Schengen Visa-Free Short Stay (Annex II Countries)
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Processing time
- Immediate
- Validity
- 90 days in 180-day period
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Citizens of over 60 Annex II countries can travel to Germany and the Schengen Area without a visa for short stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Starting in 2025-2026, visa-free travelers must register through ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering. This list includes major countries like USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, UK, etc.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Citizens of Annex II countries as defined by EU Regulation 2018/1806 are exempt from visa requirements for short stays.
Eligible countries: Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Holy See, Honduras, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Korea (Republic of), Macao, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Panama, Peru, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Taiwan, Province of China, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
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Purpose of visit
Eligible for tourism, business meetings, family visits, short-term study, or other short-stay purposes.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Cash, credit cards, bank statements; Minimum amount: Sufficient funds for stay
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Travel insurance
Coverage area: All Schengen countries; Minimum coverage: €30,000
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Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.
Accepted types: Hotel booking, invitation letter, rental agreement; Must cover full stay: Yes
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Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
How to apply
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Document gathering
Prepare passport valid for at least 3 months beyond departure, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and return flight reservation.
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Online application
Register for ETIAS authorization online (required from 2025-2026 onwards).
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Document submission
Present documents at German border control upon arrival.