their practice info in part E. A stamp or seal from their office is ideal.\n- You can't receive prescription medications by mail in Germany. The strict customs rules require special permissions.\n- Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Consult with a medical professional and buy from reputable establishments.\n- 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.\n- Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Get more information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the [Food and Drug Administration](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/).\n\n- The Department of State provides information on [ART and surrogacy abroad](https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/legal\/travel-legal-considerations\/us-citizenship\/Assisted-Reproductive-Technology-ART-Surrogacy-Abroad.html).\n- All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany.\n- For additional information, visit [German Foreign Ministry](https:\/\/www.auswaertiges-amt.de\/en\/) (German language only).\n\nRoad conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States:\n\n- Driver errors are a leading cause of accidents involving U.S. citizen motorists in Germany.\n- If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license, you can drive in [Germany for up to 6 months](https:\/\/de.usembassy.gov\/driving-in-germany\/?_ga=2.204184272.1797460205.1701971157-116128102.1701971156) without acquiring a German driver’s license.\n- Many German traffic laws and traffic signs are different from those in the United States.\n- Speed limits are posted on large stretches of the highway, on the Autobahn in urban areas, and when the road has many curves.\n- Although high speeds are permitted on the Autobahn, adverse weather conditions and unfamiliar road markings may pose significant hazards.\n- Speed limits are strictly enforced.\n- Use of seat belts is required in front and back seats.\n- Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks.\n- These items must always be in your vehicle: Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle.\n- In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow or all-season tires (M+S marking). Otherwise, you will be fined.\n\n- German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes.\n- Bicycles have priority in bike lanes over pedestrians and cars.\n- Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets.\n- Before turning onto side streets, check for cyclists. Do this even if the light is green.\n- You will be responsible for any injury or damage if you turn into a side street and hit a cyclist in a marked bike lane.\n- If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes.\n\nIn Germany, if you're in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you must stay with your vehicle and wait for the police to arrive.\n\n- It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Germany.\n- Except on priority roads, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way.\n- It is illegal in Germany to pass vehicles on the right.\n- Germans strictly observe the ‘slower traffic keep right’ rule.\n- It is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher.\n- You could be fined and have your driver's license suspended for a set period, depending on the severity of the violation.\n\nGermany has a safe, extensive public transport system of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways.\n\n- **Taxis:** Available throughout Germany.\n- **Rideshare:** Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany.\n- **All public transport:** Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation.\n\nStrikes in Germany can disrupt public transportation and travel plans. We recommend checking schedules before you travel.\n\nThe U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. [FAA’s website](https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/about\/initiatives\/iasa) includes more information on its assessment program.\n\n- **Severe storms:** Intense thunderstorms are common. These are often accompanied by:\n  - Heavy rain\n  - Hail\n  - Strong winds\n\nThese weather events can cause flooding, damage to property, and disruptions to transportation.\n\n- **Winter weather (snow and ice):** Heavy snow, freezing temps, and ice are common in winter. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions, transport delays, and potential power outages.\n- **Heatwaves:** Prolonged periods of extreme heat in the summer. This can lead to droughts, wildfires, health risks, and strain on energy resources.\n\nClayallee 170  \n 14191 Berlin  \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nWilli-Becker-Allee 10   \n 40227 Duesseldorf   \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt.\n\nGiessener Str. 30  \n 60435 Frankfurt am Main  \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nKehrwieder 8  \n 20457 Hamburg   \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.\n\nWilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4   \n 04107 Leipzig   \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nEmergency after-hours:\n\nContact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0)\n\nConsular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.\n\nKoeniginstrasse 5  \n 80539 Munich  \n Federal Republic of Germany\n\nFax:\n\nIf you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number.","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

20 hours ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/germany.html
Last Crawled	2026-04-14 21:17:11 (20 hours ago)
First Indexed	2025-09-04 17:00:19 (7 months ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Germany
Meta Description	Prepare for your trip to Germany by reviewing the State Department Travel Advisory, entry and exit requirements, local laws, and U.S. embassy tips.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Terrorism (T) Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism . Advisory summary Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles. Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target:   Tourist locations  Transportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations)   Markets and shopping malls  Local government facilities  Hotels, clubs, and restaurants  Places of worship and educational institutions  Parks  Major sporting and cultural events  Schools 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) . Review the Country Security Report   for Germany.    Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the International Travel Checklist . Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.    We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage. Scroll to review full advisory Exercise normal precautions Exercise increased caution Reconsider travel Do not travel Germany is in Europe, in the Northern Hemisphere. It has maritime borders with the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It shares land borders with Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Germany is slightly smaller than Montana. It has 1 main time zone, Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time. Germany switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST) in the warmer months. Germany is normally 6 hours ahead of Washington, D.C. There are short periods when the time difference is only 5 hours because Germany has different start and end times for daylight saving time. No visa is required for stays less than 90 days. No vaccinations are required. Must have 3 months validity beyond your date of departure. Must have 2 blank passport pages. 6 months passport validity recommended, but not required. Entry: Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared Exit: Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared. Check with the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices  to ensure your medication is legal. It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the "Third Reich." Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German "Alpen Verein." Explore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad. Select a topic Entry, exit, and visa requirements Safety and security Local laws and customs Health Transportation Weather and natural disasters U.S. citizens living abroad Embassies and consulates If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement . Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our information on U.S. Travelers in Europe . We recommend you have at least 6 month’s validity remaining in your passport. You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. For more information about visas for the Schengen area, review the Schengen Visa page. Visit the Embassy of Germany website for the most current visa information. If traveling with prescription medications, review all requirements related to pharmaceuticals below to avoid potential fines and confiscation. The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Dial 112 for ambulance services. Dial 110 for the police. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at +49-30-8305-0 to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). Credible information indicates terrorist groups and individuals radicalized or inspired by terrorist organizations and Jihadi ideology remain a persistent threat in Germany and Europe at large. European governments are acting to prevent terrorist attacks. However, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. Terrorist attacks from groups and radicalized individuals aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles. Terrorists may target crowds at: High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Tourist sites. Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) Violent crime is rare in Germany but can occur. It is more common in larger cities, large metropolitan subway systems, and in train stations. Most crimes occur during late night or early morning hours. Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing. Theft and pickpocketing mainly happen at train stations and on public transport. They also occur at tourist spots and large public events.  Tips to stay safe: Always pay close attention to your valuables. Stay aware of your surroundings.  Exercise caution when gathering in popular 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 occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays like German Labor Day on May 1 , and during international events. Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.  Demonstration organizers must get approval from the police first. Authorities usually watch over the participants. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information before travel. Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams and learn how the FBI can help. Financial scams are common in Germany. