Visa, Passport and Customs
Entry/Exit System: Launching on 2nd December 2025 at Dortmund Airport
The new Entry/Exit System (EES) came into effect across Europe on 12th October. The system applies to third-country nationals, who are entering the Schengen Area for a short stay (up to 90 days within any 180-day period), regardless of whether they require a visa or not. EU citizens are not affected by the implementation of the EES.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new EU digital system that has recorded entries to and exits from the Schengen area since 12 October 2025. It records third-country nationals at the external borders of the Schengen Area, replacing the manual passport stamping. Travellers must register and provide biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints, along with personal details. The aim is to make border controls more efficient and secure.
The EES is expected to be fully operational at all Schengen border crossings by 9 April 2026.
Further information can be found on the websites of the German Federal Police and the European Union.
Even though, as an EU citizen, you can travel freely within the border-free Schengen area, we strongly recommend that you always take your identity card or passport with you as proof of your identity.
Please find out before you travel which documents you need to enter your destination country. You should also note that driving licences, bank cards and credit cards are not valid travel documents.
Documents for children and young people
Children also need a valid identity card or passport when flying. Under certain circumstances, they may also need an additional official signed document from their parents, other parent or legal guardian allowing them to travel.
When you travel from an EU member state to a non-EU country, you may need a visa as well as a valid passport. You must apply for the visa from the consulate or embassy of the country you are visiting.
Border officials can also require you to provide other documents, such as a letter of invitation, proof of accommodation or a ticket for the return journey or round trip.
If you board a flight without a valid visa, you may be refused entry by the border officials of the country in question.
It is essential that you find out about the current entry requirements before you travel. The consulate of the country in question or the German Federal Foreign Office will inform you in detail about the regulations.
If you are travelling within the EU, you can take tobacco and alcohol with you for your personal use. These products are duty-free, provided that you do not exceed specific quantity and value limits.
There are limitations on bringing some types of products into Germany. There may be import restrictions or an import ban on some animals and plants, products of animal origin or plant origin, textiles, medicines, narcotics and fireworks.
You should also be aware that you must inform customs officials if you are carrying €10,000 or more in cash or the equivalent in another currency.
You can find more detailed information on the customs site.
Since 1 April 2024, adults aged 18 and over have been allowed to carry up to 25 grams of cannabis in Germany without penalty. This also applies at airports. On domestic German flights, up to 25 grams are permitted in hand luggage or baggage. However, airlines may have their own regulations. Please enquire about the current status with your airline.
According to customs, the import, export and transit of cannabis is still prohibited and punishable by law. Entering other countries can result in severe prison sentences and/or fines.