Germany: Authorities ease COVID-19-related measures as of March 3 /update 75

Event

Authorities have eased measures imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19. As of March 3, all countries are removed from the high-risk category, easing entry requirements for many travelers. From March 4, the COVID-pass requirement will be eased for certain establishments; individuals will be able to enter catering establishments with a certificate of vaccination, recovery, or a recent negative test.

Domestic Measures
Evidence of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 is required to access many nonessential services; some facilities require a booster vaccine or recent negative test in addition to a vaccination or recovery certificate. Public gatherings are restricted for unvaccinated persons and facemasks with a filtering facepiece protection class of at least 2 (FFP2) are required for shops and essential services.

Restrictions vary somewhat by state; areas with higher infection rates may impose tighter rules. For details on specific measures in effect in each state, click here.

International Travel Restrictions
All travelers over the age of six arriving in Germany via air or land must provide proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, or a negative result from a PCR or rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before departure; this requirement does not apply to cross-border commuters or travelers transiting Germany.

Germany prohibits entry by unvaccinated individuals from outside the EEA, except for those from Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macao, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan. Fully vaccinated travelers from other countries can enter Germany for nonessential purposes, provided at least 14 days have passed since receiving a full dosage of an approved vaccine. Only travelers inoculated with vaccines approved by German authorities are allowed entry; for a full list of approved vaccines, click here.

As of March 3, no countries are classified as high-risk or virus variant areas.

Different restrictions are in place for individuals in transit, transport workers, and cross-border commuters. A full list of locations designated as high-risk or virus-variant areas can be accessed by clicking here.

For detailed international travel restrictions click here.

Authorities could ease, tighten, or otherwise amend restrictions with little-to-no notice based on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

Government of Germany
COVID-19 Self-isolation and Testing Requirements
Map of Infection Rates per County
Regional Restrictions in Germany (in German)