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters, with scammers pretending to be U.S. citizens in need of help. Tips to avoid scammers: Look for red flags. These include a faraway location, or new social media profile. Also, beware if the relationship is moving too quickly or if they ask for money. Do a reverse image search on the profile picture. If they ask for help, refer them instead to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate. 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: People claiming to be U.S. military personnel Romance and online dating Money transfers Lucrative sales Gold purchase Contracts with promises of large commissions Grandparent and relative targeting (e.g., kidnapping, relative is “arrested,” or medical emergency). Free trip or luggage Lotteries Inheritance notices Work permits and job offers Bank overpayments Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, and damaged anywhere in the world. Keep all operating system and apps updated. Use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN or VoIP are reputable and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS 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. The shortest route may not be the safest. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Dial 112 for ambulance services. Dial 110 for the police. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at +49-30-8305-0 to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). Review our information on help for U.S. Victims of Crime Abroad. 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 about the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. 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 lost or stolen passport. We also maintain information on our website on how to report child abuse situations to the local authorities . U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance. Dial 110 for emergencies. Dial 030-8305-0 (within Germany) or dial 01149-30-8305-0 for calls originating from the United States for the Berlin Embassy. Dial 069-7535-0 (within Germany) or dial 01149-69-7535-0 for calls originating from the United States for the Frankfurt Consulate General. Dial 089-2888-0 from within Germany or dial 011-49-89-2888-0 for calls originating from the United States for the Munich Consulate General. The tourism industry is generally regulated. Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities. If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country. In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Review our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Every year, many people are injured or killed 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. Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German “Alpen Verein.” If injured, you can find good medical care across the country. However, outside major cities, it might take longer for first responders and doctors to provide life-saving care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Learn more about insurance providers and coverage abroad.   You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start. If arrested or detained , ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. Germany has strict customs regulations on: Temporary importation or exportation of firearms. Military artifacts (from World War II) Antiques Medications and pharmaceuticals Business equipment It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the "Third Reich." Contact the German Embassy in Washington or a consulate in the U.S. for customs requirements. Germany has no laws criminalizing consensual, same-sex sexual relations or restrictions on information, literature, or events focused on sexual orientation. Most large city governments, including Berlin and Munich, encourage Pride events. This includes those in Cologne, Hamburg, and Frankfurt. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany. Federal anti-discrimination laws protect people on the basis of sexual orientation. For more information: Human Rights Report for Germany The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is enforced. Social acceptance of people with disabilities in public is as common as in the United States. Accessibility can be limited in older public transportation and lodging. This is especially the case outside of major cities. Older buildings may not be accessible to people with disabilities. Before traveling, check your hotel or destination. Learn about options for disabled travelers. All German airports, and airlines such as Lufthansa, offer services for disabled travelers. The German National Railway, Deutsche Bahn, maintains a mobility resource webpage. For more information visit the German National Tourist Board . Dial 110 for police Dial 112 for emergency services. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant. Germany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names are different from those available in the United States. Ambulances are widely available. The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work abroad. Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance. Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments. Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance available . We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our Medicine and Health page for more information. Air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. People at highest risk from particle pollution: Infants, children, and teens Anyone over 65 years of age Have lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Have heart disease or diabetes Work or are active outdoors Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas. Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast . It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Germany. For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page . For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow . For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page. The U.S. embassy and consulates maintain lists of doctors and medical services in Germany. We do not recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. Many U.S. citizens suffer serious complications or die from cosmetic or other elective surgeries. Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. U.S. citizens seeking healthcare abroad should know that medical systems differ from those in the United States and follow different rules. Consult your doctor before traveling for medical reasons. Learn about the risks of medical tourism from the CDC and find out how to prepare before traveling to Germany. We recommend buying supplemental insurance that covers evacuation for unexpected medical issues. 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. For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.   Check the list of medications PDF  . If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a certification form PDF You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.” There is no such authority in the United States. Please have your doctor certify the form. They should enter their practice info in part E. A stamp or seal from their office is ideal. You can't receive prescription medications by mail in Germany. The strict customs rules require special permissions.  Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Consult with a medical professional and buy 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. Get more information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration . The Department of State provides information on ART and surrogacy abroad . All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany. For additional information, visit German Foreign Ministry (German language only). Road conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States: Driver errors are 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 6 months without acquiring a German driver’s license. Many German traffic laws and traffic signs are different from those in the United States. 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 may pose significant hazards. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Use of seat belts is required in front and back seats. Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks. These items must always be in your vehicle: Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle. In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow or all-season tires (M+S marking). Otherwise, you will be fined. German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. Bicycles have priority in bike lanes over pedestrians and cars. Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. Before turning onto side streets, check for cyclists. Do this even if the light is green. You will be responsible for any injury or damage if you turn into a side street and hit a cyclist in a marked bike lane. If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes. In Germany, if you're in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you must stay with your vehicle and wait for the police to arrive. 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 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 could be fined and have your driver's license suspended for a set period, depending on the severity of the violation. Germany has a safe, extensive public transport system of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. Taxis: Available throughout Germany. Rideshare: Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany. All public transport: Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation. Strikes in Germany can disrupt public transportation and travel plans. We recommend checking schedules before you travel. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program. Severe storms: Intense thunderstorms are common. These are often accompanied by: Heavy rain Hail Strong winds These weather events can cause flooding, damage to property, and disruptions to transportation. Winter weather (snow and ice): Heavy snow, freezing temps, and ice are common in winter. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions, transport delays, and potential power outages. Heatwaves: Prolonged periods of extreme heat in the summer. This can lead to droughts, wildfires, health risks, and strain on energy resources. Clayallee 170 14191 Berlin Federal Republic of Germany Willi-Becker-Allee 10 40227 Duesseldorf Federal Republic of Germany Consular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt.  Giessener Str. 30 60435 Frankfurt am Main Federal Republic of Germany Kehrwieder 8 20457 Hamburg Federal Republic of Germany Emergency after-hours: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +49-30-8305-0 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin. Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4 04107 Leipzig Federal Republic of Germany Emergency after-hours: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +49-30-8305-0 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin. Koeniginstrasse 5 80539 Munich Federal Republic of Germany Fax: If you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number.
