Citizenship: USA
- For U.S. citizens only. If you are not a U.S. citizen, call (914) 592-2760.
- Your U.S. passport must be signed, valid for 6+ months, and have 2–3 blank visa pages (not "Amendment" pages).
- The fee for reformatting uploaded documents is $35.00..
Important Travel Update
Starting in late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries will be required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) travel authorization before visiting the European countries requiring it. We recommend checking the official European Union ETIAS website for the most current requirements and implementation timelines.
Entry Requirements
- Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter?
- Yes. As of June 20, 2021, residents of the United States are allowed to enter Germany, unless traveling from a virus-variant area from which entry is banned. The list of virus-variant areas can be found here .
- Persons entering Germany who have spent time in an RKI-designated risk area in the 10 days prior to entry are required to submit a digital registration on entry. As of June 13, 2021, the United States is no longer a designated risk area.
- Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry?
- YES, a negative COVID-19 test is required to enter Germany.
- Both PCR and rapid antigen tests are accepted; a PCR test must have been taken less than 72 hours prior to entry to Germany, a rapid antigen test less than 48 hours prior to entry.
- The test must meet the criteria laid out by RKI, and travelers will not be allowed to board their flights without a negative result.
- The testing requirement is waived for those who are fully vaccinated (15 days after the second shot of a two-dose vaccine or the first shot of a one-dose vaccine) with a vaccine listed here , as well as those who have recovered from COVID-19 in the last 6 months, unless they are entering from virus variant area. Please see further information here.
- Are health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry?
- YES, potentially including mandatory COVID-19 testing at the airport for certain travelers.
- Valid Signed Passport valid for at least six months from the last day of stay from international destination.
- No visa required traveling for tourism or business for up to 90 days.
JIDS recommends your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of stay from international destination.
Photo Requirements
- Your head must face the camera directly with full face in view.
- Neutral facial expression or natural smile, with both eyes open.
- Taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis.
- Taken in the last 6 months.
- Plain white or off-white background.
- 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- Head between 1–1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head.
- Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper, in color.
- No glasses.
- No hat or head covering (exceptions for documented religious or medical reasons).
- Full face visible; no shadows on face.
- No headphones or wireless hands-free devices.
Health Requirements
- Vaccinations are NOT required unless travel is from or through an infected area.
- Visit the Center for Disease Control: CDC.GOV for complete health requirements.
Register Your Trip (STEP)
Give yourself peace of mind.
JIDS can enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate for $25.00 via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Accompanying Minors
- Application signed by both parents/guardians.
- Notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardians.
- Original and copy of the minor's birth certificate.
Non-U.S. Citizens
- Include a copy of your U.S. Green Card (permanent residents) or your U.S. visa (visa holders).
- Visa requirements vary by nationality. Call JIDS at (914) 592-2760 for assistance.
Additional Information
Germany – Schengen State
- Passport accepted for entry must be valid for at a minimum of 3 months beyond the last day of intended stay.
- If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes. You could also be denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area. For this reason, we recommend that your passport have at least six months validity remaining whenever you travel abroad.
JIDS can help you renew it if you need more validity. If you require passport services, please refer to our passport services section.
Return Shipping & JIDS Fees
Return Shipping
- FedEx charge according to ZIP code.
- Saturday/8AM delivery available.
- Include a printed airbill to avoid extra charges. (No UPS accounts can be processed through us.)
Service Fees
- See JIDS pricing or call (914) 592-2760.
- If JIDS pays government fees on your behalf, a 5.9% processing fee applies.
