Germany

Emergency phone numbers

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). 

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 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.  

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 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 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.

Domestic violence

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. 

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 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.   

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, 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 or a consulate in the U.S. for customs requirements.

Faith-based travelers       

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – review country reports
• Human Rights Report – review country reports

Volunteering abroad

• Tips for Volunteering Abroad

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

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.

Students

• Tips for Students Abroad
• FBI travel tips for U.S. Students

Women travelers 

• Tips for Women Travelers

Health Resources

• CDC's Germany Traveler Information
• CDC's Health Traveler Information
• CDC's Medical Tourism information
• NASA's International Air Quality Index
• Travel Insurance
• WHO's Germany Health Information

Emergency phone numbers

• 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.

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.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our Medicine and Health page for more information. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information: 

• World Health Organization Travel advice page
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page

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. 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. 

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 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.

Assisted reproductive technology and surrogacy (ART)

• 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).

Adventure travel

• Tips for Adventure Travel  

Helpful resources

• Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad 
• Driving in Germany
• Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMVI)
• Dial 112 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 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 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 
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts  
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  

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. 

Living abroad resouces

If you live abroad for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events.

• Learn how to prepare for life events like voting, getting married, or the birth of a child.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare or insurance abroad. 
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.