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South Africans in Germany
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"Traveling to Germany is like stepping into a storybook, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes weave a tale you'll never forget."

If you’re planning a trip to Germany, we’ve got some travel tips that we think you’ll find incredibly helpful. 
If you’ve got your own tips to share, we’d love to hear them!  Simply submit them to us and we’ll be happy to include them on the page. 

Direct Fligts

The major airports in Germany are Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, Hamburg and Düsseldorf.
Direct flights from South Africa are available only to Frankfurt and seasonally to Munich.

01

Lufthansa

Lufthansa operates flights between Frankfurt, O.R. Tambo International, and Cape Town. The airline offers the chance to bid for upgrades, and, depending on flight availability, you can book a sleeper row at a significantly lower cost than Premium Economy or Business Class.
Seasonal flights are offered between Munich Airport and O.R. Tambo International, and Cape Town

02

Condor

Condor has reinstated flights between Frankfurt and Cape Town. They also offer two weekly flights between Frankfurt and O.R. Tambo International, but both routes are available only during their winter schedule. Stay updated on their winter and summer flight schedules.

Indirect Fligts

Indirect flights, also known as connecting flights, involve stopping at one or more intermediate airports before reaching your final destination.
They can be more affordable and flexible than direct flights but may increase travel time. When booking, check layover durations, luggage transfer policies, and visa requirements for layover countries to avoid complications.

01

Emirates

Emirates offer flights from O.R Tambo, Durban, and Cape Town to Dubai, and then from Dubai they offer flights to Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin, Hamburg, and Düsseldorf

02

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines offers flights from  O.R Tambo, Cape Town and Durban to Istanbul and from there they offer flights to Berlin, Bremen, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Friedrichshafen, Hamburg, Hannover, Karlsruhe, Cologne, Leipzig, Munich, Nuremberg and Stuttgart from Istanbul. 

03

Swiss Airlines

Swiss Airlines operates flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Zurich, offering connections to nearly every German airport. Important: At Zurich Airport, you will need to go through security and passport control before reaching your connecting flight gate. A transit time of less than 90 minutes is not recommended.

04

other options

Travel Advice and Bookings

  • Consider flying to a alternative airport. As an example, flights to Munich and Berlin can be much cheaper than to Frankfurt
  • Booking sites like Travelstart are very helpful and reliable, just always be aware of the fact that in the event of cancellations, and you booked through a travel agent, you will have to contact them and not the airline. This can have pro’s and con’s.
  • There are Travel agents listed on our website. These businesses are owned and run by South Africans living in Germany. Contact them to get expert advice and assistance with bookings.

Flying tips

Download an infographic and tips as a PDF file – Flying from South Africa

  • Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.  Think casual but smart
  • Bubble wrap your luggage if you feel the need to do that
  • Declare any electronics at customs, if you plan on travelling back to SA with them.  This is to avoid paying customs duties on the items when you return.
  • Your passport and visa/residence permit will be checked before the check-in gates. Know your final destination.
  • You have to go through security, to help in the process, take off your watch, and your belt, and remove anything from your person that can set off the metal detectors and place it in the bin provided. 
  • Don’t wait until just before landing to brush your teeth etc, everyone on the plane will have the same idea.

General Travel tips – Booking Flights

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine This page is dedicated to helping you make the best choices when it comes to planning your travels. We have information about  Airlines that fly between Germany and South Africa, airports in Germany and tips for searching for flights that fit your needs. We also cover essential topics such as packing your luggage and choosing travel insurance. If you’ve got

General Travel tips – Flying

General travel Tips – Flying When it comes to travelling, especially by air, taking precautions and planning ahead is key to ensuring a smooth journey. Here are some general travel tips that can come in handy during your next flight! We also have some advice on booking your flights, travel insurance and your time at the airport. If you’ve got your own tips to share, we’d love to hear them!  Simply submit them to us and we’ll

Going through Passport control

If you arrive from outside the EU, you will have to go through passport control in the first Schengen country you arrive in. You will need the following documentation and information.

  1. Your Passport with a Valid visa, or your German/Schengen Residence permit card
  2. If you are only visiting, they might ask you when you are planning on travelling back, and you must have your return ticket with you as they might ask for it. They can also ask you what you are planning on doing in Germany i.e Itinerary 
  3. If you are taking up residence in Germany, they might ask you for proof of accommodation
  4. They will ask you what is the purpose of your journey. Standard answers are tourism, visiting friends or family in Town xxx, joining a spouse, or taking up employment and residence in Germany.
  5. HINT If you have permanent residence in Germany, you can use the EU Passport queues at passport control in Germany. South Africa does not have a biometric passport, so unfortunately you cannot use the automated gates.

