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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. 

Topics

New SARS Traveller declaration

Travellers entering or leaving South Africa should be aware of the new SARS Traveller Declaration Form. From 1 July 2026, most travellers are required to complete a Customs declaration within 24 hours before their journey. The declaration is used to disclose goods, currency and other items that must be declared to Customs, helping to simplify border procedures, improve compliance and reduce delays at ports of entry.

Travellers can complete their declaration online using the SARS Traveller Management System, the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) App, or the SARS MobiApp, available for Android, Huawei and Apple devices.  The form can also be completed manually.
Once submitted, travellers should keep their confirmation email or QR code available for inspection if requested by Customs.

Full guidance, including step-by-step instructions, frequently asked questions and the latest updates, is available on the SARS Traveller Information page.

You can also watch a helpful video from SARS explaining how the system works.

For Information on Departure from South Africa, see this page from SARS

💡 Good to know: Completing the Traveller Declaration is mandatory for most travellers, even if you have nothing to declare. Simply select “I have no goods and/or currency to declare (NIL)” and continue with your declaration.

Examples of items you may need to declare include: large amounts of cash, expensive purchases that exceed your duty-free allowance, commercial goods, firearms or other restricted items, certain food, plants or animal products, and valuable equipment being taken out of or brought back into South Africa (such as cameras, drones or professional equipment). For most travellers, ordinary personal belongings don’t need to be declared

Booking Flights

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.

Looking for the best way to book your flight to Germany? Our dedicated Booking Flights guide includes everything you need to know before you book, including airlines flying between Germany and South Africa, popular stopover routes, flight search websites, and practical tips to help you compare prices, understand baggage rules and avoid unnecessary costs. It’s a great place to start planning your journey.

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 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.  Major German International Airports There are over 30 airports in Germany. The biggest airport in Germany is Frankfurt International Airport. Other major airports are  Munich (MUC), Berlin (BER), Hamburg (HAM), Stuttgart (STR), and Düsseldorf(DUS).Most major airlines fly to these airports.Discount airlines like Ryanair, Eurowings, EasyJet, TUIfly, and Condor usually make use of smaller airports, as the airport taxes are much lower.  They do, however, also fly from major airports.A complete list of airports in Germany can be found on the official German airport association website –  Arbeitsgemeinschaft Deutscher Verkehrsflughäfen (ADV), or the Airportcodes website. Saving on flights When booking flights, a bit of flexibility can save you a lot: Check alternative airports. For instance, flights to Munich or Berlin are often much cheaper than flying into Frankfurt. Be flexible with your travel dates. Shifting your trip by a day or two can make a surprising difference in price. The Cheapest Months (Historically) to fly are May–June (before European summer), late January–March (after Christmas rush). Avoid mid-December to early January Compare prices across search engines. Each site may show slightly different deals or promotions. Book early. The closer you get to your travel date, the higher the fares usually climb. Travel midweek if possible. Weekdays are generally cheaper than weekends, and avoiding peak seasons like Christmas and Easter can help keep costs down. Watch out for local events. Flights to Munich in September and October skyrocket due to Oktoberfest.   Booking Flights  You can search and book flights via Flight search engines. The most popular search websites are: Google flights – very good for comparing prices and dates Travelstart (Also use the SA site) is good for comparing prices and dates. Momondo, Fluege.de, Swoodoo, Flyscanner, Cheapflights, Check24 When using a search site to book your flights, always make sure you know what you pay for, what is included, and what is charged for extra, such as luggage. Also, make sure you know your rights and the conditions of your purchase. For example, can you change your booking, and what happens if the flight is cancelled? When booking through a booking site or agent, you will have to contact them and not the airline when there are issues with your flight, for example, cancellations. 🌍 Airlines Flying Between Germany & South Africa Direct Options 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 Lufthansa 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. Condor Popular Stop over Airlines Emirates via Dubai Turkish Arilnes via Istanbul Qatar Airways via Doha British Airways via London Swiss Airlines via Zurich KLM via Amsterdam Brussels Airlines Ethopian Air Etihad Airways Air Algerie via Algiers Air France via Paris Egypt Air via Cairo Discover Airlines provides flights to Windhoek Regional Flights Regional flightsThe following Airlines offer regional flights to and from Germany: Ryanair, Eurowings, EasyJet, TUIfly, Condor, Air Malta, Helvetic Air, Lufthansa city line,  SunExpress, Swiss Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Austrian Airlines, KLM City hopper, Air Europa   When booking directly with an airline, use the correct airport codes. Florence in Italy has the airport code FLR, but Florence in the USA has the airport code FLO. You can search for airport codes on the IATA website  Download the airline app to get up-to-date flight information. Join their frequent flyer program to get extra benefits when you fly with them often. Some airlines allow you to bid for upgrades. Lufthansa offers the opportunity to bid for upgrades, and depending on how full the flight is, you can book a sleeper row, which costs much less than Premium Economy or Business class What is your favourite airline for flights between SA and DE For more information about travelling between South Africa and Germany, see the following pages.  Wheelchair assistance When you book wheelchair assistance, you will be asked whether the person can walk on their own but only needs assistance at the airport or whether they need assistance with getting to and from their seat.The service is organised by the airline, but performed by the relevant airport staff, and the level of service might not be the same.If the assisted person is travelling alone, the staff will take them through security and passport control and assist them with boarding the plane. Assistance with deboarding is usually provided when the person is not mobile at all. Please ensure that assistance with using the toilets is included if needed.If the assisted person is travelling with someone, these persons will usually accompany the assisted person through security and passport control as well as boarding, although this is not always the case, especially if it is in a group. Discuss how this will be handled beforehand.  From personal experience, this was not allowed at Stuttgart Airport, but allowed at Istanbul Airport. It could be that we chose the wrong day 🙂 Travel Insurance It’s always important to prioritise your safety when going on a trip, and one of the best ways to do that is by making sure to have travel insurance. Even if you’re only going to travel within the EU, you can never be too safe, as accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. With travel insurance, you’ll have the peace of mind

Travel Advice and assistance with 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.

