Do US citizens need a visa for Germany?

Deep breath. Here's the answer.

As a US passport holder, you can travel to Germany for tourism without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. This 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen Area within any 180-day period. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area, and a total of six months validity is recommended.

Key facts

For United States passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

You may need a visa if…

• The 90-day visa-free period applies to the entire Schengen Area, not just Germany. Be mindful of your cumulative stay across all Schengen countries.
• Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, and six months validity is strongly recommended.
• You should carry proof of sufficient funds and a return or onward ticket.
• Ensure you have at least two blank passport pages for entry/exit stamps.
• It is illegal to bring items into or out of Germany that glorify fascism, the Nazi past, or the 'Third Reich'.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and locate you in an emergency.

Before you travel

• ✓Ensure your US passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area (6 months recommended).
• ✓Verify you have at least two blank pages in your passport.
• ✓Pack proof of sufficient funds for your trip.
• ✓Have a return or onward plane ticket readily available.
• ✓Check with the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices regarding any prescription medications you are bringing.
• ✓Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Common questions