Markdown	[Skip to content](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/germany.html#tsg_hero_container) ![US Flag](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/tsg_aem/banner-images/us_flag_small%201.png) An official website of the United States government Here's how you know Here's how you know ![Icon for US government website](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/tsg_aem/banner-images/icon-dot-gov.svg) Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. ![A lock indicating the site is secure](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/tsg_aem/banner-images/icon-https.svg) Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock (![](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/tsg_aem/banner-images/icon.svg)) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Americans in the Middle East [Americans in the Middle East should follow the latest guidance from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and can contact the U.S. Department of State to receive information or assistance.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/middle-east.html) Worldwide Caution [The Department of State advises Americans worldwide, and especially in the Middle East, to exercise increased caution.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/worldwide-caution.html) [![Travel.State.Gov US Department of State Homepage](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/tsg_aem/banner-images/logo.svg)](https://travel.state.gov/) ![Search button](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/usa-icons/search.svg) Menu ![Close button](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/usa-icons/close.svg) [Careers](https://careers.state.gov/) [About](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us.html) [Contacts](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/contact-us.html) [Login](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us/mytravelgov.html) [U.S. Passports U.S. Passports](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html) U.S. Passports [U.S. Visas U.S. Visas](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html) U.S. Visas International Travel International Travel International Travel [International Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html) Travel Advisories Planning Your Travel Living Abroad Resources Help Abroad [Travel Advisories](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html) [STEP - Smart Traveler Enrollment Program](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html) Global Events Affecting International Travel [High-Risk Areas](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/high-risk-areas.html) [Crime](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/crime.html) [Scams](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/scams.html) [Planning Your Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning.html) [International Travel Checklist](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/checklist.html) International Travel Guidance Personal Travel Needs Safety Tips for Activities [Living Abroad Resources](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad.html) [American Citizens Services Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/acs.html) [Birth](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/birth.html) [Marriage](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/marriage.html) [Divorce](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/divorce.html) [Death](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/death.html) [Retirement](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/retirement.html) [Federal Benefits and Obligations](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/federal-benefits-obligations.html) [Criminal Records Checks](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/criminal-records.html) [Voting from Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/voting.html) [Help Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad.html) [Crisis Response and Evacuations](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/crisis-response.html) [Lost or Stolen Passport Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/lost-stolen-passport.html) [Victims of Crime](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/victims-crime.html) [Arrest or Detention Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/arrest-detention.html) [Missing U.S. Citizens Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/missing-us-citizen.html) [Emergency Financial Assistance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/financial.html) [Global Events Affecting International Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events.html) [Terrorism](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/terrorism.html) [Worldwide Caution](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/worldwide-caution.html) [International Travel Guidance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance.html) [DHS Trusted Traveler Programs](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/dhs-trusted-traveler-program.html) [Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/driving-transportation.html) [Information for Travel Industry](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/travel-industry.html) [Laws Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/laws.html) [Lodging Safety](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/lodging-safety.html) [Medicine and Health](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/medicine-health.html) [Travel Insurance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) [U.S. Travelers in Europe](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/europe.html) [Personal Travel Needs](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs.html) [Accessibility Needs](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/accessibility.html) [Age 65+ Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/age-65.html) [Dual Nationality](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/dual-nationality.html) [Gay and Lesbian Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/gay-lesbian.html) [Pets](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/pets.html) [Race and Ethnicity Travel Safety](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/race-ethnicity-safety.html) [Travel with Minors](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/minors.html) [Women Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/women.html) [Safety Tips for Activities](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips.html) [Adventure Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/adventure.html) [Boating Safety and Piracy](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/boating-safety-piracy.html) [Business Travel and Work Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/business.html) [Cruise Ships](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/cruise-ships.html) [Faith-Based Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/faith-based.html) [Firearms](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/firearms.html) [Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimage Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/hajj-umrah-pilgrimage.html) [Journalists](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/journalists.html) [Studying Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/studying.html) [Volunteering Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/volunteering.html) - [International Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html) - Travel Advisories - [Travel Advisories](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html) - [STEP - Smart Traveler Enrollment Program](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html) - Global Events Affecting International Travel - [Global Events Affecting International Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events.html) - [Terrorism](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/terrorism.html) - [Worldwide Caution](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/worldwide-caution.html) - [High-Risk Areas](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/high-risk-areas.html) - [Crime](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/crime.html) - [Scams](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/scams.html) - Planning Your Travel - [Planning Your Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning.html) - [International Travel Checklist](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/checklist.html) - International Travel Guidance - [International Travel Guidance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance.html) - [DHS Trusted Traveler Programs](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/dhs-trusted-traveler-program.html) - [Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/driving-transportation.html) - [Information for Travel Industry](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/travel-industry.html) - [Laws Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/laws.html) - [Lodging Safety](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/lodging-safety.html) - [Medicine and Health](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/medicine-health.html) - [Travel Insurance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) - [U.S. Travelers in Europe](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/europe.html) - Personal Travel Needs - [Personal Travel Needs](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs.html) - [Accessibility Needs](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/accessibility.html) - [Age 65+ Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/age-65.html) - [Dual Nationality](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/dual-nationality.html) - [Gay and Lesbian Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/gay-lesbian.html) - [Pets](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/pets.html) - [Race and Ethnicity Travel Safety](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/race-ethnicity-safety.html) - [Travel with Minors](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/minors.html) - [Women Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/women.html) - Safety Tips for Activities - [Safety Tips for Activities](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips.html) - [Adventure Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/adventure.html) - [Boating Safety and Piracy](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/boating-safety-piracy.html) - [Business Travel and Work Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/business.html) - [Cruise Ships](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/cruise-ships.html) - [Faith-Based Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/faith-based.html) - [Firearms](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/firearms.html) - [Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimage Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/hajj-umrah-pilgrimage.html) - [Journalists](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/journalists.html) - [Studying Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/studying.html) - [Volunteering Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/volunteering.html) - Living Abroad Resources - [Living Abroad Resources](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad.html) - [American Citizens