90/180 day rule

The 90/180 rule for a Schengen Type C visa (Typically Tourist or Family visits) means you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period. It’s not just three months straight—those 90 days are counted across all Schengen countries, and the 180-day clock keeps ticking as you move. So, each time you plan a trip, you must look back at the previous 180 days and ensure you haven’t spent more than 90 days total in the zone. Overstay even by a day, and you could face fines, bans, or worse—bureaucratic headaches no one wants.

EES EU Entry/Exit System

The European Union has announced plans to introduce a new Entry/Exit System (EES), due to start in 2025.

“The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be an automated IT system for registering travelers from third countries, both short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travelers, each time they cross an EU external border. The system will register the person’s name, type of travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit, in full respect of fundamental rights and data protection. It will also record refusals of entry.”

– European Commission

This system will not impact citizens of EU or Schengen countries, who can continue travelling freely within the area. However, it will apply to non-EU and non-Schengen travellers.

All EU member states will participate, except for Cyprus and Ireland.

Connecting Flights in Germany

When arriving in a Schengen Area Country, you must go through passport control in your country of first arrival. Therefore, if you land in Frankfurt and have an onward flight within the Schengen area or other airports in Germany, you will go through passport control in Frankfurt. The same goes for other airports like Munich or Berlin.
If you have a flight with the same carrier, your luggage will most likely be booked on your onward flight but please make sure about this.
Make sure you have enough time to go through passport control. Plan a minimum of an hour for this.
It can go much quicker but it all depends on how many staff is on duty and how many people are in front of you.

Customs

When arriving at a German airport, it’s important to know what items you can and cannot bring into the country. Germany has strict regulations on food, alcohol, tobacco, and other goods to ensure compliance with EU customs laws. Be prepared to declare items when necessary to avoid fines or confiscations.

What can I bring into Germany

What can I bring into Germany It is very tempting to bring some South African goodies with you when you travel to Germany, and while most items are allowed, there are Restrictions. There is also a limit on duty-free allowances. Zollamt Germany’s customs authority is known as the Zollamt, and they take their job seriously. The information below is especially relevant to travellers coming from South Africa (or any country outside the Schengen Area). If you’re

Getting to and from the Airport

  • You can use public transport to travel between the airports and major towns in Germany. For more information visit the  Deutsche Bahn website.  
  • Other options: Airport transfers – a quick search will return many options, Rental Car, Taxi, Car sharing service, pickup by family or friends.

Public transport in Germany

Public transport in Germany The German public transport system is extensive, reliable and very affordable. The Deutsche Bahn AG is the national railway company and is state-owned. The DB offers long distance, regional and local travel options.Here is a list of PDF Files with the route maps in German Long distance trains Long-distance trains offer fast and convenient connections between major cities. The following types of trains are available for long-distance travel: ICE – InterCity Express. These are high-speed

Luggage and Luggage Tracker Tags

When travelling within the EU, it’s important to be aware of luggage restrictions to avoid any surprises:

  • Weight Limit: A single checked bag in Economy Class must not exceed 23 kg. The limit for business class is 32 kg per bag.
  • Bag Allowance: The number of bags you are allowed to take depends on your airline, ticket class, and fare conditions.

Important Note on Electronics:
Laptops and other devices with lithium batteries are not permitted in checked luggage. Ensure they are placed in your hand luggage to comply with safety regulations.

Extra Tip for Travelers:
To keep track of your belongings, consider using luggage trackers. Various options are available, so choose one that suits your needs. ExportWorldTravel offers some practical advice to help you decide.

Drivers Licence

If you’re heading to Germany and plan to drive, consider applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP) through the AA (Automobile Association) in South Africa. The IDP is valid for short-term stays and is essential for translating your South African driver’s license for use in Germany.

Staying Longer Than Six Months?
For those planning to stay in Germany for over six months, you’ll need to convert your South African driver’s license to a German one. This process varies by region, so check with your local licensing authority in Germany for specific requirements.

