Key Takeaways:
- Germany extends temporary border controls at all land borders until at least September 2026.
- The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) continues rolling out at airports ahead of full implementation in April.
- Travel to the UK now requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for most travelers, including EU citizens.
- Ukrainian refugees' temporary protection in Germany is extended until March 2027.
Border Controls Extended, Not Ending
Germany's temporary border controls are not ending as previously anticipated. The federal government has decided to extend spot checks at all land borders—including with Austria, Poland, France, and the Netherlands—for another six months. These controls will now continue until at least September 2026.
While not full border controls, these checks can still cause delays, especially for those crossing by car, bus, or train. Travelers are advised to:
- Carry a valid ID or residence document when near borders.
- Factor in potential extra time for their journeys.
This extension reflects ongoing concerns about irregular migration and security within the Schengen Area, where internal border controls are meant to be the exception, not the rule.
The EES Rollout Continues
The EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is being rolled out at more and more German airports ahead of its full implementation in April. This automated system is designed to replace manual passport stamps for non-EU travelers entering the Schengen Area for short stays.
Here’s what travelers need to know:
- Who it affects: Non-EU nationals traveling to the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period).
- What it involves: First-time users will need to register fingerprints and a facial scan at automated kiosks.
- Who is exempt: EU citizens and residents of Germany are not subject to EES checks.
The system aims to strengthen external border security but is expected to cause longer processing times initially, particularly at major hubs.
New UK Travel Rules: The ETA
By early March, travel to the United Kingdom requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for most travelers. This includes citizens of the European Union and other visa-exempt nationalities.
Key points:
- The ETA is an online pre-travel authorization, not a visa.
- Airlines and border staff are enforcing this requirement strictly.
- Travelers must apply online before their trip; it is linked to the passport used for application.
This change marks a significant shift in travel between the EU and the UK, adding a new administrative step for what was once completely frictionless movement.
Protection Extended for Ukrainian Refugees
In a significant development for displaced persons, Germany has extended temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2027. This provides much-needed stability for those rebuilding their lives.
- Residence permits marked "§24 AufenthG" that were due to expire in March 2026 are automatically extended.
- Authorities recommend carrying proof of the extension regulation when dealing with employers or officials to avoid confusion.
- The move also aims to reduce administrative pressure on Germany's immigration authorities.
Other Notable Changes for Residents
While the travel and border updates are most relevant for cross-border movement, March brings other changes affecting daily life in Germany.
Clocks Spring Forward
On March 29, daylight saving time begins. Clocks move forward from 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM, meaning lighter evenings but one less hour of sleep. Remember to adjust alarms and schedules, especially for international calls.
Local Elections and Voting Rights
Several German states hold elections in March. Notably, in Bavarian municipal elections, EU citizens (aged 16+) who have lived in the municipality for at least 16 days can vote. This is a key aspect of EU freedom of movement, granting political participation rights.
Consumer and Digital Updates
- Schufa Transparency: Germany's main credit bureau, Schufa, is making scores more transparent. Consumers can soon view their score online for free, which is crucial for renting apartments or obtaining loans.
- Discord Age Verification: The online platform Discord begins a phased rollout of mandatory age verification via ID or facial scan.
- Greenwashing Rules: New EU rules crack down on vague environmental claims like "climate-neutral," aiming for clearer sustainability labels.
Traveler's Note: The combination of extended German border controls, the new EES system, and the UK's ETA creates a more complex landscape for cross-border travel in Europe. Planning ahead and carrying correct documentation is more important than ever.