Services Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/acs.html) - [Birth](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/birth.html) - [Marriage](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/marriage.html) - [Divorce](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/divorce.html) - [Death](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/death.html) - [Retirement](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/retirement.html) - [Federal Benefits and Obligations](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/federal-benefits-obligations.html) - [Criminal Records Checks](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/criminal-records.html) - [Voting from Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/voting.html) - Help Abroad - [Help Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad.html) - [Crisis Response and Evacuations](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/crisis-response.html) - [Lost or Stolen Passport Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/lost-stolen-passport.html) - [Victims of Crime](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/victims-crime.html) - [Arrest or Detention Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/arrest-detention.html) - [Missing U.S. Citizens Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/missing-us-citizen.html) - [Emergency Financial Assistance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/financial.html) [Intercountry Adoption Intercountry Adoption](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption.html) Intercountry Adoption [Intercountry Parental Child Abduction Intercountry Parental Child Abduction](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/International-Parental-Child-Abduction.html) Intercountry Parental Child Abduction [Replace or Certify Documents Replace or Certify Documents](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/replace-certify-docs.html) Replace or Certify Documents [Careers](https://careers.state.gov/) [About](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us.html) [Contacts](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/contact-us.html) [Login](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us/mytravelgov.html) 1. [Home](https://travel.state.gov/en.html) 2. [International Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html) 3. [Travel Advisories](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html) 4. Germany # Germany Review the latest State Department Travel Advisory about Germany. You can plan for safe travel by following the entry and exit requirements, reviewing local laws, and other travel guidance from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Visit [de.usembassy.gov](https://de.usembassy.gov/) Learn more about U.S. and Germany relations at [State.gov](https://www.state.gov/countries-areas/germany/) ## Travel advisory - Federal Republic of Germany ### Level 2 - Exercise increased caution Date issued: May 13, 2025 - advisory history - Terrorism (T) ## Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism. ### Advisory summary Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles. Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target: - Tourist locations - Transportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations) - Markets and shopping malls - Local government facilities - Hotels, clubs, and restaurants - Places of worship and educational institutions - Parks - Major sporting and cultural events - Schools ### 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)](https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step). - Review the [Country Security Report](https://www.osac.gov/Content/Report/4a32163b-977b-483c-9885-227652b31e8c) for Germany. - Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the [International Travel Checklist](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/checklist.html) . - Visit the CDC page for the latest [Travel Health Information](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/germany) related to your travel and return to the United States. - We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage. Scroll to review full advisory Travel advisory levels Learn more about [Travel Advisory](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html) levels 1. Exercise normal precautions 2. Exercise increased caution 3. Reconsider travel 4. Do not travel [Explore the full map](https://travelmaps.state.gov/TSGMap/) ## About Germany Germany is in Europe, in the Northern Hemisphere. It has maritime borders with the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It shares land borders with Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Germany is slightly smaller than Montana. It has 1 main time zone, Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time. Germany switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST) in the warmer months. Germany is normally 6 hours ahead of Washington, D.C. There are short periods when the time difference is only 5 hours because Germany has different start and end times for daylight saving time. ### Travel requirements #### Tourist visa requirements - No visa is required for stays less than 90 days. #### Vaccinations - No vaccinations are required. #### Valid passport requirements - Must have 3 months validity beyond your date of departure. - Must have 2 blank passport pages. - 6 months passport validity recommended, but not required. #### Currency on entry and exit - Entry: Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared - Exit: Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared. ### Tips from the U.S. embassy - Check with the [German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices](https://www.bfarm.de/EN/Home/_node.html) to ensure your medication is legal. - It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the "Third Reich." - Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German "Alpen Verein." ### Help for U.S. citizens U.S. Embassy Berlin U.S. Embassy Berlin U.S. Embassy Berlin Clayallee 170 14191 Berlin Federal Republic of Germany Main telephone: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Emergency after-hours: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Email: [ACSBerlin@state.gov](mailto:ACSBerlin@state.gov) Fax: [\+49-30-8305-1215](tel:+49-30-8305-1215) Website: <https://de.usembassy.gov/> Save contact to device EMBASSY UPDATE [Previous messages](https://travel.state.gov/) * [Review full alert](https://travel.state.gov/) Message failed to load * We are unable to load the message. Visit the main [U.S. embassy or consulate website](https://travel.state.gov/) for updates. Get embassy updates right to your inbox ![Enroll In Step](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/tsg_aem/universal/Enroll_in_step.png) [Review how STEP works](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html) ## Travel guidance for Germany Explore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad. Select a topic 1. Entry, exit, and visa requirements 2. Safety and security 3. Local laws and customs 4. Health 5. Transportation 6. Weather and natural disasters 7. U.S. citizens living abroad 8. Embassies and consulates ### Entry, exit, and visa requirements #### Helpful resources - [Embassy of Germany in the United States](https://www.germany.info/us-en/embassy-consulates/embassy-washington) - [U.S. Travelers in Europe’s Schengen Area](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/europe.html) - [Schengen Area Visa Information](https://schengenvisainfo.com/) - [Dual Nationality](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/dual-nationality.html) - [Prevention of International Child Abduction](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/International-Parental-Child-Abduction.html) - [Customs Regulations](https://www.germany.info/us-en/embassy-consulates/embassy-washington) * #### Traveling through Europe If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, be familiar with the requirements of the[Schengen Agreement](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/europe.html). - Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our information on [U.S. Travelers in Europe](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/europe.html). - We recommend you have at least 6 month’s validity remaining in your passport. - You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. - For more information about visas for the Schengen area, review the [Schengen Visa](https://schengenvisainfo.com/) page. - Visit the [Embassy of Germany website](https://www.germany.info/us-en/embassy-consulates/embassy-washington) for the most current visa information. * #### Prescription medications #### If traveling with prescription medications, review all requirements related to pharmaceuticals below to avoid potential fines and confiscation. * #### HIV and AIDS restrictions The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany. ### Safety and security #### Emergency phone numbers Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. - [Dial 112](tel:%20Dial%20112) for ambulance services. - [Dial 110](tel:Dial%20110) for the police. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:%20+49-30-8305-0) to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). * #### Terrorism Credible information indicates terrorist groups and individuals radicalized or inspired by terrorist organizations and Jihadi ideology remain a persistent threat in Germany and Europe at large. European governments are acting to prevent terrorist attacks. However, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. [Terrorist attacks from groups](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/terrorism.html) and radicalized individuals aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles. Terrorists may target crowds at: - High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) - Tourist sites. - Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants - Places of worship - Schools - Parks - Shopping malls and markets - Public transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) * #### Crime Violent crime is rare in Germany but can occur. It is more common in larger cities, large metropolitan subway systems, and in train stations. - Most crimes occur during late night or early morning hours. - Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing. - Theft and pickpocketing mainly happen at train stations and on public transport. They also occur at tourist spots and large public events. Tips to stay safe: - Always pay close attention to your valuables. - Stay aware of your surroundings. - Exercise caution when gathering in popular 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.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/laws.html) * #### Demonstrations Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays like German Labor Day on May 1, and during international events. - Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. - Demonstration organizers must get approval from the police first. Authorities usually watch over the participants. - Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. - Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information before travel. * Scams Follow the Department of State guidelines to [protect yourself from scams](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/scams.html) and learn how the FBI can help. Financial scams are common in Germany. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters, with scammers pretending to be U.S. citizens in need of help. Tips to avoid scammers: - Look for red flags. These include a faraway location, or new social media profile. Also, beware if the relationship is moving too quickly or if they ask for money. - Do a reverse image search on the profile picture. - If they ask for help, refer them instead to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate. 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: - People claiming to be U.S. military personnel - Romance and online dating - Money transfers - Lucrative sales - Gold purchase - Contracts with promises of large commissions - Grandparent and relative targeting (e.g., kidnapping, relative is “arrested,” or medical emergency). - Free trip or luggage - Lotteries - Inheritance notices - Work permits and job offers - Bank overpayments * Technology use abroad Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, and damaged anywhere in the world. - Keep all operating system and apps updated. - Use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN or VoIP are reputable and U.S. based. - Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS navigation and dating apps GPS 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. - The shortest route may not be the safest. - Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. - Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs. * Victims of crime U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. - [Dial 112](tel:%20112) for ambulance services. - [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for the police. - Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). Review our information on help for [U.S. Victims of Crime Abroad.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/victims-crime.html) 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 about the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. - Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. - Provide information on [victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/financial.html) - Provide information on [victim’s compensation and support in Germany](https://de.usembassy.gov/victims-of-crime/). - 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 lost or stolen passport. - We also maintain information on our website on how to [report child abuse situations to the local authorities](https://de.usembassy.gov/victims-of-crime/?_ga=2.187627240.1352136873.1661282731-1333986367.1661282731). * Domestic violence U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance. - [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for emergencies. - [Dial 030-8305-0](tel:%20030-8305-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-30-8305-0](tel:01149-30-8305-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Berlin Embassy. - [Dial 069-7535-0](tel:069-7535-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-69-7535-0](tel:%2001149-69-7535-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Frankfurt Consulate General. - [Dial 089-2888-0](tel:%20089-2888-0) from within Germany or [dial 011-49-89-2888-0](tel:011-49-89-2888-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Munich Consulate General. * Tourism The tourism industry is generally regulated. - Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. - Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. - Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities. - If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country. - In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. - U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. - Review our webpage for more [information on insurance providers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) for overseas coverage. * Adventure sports - Every year, many people are injured or killed 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. - Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German “Alpen Verein.” - If injured, you can find good medical care across the country. However, outside major cities, it might take longer for first responders and doctors to provide life-saving care. - U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Learn more about insurance providers and coverage abroad. ### Local laws and customs Criminal penalties You are subject to local laws. - If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. - If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start. * Arrest notification If [arrested or detained](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/arrest-detention.html), ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. * Customs regulations Germany has strict customs regulations on: - Temporary importation or exportation of firearms. - Military artifacts (from World War II) - Antiques - Medications and pharmaceuticals - Business equipment It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the "Third Reich." Contact the [German Embassy in Washington](https://www.germany.info/us-en/embassy-consulates/embassy-washington) or a consulate in the U.S. for customs requirements. * Faith-based travelers - [Faith-Based Travel Information](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/faith-based.html) - [International Religious Freedom Report](https://www.state.gov/international-religious-freedom-reports/) – review country reports - [Human Rights Report](https://www.state.gov/reports-bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/) – review country reports * Volunteering abroad - [Tips for Volunteering Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/volunteering.html) * Gay and lesbian travelers - Germany has no laws criminalizing consensual, same-sex sexual relations or restrictions on information, literature, or events focused on sexual orientation. - Most large city governments, including Berlin and Munich, encourage Pride events. This includes those in Cologne, Hamburg, and Frankfurt. - Same-sex marriage is available in Germany. - Federal anti-discrimination laws protect people on the basis of sexual orientation. For more information: - [Human Rights Report for Germany](https://www.state.gov/reports-bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/) * Travelers with accessibility needs The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is enforced. - Social acceptance of people with disabilities in public is as common as in the United States. - Accessibility can be limited in older public transportation and lodging. This is especially the case outside of major cities. - Older buildings may not be accessible to people with disabilities. - Before traveling, check your hotel or destination. Learn about options for disabled travelers. - All German airports, and airlines such as Lufthansa, offer services for disabled travelers. - The German National Railway, Deutsche Bahn, maintains a mobility resource webpage. - For more information visit the [German National Tourist Board](https://www.germany.travel/en/accessible-germany/accessible-travel.html). * Students - [Tips for Students Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/studying.html) - [FBI travel tips for U.S. Students](https://ucr.fbi.gov/investigate/counterintelligence/student-brochure) * Women travelers - [Tips for Women Travelers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/personal-needs/women.html) ### Health Health Resources - [CDC's Germany Traveler Information](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/germany) - [CDC's Health Traveler Information](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/) - [CDC's Medical Tourism information](https://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/health-care-abroad/medical-tourism.html) - [NASA's International Air Quality Index](https://aeronet.gsfc.nasa.gov/new_web/aqforecast) - [Travel Insurance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) - [WHO's Germany Health Information](https://www.who.int/germany/) * Emergency phone numbers - [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for police - [Dial 112](tel:112) for emergency services. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant. Germany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names are different from those available in the United States. Ambulance services Ambulances are widely available. * Medical payments and insurance - The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. - U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work abroad. - Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance. - Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments. - Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on [types of insurance available](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance). - We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our [Medicine and Health](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/medicine-health.html) page for more information. * Vaccinations Stay up to date on [all vaccinations](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/germany) recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Further health information: - [World Health Organization Travel advice page](https://www.who.int/travel-advice) - [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/germany) * Air quality Air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. People at highest risk from particle pollution: - Infants, children, and teens - Anyone over 65 years of age - Have lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. - Have heart disease or diabetes - Work or are active outdoors Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas. - Check [NASA’s Air Quality Forecast](https://aeronet.gsfc.nasa.gov/new_web/aqforecast). It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Germany. - For information about common air pollutants, check the [CDC’s Air Quality page](https://www.cdc.gov/air-quality/pollutants/) . - For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the [EPA’s AirNow](https://www.airnow.gov/aqi/aqi-basics/) . - For general health information, visit the [Medicine and Health](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/medicine-health.html) page. - The U.S. embassy and consulates maintain [lists of doctors and medical services](https://de.usembassy.gov/medical-assistance/#doctor) in Germany. We do not recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. * Medical tourism and elective surgery - Many U.S. citizens suffer serious complications or die from cosmetic or other elective surgeries. - Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. - U.S. citizens seeking healthcare abroad should know that medical systems differ from those in the United States and follow different rules. - Consult your doctor before traveling for medical reasons. - Learn about the risks of [medical tourism from the CDC](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/medical-tourism) and find out how to prepare before traveling to Germany. - We recommend buying [supplemental insurance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) that covers evacuation for unexpected medical issues. * Pharmaceuticals - 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](https://www.bfarm.de/EN/Home/_node.html) to ensure the medication is legal in Germany. - For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply. - Check [the list of medications PDF](https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de%2Ffileadmin%2FDateien%2F3_Downloads%2FGesetze_und_Verordnungen%2FGuV%2FA%2FAnnexIII_marketable_and_prescribable_narcotic_drugs_072010.pdf&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nq3vUR9WITIc9UxW%2BtX3S%2Bl4oBeIZeNNpkfC3bXF048%3D&reserved=0) . If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a [certification form PDF](https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bfarm.de%2FSharedDocs%2FDownloads%2FDE%2FBundesopiumstelle%2FBetaeubungsmittel%2FReisen%2Freise_andere_formular.pdf%3Bjsessionid%3D7C93E7D191B6D0BD19B1E9F81AC6634B.intranet262%3F__blob%3DpublicationFile&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9p49E2yW%2F5MtqvsLTTCo7urlFGqLBGazbNbOZ5molr8%3D&reserved=0) - You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.” There is no such authority in the United States. Please have your doctor certify the form. They should enter their practice info in part E. A stamp or seal from their office is ideal. - You can't receive prescription medications by mail in Germany. The strict customs rules require special permissions. - Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Consult with a medical professional and buy 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. Get more information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the [Food and Drug Administration](https://www.fda.gov/). * Assisted reproductive technology and surrogacy (ART) - The Department of State provides information on [ART and surrogacy abroad](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/travel-legal-considerations/us-citizenship/Assisted-Reproductive-Technology-ART-Surrogacy-Abroad.html). - All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany. - For additional information, visit [German Foreign Ministry](https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/) (German language only). * Adventure travel - [Tips for Adventure Travel](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/adventure) ### Transportation Helpful resources - [Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/driving-transportation.html) - [Driving in Germany](https://de.usembassy.gov/driving-in-germany/) - [Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMVI)](https://www.bmv.de/EN/Topics/Mobility/Road/Road-Safety/road-safety.html#:~:text=The%20number%20of%20road%20fatalities,fatality%20is%20one%20too%20many.) - [Dial 112](tel:%20112) for emergency services or roadside assistance. * Road conditions and safety Road conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States: - Driver errors are 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 6 months](https://de.usembassy.gov/driving-in-germany/?_ga=2.204184272.1797460205.1701971157-116128102.1701971156) without acquiring a German driver’s license. - Many German traffic laws and traffic signs are different from those in the United States. - 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 may pose significant hazards. - Speed limits are strictly enforced. - Use of seat belts is required in front and back seats. - Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks. - These items must always be in your vehicle: Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle. - In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow or all-season tires (M+S marking). Otherwise, you will be fined. * Bicycles - German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. - Bicycles have priority in bike lanes over pedestrians and cars. - Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. - Before turning onto side streets, check for cyclists. Do this even if the light is green. - You will be responsible for any injury or damage if you turn into a side street and hit a cyclist in a marked bike lane. - If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes. * Traffic laws In Germany, if you're in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you must stay with your vehicle and wait for the police to arrive. - 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 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 could be fined and have your driver's license suspended for a set period, depending on the severity of the violation. * Public transportation Germany has a safe, extensive public transport system of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. - Taxis: Available throughout Germany. - Rideshare: Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany. - All public transport: Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation. Strikes in Germany can disrupt public transportation and travel plans. We recommend checking schedules before you travel. * Aviation safety oversight The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. [FAA’s website](https://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/iasa) includes more information on its assessment program. * Maritime travel Mariners planning travel to Germany should check the following: - U.S. Coast Guard Homeport Directory - [U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories](https://www.maritime.dot.gov/msci-advisories "https://www.maritime.dot.gov/msci-advisories") - [MARAD Active Maritime Alerts](https://www.maritime.dot.gov/msci-alerts "https://www.maritime.dot.gov/msci-alerts") - [Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings](https://msi.nga.mil/NavWarnings "https://msi.nga.mil/navwarnings") ### Weather and natural disasters Weather events The top 3 weather events in Germany include: - Severe storms: Intense thunderstorms are common. These are often accompanied by: - Heavy rain - Hail - Strong winds These weather events can cause flooding, damage to property, and disruptions to transportation. - Winter weather (snow and ice): Heavy snow, freezing temps, and ice are common in winter. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions, transport delays, and potential power outages. - Heatwaves: Prolonged periods of extreme heat in the summer. This can lead to droughts, wildfires, health risks, and strain on energy resources. ### U.S. citizens living abroad Living abroad resouces If you live abroad for a long time, you or your family may experience various [life events](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad.html) . - Learn how to prepare for life events like [voting](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/voting.html) , [getting married](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/marriage.html) , or the [birth of a child](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/birth.html) . - Ensure you have a plan for [healthcare or insurance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) abroad. - Even abroad, you still have [certain obligations](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/living-abroad/federal-benefits-obligations.html) such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service. ### Embassies and consulates #### U.S. Embassy Berlin Clayallee 170 14191 Berlin Federal Republic of Germany Main telephone: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Emergency after-hours: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Email: [ACSBerlin@state.gov](mailto:ACSBerlin@state.gov) Fax: [\+49-30-8305-1215](tel:+49-30-8305-1215) Website: <https://de.usembassy.gov/> * #### U.S. Consulate General Dusseldorf Willi-Becker-Allee 10 40227 Duesseldorf Federal Republic of Germany Main telephone: [\+49-69-7535-0](tel:+49-69-7535-0) Emergency after-hours: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Fax: [\+49-69-7535-2252](tel:+49-69-7535-2252) Website: <https://de.usembassy.gov/u-s-consulate-general-dusseldorf/> Consular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt. * #### U.S. Consulate General Frankfurt Giessener Str. 30 60435 Frankfurt am Main Federal Republic of Germany Main telephone: [\+49-69-7535-0](tel:+49-69-7535-0) Emergency after-hours: [\+49-69-7535-0](tel:+49-69-7535-0) Email: [GermanyACS@state.gov](mailto:GermanyACS@state.gov) Fax: [\+49-69-7535-2252](tel:%20+49-69-7535-2252) Website: <https://de.usembassy.gov/contact/#frankfurt> Passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and Citizenship: [FrankfurtPassports@state.gov](mailto:FrankfurtPassports@state.gov) * #### U.S. Consulate General Hamburg Kehrwieder 8 20457 Hamburg Federal Republic of Germany Main telephone: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Emergency after-hours: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Fax: [\+49-30-8305-1050](tel:+49-30-8305-1050) Website: <https://de.usembassy.gov/hamburg-consular-region/> 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 Main telephone: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Emergency after-hours: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Fax: [\+49-30-8305-1050](tel:+49-30-8305-1050) Website: <https://de.usembassy.gov/contact/#leipzig> Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin. *** #### U.S. Consulate General Munich Koeniginstrasse 5 80539 Munich Federal Republic of Germany Main telephone: [\+49-89-2888-0](tel:+49-89-2888-0) Emergency after-hours: [\+49-89-2888-0](tel:+49-89-2888-0) Email: [ACSMunich@state.gov](mailto:ACSMunich@state.gov) Fax: If you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number. Website: <https://de.usembassy.gov/consul-general-munich/> ### Travel Advisory History May 13, 2025: Level 2 - Exercise increased caution Risk indicators: - Terrorism (T) There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. #### Learn about another destination Select your destination: Go Get embassy updates right to your inbox ![Enroll In Step](https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/tsg_aem/universal/Enroll_in_step.png) [Review how STEP works](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html) Last Updated: Owned by Bureau of Consular Affairs [Return to top](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/germany.html#topOfPage) ## Travel.State.Gov Services - [U.S. Passports](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html) - [U.S. Visas](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html) - [International Travel](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html) - [Intercountry Adoption](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption.html) - [International Parental Child Abduction](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/International-Parental-Child-Abduction.html) - [Replace or Certify Documents](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/replace-certify-docs.html) ## Information - [About](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us.html) - [Careers](https://careers.state.gov/) - [Newsroom](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/newsroom.html) - [Travel Advisories](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html) - [Find U.S. Embassies and Consulates](http://www.usembassy.gov/) ## Legal Resources - [Legal Information](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal.html) - [Info for U.S. Law Enforcement](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/consularnotification.html) - [Reports and Statistics](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us/reports-and-statistics.html) ## Login - [MyTravelGov Login](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us/mytravelgov.html) The State Department provides external links solely for our readers' information and convenience. [Disclaimer Details](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/copyright-disclaimer.html) ## Follow Us - [![travelgov-on-Facebook](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/usa-icons/facebook.svg)](http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bureau-of-Consular-Affairs/9229303148) - [![travelgov-on-Instagram](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/usa-icons/instagram.