Driving and Driver’s licences

Your Guide to Driving Legally in Germany Visiting Germany: If you’re visiting for a short period, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid South African driver’s licence. You can apply for the IDP at the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA). Staying Longer: For stays longer than six months, you can drive legally in Germany using your South African licence and your IDP for the first six months (185 days from the

Sim cards, mobile data and Wi-FI

Free Wi-Fi Options:

  • Most airports provide free Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected while in transit.
  • Look for accommodation that offers free Wi-Fi for convenience during your stay.
  • Many restaurants and cafes in Germany also provide free Wi-Fi for their patrons.

Using Your South African Number:
You can roam in Germany with your South African SIM, but be aware that roaming charges can add up quickly.
Before departing, confirm that your SIM card is activated for international roaming to avoid disruptions.

Affordable Alternatives:
Members of our Facebook group recommend Airalo, which offers eSIM data packs at local rates.
This can be a cost-effective option for staying connected. Ensure that your phone supports eSIM technology by checking their compatibility list here.

Plugs

Germany uses Type C and Type F power plugs, operating at a standard voltage of 230V with a frequency of 50Hz.

  • Type C: Known as the “Europlug,” these plugs have two round pins.
  • Type F: Also known as “Schuko,” these plugs have two round pins with two earth clips on the side.

If your devices use a different plug type, you’ll need an adapter. For detailed information about power plugs and sockets worldwide, visit this website.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for Short Term Visas.
Also consider taking out travel insurance for long-term trips, to at least cover your first 3 months. 
TIC in South Africa is accepted by the German Embassy. See our visa application tips for more options.

Visa application tips

Schengen Visa application tips We are not immigration agents, and your first point of contact should always be the German embassy or consulate in South Africa.Most of the information you need to apply for your visa at the Germany Embassy in South Africa can be found on their websiteHere is some additional information that could help when something is not clear.  For individual queries, you can send an email to visacapetown@kaps.diplo.de or use their online form  Friends

Medical

Medical insurance is usually included in Travel insurance, please make sure that is included in yours.
When coming on a long-term Visa, make sure you are covered during your transition period.

Medical

Health Insurance in Germany: A Guide for South Africans In Germany, health insurance (Krankenversicherung) isn’t a choice — it’s a legal requirement for every resident, and a prerequisite for obtaining your Aufenthaltstitel (residence permit).Before you can truly settle in, this is one of the very first boxes you’ll need to

Children

Besides the documentation required by the airline, there are also rules for travelling with children to and from South Africa, accompanied and unaccompanied. These can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Tip – they do require a copy of a birth certificate / equivalent document or passport containing the details of the parent or parents of the child
Here is a link to the  Suggested Parental consent letter from the Department of Home Affairs. It does not need to be notarized.
Additional information can also be found on the South African Embassy Website. scroll down to the “Helpful Links” section.

For documentation required when travelling to and from Germany, please check the Bund.de website, or contact the relevant authorities. Also, see the travel during a school term section below. 

Travelling to or within the EU

In addition to their own valid passport or ID card, all children travelling alone; or with adults who are not their legal guardians; or with only one parent, may need an extra (official) document signed by their parents, second parent or legal guardian(s) authorising them to travel.

There are no EU rules on this matter, each EU country decides if it requires the child to have an official authorisation from their parent(s) or guardian. Check the exact rules for the countries you are travelling to and from.

Germany

Travel during a school Term

Travel during a School Term The school rules in Germany are very strict and every student is obliged to attend classes and other school events. You therefore cannot take your child out of school before the term ends. They must attend school for the whole term, with only certain exemptions like ill-health, participation in sports competitions, or an important personal reason like the marriage of siblings, death in the family or serious illness in the

Flying with Children

Flying with Children Travelling with small kids can be an amazing experience, but also quite a task, especially when it involves long flights. One of the key aspects to consider while planning such trips is the sleep schedule of your children. A poorly planned flight routine can lead to a lot of stress, not just for the little ones, but also for the parents. With some thoughtful planning, you are sure to have a fantastic

Gift ideas

  • Good South African wine that is not available in Germany
  • Mampoer or something similar and unique
  • Sally Williams Nougat
  • Handmade beadwork like baskets, beaded cutlery, etc.
  • Carrol Boyes kitchenware
  • Hand-painted tablecloths or placemats
  • Beaded nets to use over a bowl to keep insects out
  • South African Art
  •  Beaded earrings or jewellery
  • Springbok caps or jerseys
  • South African themed table cloth weights
  • Decorated candles
  • Animals or figures made from wood or wire
  • Carved wooden bowls
  • Carved candle holders

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