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/travelgov/) - [![travelgov-on-X](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/usa-icons/x.svg)](http://twitter.com/TravelGov) - [![travelgov-on-YouTube](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/usa-icons/youtube.svg)](https://www.youtube.com/@TravelGov) - [![RSS](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/usa-icons/rss_feed.svg)](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/rss.html) [![Department of State logo](https://travel.state.gov/etc.clientlibs/tsg_aem/clientlibs/clientlib-site/resources/images/tsg/DoS_seal.png)](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/germany.html) Travel.State.Gov An official website of the [Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs](https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-management/bureau-of-consular-affairs/) - [About Department of State](https://www.state.gov/about/) - [Accessibility Support](https://www.state.gov/section-508-accessibility-statement/) - [Copyright and Disclaimer](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/copyright-disclaimer.html) - [FOIA Requests](https://foia.state.gov/) - [No FEAR Act Data](https://www.state.gov/key-topics-office-of-civil-rights/eeo-no-fear-act-whistleblower-protection-acts/) - [Office of the Inspector General](https://www.stateoig.gov/) - [Performance reports](https://www.state.gov/department-reports/) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.state.gov/privacy-policy/) Looking for U.S. government information and services? - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/) - [USA.gov/espanol](https://www.usa.gov/espanol/) - [GSA.gov](https://www.gsa.gov/website-information/accessibility-statement?_gl=11nik4kc_gaMzA0MDE3MTM0LjE3MDUwOTE0NjA._ga_HBYXWFP794*MTcyMDUzMDQzNS4xMDguMS4xNzIwNTMwNDM3LjAuMC4w]https://www.usa.gov/)
Readable Markdown	- Terrorism (T) ## Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism. ### Advisory summary Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles. Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target: - Tourist locations - Transportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations) - Markets and shopping malls - Local government facilities - Hotels, clubs, and restaurants - Places of worship and educational institutions - Parks - Major sporting and cultural events - Schools ### - 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)](https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step). - Review the [Country Security Report](https://www.osac.gov/Content/Report/4a32163b-977b-483c-9885-227652b31e8c) for Germany. - Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the [International Travel Checklist](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/checklist.html) . - Visit the CDC page for the latest [Travel Health Information](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/germany) related to your travel and return to the United States. - We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage. Scroll to review full advisory 1. Exercise normal precautions 2. Exercise increased caution 3. Reconsider travel 4. Do not travel Germany is in Europe, in the Northern Hemisphere. It has maritime borders with the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It shares land borders with Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Germany is slightly smaller than Montana. It has 1 main time zone, Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time. Germany switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST) in the warmer months. Germany is normally 6 hours ahead of Washington, D.C. There are short periods when the time difference is only 5 hours because Germany has different start and end times for daylight saving time. - No visa is required for stays less than 90 days. - No vaccinations are required. - Must have 3 months validity beyond your date of departure. - Must have 2 blank passport pages. - 6 months passport validity recommended, but not required. - Entry: Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared - Exit: Over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared. - Check with the [German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices](https://www.bfarm.de/EN/Home/_node.html) to ensure your medication is legal. - It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the "Third Reich." - Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German "Alpen Verein." Explore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad. Select a topic 1. Entry, exit, and visa requirements 2. Safety and security 3. Local laws and customs 4. Health 5. Transportation 6. Weather and natural disasters 7. U.S. citizens living abroad 8. Embassies and consulates #### If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, be familiar with the requirements of the[Schengen Agreement](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/europe.html). - Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our information on [U.S. Travelers in Europe](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/europe.html). - We recommend you have at least 6 month’s validity remaining in your passport. - You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. - For more information about visas for the Schengen area, review the [Schengen Visa](https://schengenvisainfo.com/) page. - Visit the [Embassy of Germany website](https://www.germany.info/us-en/embassy-consulates/embassy-washington) for the most current visa information. If traveling with prescription medications, review all requirements related to pharmaceuticals below to avoid potential fines and confiscation. #### The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany. #### Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. - [Dial 112](tel:%20Dial%20112) for ambulance services. - [Dial 110](tel:Dial%20110) for the police. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:%20+49-30-8305-0) to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). #### Credible information indicates terrorist groups and individuals radicalized or inspired by terrorist organizations and Jihadi ideology remain a persistent threat in Germany and Europe at large. European governments are acting to prevent terrorist attacks. However, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. [Terrorist attacks from groups](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/terrorism.html) and radicalized individuals aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles. Terrorists may target crowds at: - High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) - Tourist sites. - Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants - Places of worship - Schools - Parks - Shopping malls and markets - Public transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) #### Violent crime is rare in Germany but can occur. It is more common in larger cities, large metropolitan subway systems, and in train stations. - Most crimes occur during late night or early morning hours. - Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing. - Theft and pickpocketing mainly happen at train stations and on public transport. They also occur at tourist spots and large public events. Tips to stay safe: - Always pay close attention to your valuables. - Stay aware of your surroundings. - Exercise caution when gathering in popular 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.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/laws.html) #### Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays like German Labor Day on May 1, and during international events. - Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. - Demonstration organizers must get approval from the police first. Authorities usually watch over the participants. - Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. - Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information before travel. Follow the Department of State guidelines to [protect yourself from scams](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/scams.html) and learn how the FBI can help. Financial scams are common in Germany. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters, with scammers pretending to be U.S. citizens in need of help. Tips to avoid scammers: - Look for red flags. These include a faraway location, or new social media profile. Also, beware if the relationship is moving too quickly or if they ask for money. - Do a reverse image search on the profile picture. - If they ask for help, refer them instead to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate. 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: - People claiming to be U.S. military personnel - Romance and online dating - Money transfers - Lucrative sales - Gold purchase - Contracts with promises of large commissions - Grandparent and relative targeting (e.g., kidnapping, relative is “arrested,” or medical emergency). - Free trip or luggage - Lotteries - Inheritance notices - Work permits and job offers - Bank overpayments Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, and damaged anywhere in the world. - Keep all operating system and apps updated. - Use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN or VoIP are reputable and U.S. based. - Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS 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. - The shortest route may not be the safest. - Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. - Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. - [Dial 112](tel:%20112) for ambulance services. - [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for the police. - Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). Review our information on help for [U.S. Victims of Crime Abroad.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/victims-crime.html) 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 about the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. - Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. - Provide information on [victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/financial.html) - Provide information on [victim’s compensation and support in Germany](https://de.usembassy.gov/victims-of-crime/). - 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 lost or stolen passport. - We also maintain information on our website on how to [report child abuse situations to the local authorities](https://de.usembassy.gov/victims-of-crime/?_ga=2.187627240.1352136873.1661282731-1333986367.1661282731). U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance. - [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for emergencies. - [Dial 030-8305-0](tel:%20030-8305-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-30-8305-0](tel:01149-30-8305-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Berlin Embassy. - [Dial 069-7535-0](tel:069-7535-0) (within Germany) or [dial 01149-69-7535-0](tel:%2001149-69-7535-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Frankfurt Consulate General. - [Dial 089-2888-0](tel:%20089-2888-0) from within Germany or [dial 011-49-89-2888-0](tel:011-49-89-2888-0) for calls originating from the United States for the Munich Consulate General. The tourism industry is generally regulated. - Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. - Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. - Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities. - If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country. - In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. - U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. - Review our webpage for more [information on insurance providers](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) for overseas coverage. - Every year, many people are injured or killed 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. - Alpine sports enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to register with German “Alpen Verein.” - If injured, you can find good medical care across the country. However, outside major cities, it might take longer for first responders and doctors to provide life-saving care. - U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Learn more about insurance providers and coverage abroad. You are subject to local laws. - If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. - If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start. If [arrested or detained](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/help-abroad/arrest-detention.html), ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. Germany has strict customs regulations on: - Temporary importation or exportation of firearms. - Military artifacts (from World War II) - Antiques - Medications and pharmaceuticals - Business equipment It is illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or items that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the "Third Reich." Contact the [German Embassy in Washington](https://www.germany.info/us-en/embassy-consulates/embassy-washington) or a consulate in the U.S. for customs requirements. - Germany has no laws criminalizing consensual, same-sex sexual relations or restrictions on information, literature, or events focused on sexual orientation. - Most large city governments, including Berlin and Munich, encourage Pride events. This includes those in Cologne, Hamburg, and Frankfurt. - Same-sex marriage is available in Germany. - Federal anti-discrimination laws protect people on the basis of sexual orientation. For more information: - [Human Rights Report for Germany](https://www.state.gov/reports-bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/) The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is enforced. - Social acceptance of people with disabilities in public is as common as in the United States. - Accessibility can be limited in older public transportation and lodging. This is especially the case outside of major cities. - Older buildings may not be accessible to people with disabilities. - Before traveling, check your hotel or destination. Learn about options for disabled travelers. - All German airports, and airlines such as Lufthansa, offer services for disabled travelers. - The German National Railway, Deutsche Bahn, maintains a mobility resource webpage. - For more information visit the [German National Tourist Board](https://www.germany.travel/en/accessible-germany/accessible-travel.html). - [Dial 110](tel:%20110) for police - [Dial 112](tel:112) for emergency services. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant. Germany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names are different from those available in the United States. Ambulances are widely available. - The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. - U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work abroad. - Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance. - Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments. - Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on [types of insurance available](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance). - We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our [Medicine and Health](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/medicine-health.html) page for more information. Air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. People at highest risk from particle pollution: - Infants, children, and teens - Anyone over 65 years of age - Have lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. - Have heart disease or diabetes - Work or are active outdoors Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas. - Check [NASA’s Air Quality Forecast](https://aeronet.gsfc.nasa.gov/new_web/aqforecast). It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Germany. - For information about common air pollutants, check the [CDC’s Air Quality page](https://www.cdc.gov/air-quality/pollutants/) . - For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the [EPA’s AirNow](https://www.airnow.gov/aqi/aqi-basics/) . - For general health information, visit the [Medicine and Health](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/medicine-health.html) page. - The U.S. embassy and consulates maintain [lists of doctors and medical services](https://de.usembassy.gov/medical-assistance/#doctor) in Germany. We do not recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. - Many U.S. citizens suffer serious complications or die from cosmetic or other elective surgeries. - Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. - U.S. citizens seeking healthcare abroad should know that medical systems differ from those in the United States and follow different rules. - Consult your doctor before traveling for medical reasons. - Learn about the risks of [medical tourism from the CDC](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/medical-tourism) and find out how to prepare before traveling to Germany. - We recommend buying [supplemental insurance](https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/guidance/insurance.html) that covers evacuation for unexpected medical issues. - 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](https://www.bfarm.de/EN/Home/_node.html) to ensure the medication is legal in Germany. - For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply. - Check [the list of medications PDF](https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de%2Ffileadmin%2FDateien%2F3_Downloads%2FGesetze_und_Verordnungen%2FGuV%2FA%2FAnnexIII_marketable_and_prescribable_narcotic_drugs_072010.pdf&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nq3vUR9WITIc9UxW%2BtX3S%2Bl4oBeIZeNNpkfC3bXF048%3D&reserved=0) . If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a [certification form PDF](https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bfarm.de%2FSharedDocs%2FDownloads%2FDE%2FBundesopiumstelle%2FBetaeubungsmittel%2FReisen%2Freise_andere_formular.pdf%3Bjsessionid%3D7C93E7D191B6D0BD19B1E9F81AC6634B.intranet262%3F__blob%3DpublicationFile&data=05%7C01%7CMacDonaghm%40state.gov%7C0bafb26bcfad4975e07608db6daeb6e4%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638224369383801394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9p49E2yW%2F5MtqvsLTTCo7urlFGqLBGazbNbOZ5molr8%3D&reserved=0) - You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.” There is no such authority in the United States. Please have your doctor certify the form. They should enter their practice info in part E. A stamp or seal from their office is ideal. - You can't receive prescription medications by mail in Germany. The strict customs rules require special permissions. - Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Consult with a medical professional and buy 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. Get more information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the [Food and Drug Administration](https://www.fda.gov/). - The Department of State provides information on [ART and surrogacy abroad](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/travel-legal-considerations/us-citizenship/Assisted-Reproductive-Technology-ART-Surrogacy-Abroad.html). - All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany. - For additional information, visit [German Foreign Ministry](https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/) (German language only). Road conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States: - Driver errors are 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 6 months](https://de.usembassy.gov/driving-in-germany/?_ga=2.204184272.1797460205.1701971157-116128102.1701971156) without acquiring a German driver’s license. - Many German traffic laws and traffic signs are different from those in the United States. - 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 may pose significant hazards. - Speed limits are strictly enforced. - Use of seat belts is required in front and back seats. - Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks. - These items must always be in your vehicle: Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle. - In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow or all-season tires (M+S marking). Otherwise, you will be fined. - German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. - Bicycles have priority in bike lanes over pedestrians and cars. - Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. - Before turning onto side streets, check for cyclists. Do this even if the light is green. - You will be responsible for any injury or damage if you turn into a side street and hit a cyclist in a marked bike lane. - If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes. In Germany, if you're in a traffic accident, even a minor one, you must stay with your vehicle and wait for the police to arrive. - 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 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 could be fined and have your driver's license suspended for a set period, depending on the severity of the violation. Germany has a safe, extensive public transport system of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. - Taxis: Available throughout Germany. - Rideshare: Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany. - All public transport: Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation. Strikes in Germany can disrupt public transportation and travel plans. We recommend checking schedules before you travel. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. [FAA’s website](https://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/iasa) includes more information on its assessment program. - Severe storms: Intense thunderstorms are common. These are often accompanied by: - Heavy rain - Hail - Strong winds These weather events can cause flooding, damage to property, and disruptions to transportation. - Winter weather (snow and ice): Heavy snow, freezing temps, and ice are common in winter. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions, transport delays, and potential power outages. - Heatwaves: Prolonged periods of extreme heat in the summer. This can lead to droughts, wildfires, health risks, and strain on energy resources. Clayallee 170 14191 Berlin Federal Republic of Germany Willi-Becker-Allee 10 40227 Duesseldorf Federal Republic of Germany Consular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt. Giessener Str. 30 60435 Frankfurt am Main Federal Republic of Germany Kehrwieder 8 20457 Hamburg Federal Republic of Germany Emergency after-hours: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin. Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4 04107 Leipzig Federal Republic of Germany Emergency after-hours: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: [\+49-30-8305-0](tel:+49-30-8305-0) Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin. Koeniginstrasse 5 80539 Munich Federal Republic of Germany Fax: If you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number.
Shard	103 (laksa)
Root Hash	15818340508630297303
Unparsed URL	gov,state!travel,/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/germany.html s443