The New EES Entry System

The New EES Entry System – What you Need to Know Travelling to Europe is about to change. The EU is rolling out a new Entry/Exit System (EES) to replace the old passport stamping method for short stays in the Schengen Area. If you’re South African (or any other non-EU national) planning a visit, this is something you’ll want to be ready for. What Is the EES? The EES is an automated digital system that records when and where non-EU travellers enter and exit the Schengen Area. Instead of getting your passport physically stamped, your details will now be logged electronically. The system is designed to: Track compliance with the 90/180-day Schengen stay rule. Record biometric data (fingerprints and facial image) and travel information. Help border authorities identify overstayers more quickly.   🛂 Non-EU national – For the purpose of the EES, this means a traveller not holding the nationality of any European Union country or the nationality of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland. 📅 Short stay – Means up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This period is calculated as a single period for all the European countries using the EES. Who does it apply to? The system applies to all non-EU nationals visiting the Schengen Area for a short stay (up to 90 days within 180 days).That includes travellers from South Africa, the UK, the  US, Canada, Australia, and more. If you hold a residence permit in Germany or another Schengen country, this system won’t affect your normal border crossings in the same way – but keep in mind, it still applies when travelling as a visitor within Schengen. The EES Does not apply to: Nationals of the European countries using the EES, as well as Cyprus and Ireland Non-EU nationals who hold a residence card and are immediately related to an EU national  Non-EU nationals who hold a residence card or a residence permit and are immediately related to a non-EU national who can travel throughout Europe like an EU citizen Non-EU nationals travelling to Europe as part of an intra-corporate transfer or for research, studies, training, voluntary service, pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au-pairing Holders of residence permits and long-stay visas Nationals of Andorra, Monaco and San Marino and holders of a passport issued by the Vatican City State or the Holy See People exempt from border checks or who have been granted certain privileges with respect to border checks (such as heads of state, cross-border workers, etc.);  People not required to cross external borders solely at border crossing points and during fixed opening hours People holding a valid local border traffic permit  Crew members of passenger and goods trains on international connecting journeys People holding a valid Facilitated Rail Transit Document or a valid Facilitated Transit Document, provided they travel by train and do not disembark anywhere within the territory of an EU Member State Source: Travel-Europe.europa.eu (Offiial website of the European Union) When does it start? Progressive rollout: from 12 October 2025 Full implementation: by 10 April 2026 How will it work? If this is your first entry since EES began: You’ll provide your personal data to passport control officers. They will scan your fingerprints or take a photo of your face, and this will be stored in your digital file. The process can be quicker if you register some of your data in advance, either by: Using the dedicated self-service system (if available at your border crossing point). Using a mobile app, if provided by the country you are arriving in or departing from. The Travel to Europe mobile application, developed by Frontex, enables non-EU travellers to pre-register their travel document data and facial image for the Entry/Exit System (EES) before arriving at a border crossing point. If you’ve already crossed an EES border before: Your fingerprints and/or facial photo will already be stored. Officers will simply verify your biometric data, which is quicker. In rare cases, you may be asked to provide your data again. If you hold a biometric passport, you’ll usually be able to enter faster by using the self-service system (if available). South African passports are machine readable but not biometric In both scenarios, you will still meet with an officer at the passport control counter.  Instead of getting an ink stamp in your passport, your details will now be recorded digitally.Authorities will then use this system to monitor the length of your stay and quickly identify overstayers. See the EU Website for more information Key things to remember Digital Registration No more passport stamps! Instead, the EES will automatically record your entry and exit, ensuring a more efficient and secure process. Biometric Data You will need to provide fingerprints and a facial image when crossing the Schengen borders. This biometric data ensures accurate identification. Tracking Overstays The EES will monitor the duration of your stay in the Schengen Area, automatically calculating if you’ve overstayed your permitted time. The system enforces the 90/180-day rule. Faster Border Crossings The new system aims to speed up the border control process, making your travel experience smoother. ✈️ EasyPASS and Biometric Passports If you hold a biometric passport, you may be able to use automated e-gates (EasyPASS) at certain airports. This will also depend on your nationality. These gates use facial recognition to match you with the digital data stored in your passport’s chip, allowing for a quicker and mostly contactless border crossing. Although you can register for EasyPASS when you have permanent residence in Germany, the South African passport does not qualify, as it is not biometric Info on the web European Commission Entry / Exit System Legal Basis – Eur-Lex Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email

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. New SARS Traveller declaration Travellers entering or leaving South Africa should be aware of the new SARS Traveller Declaration Form. From 1 July 2026, most travellers are required to complete a Customs declaration within 24 hours

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 Driving in Germany comes with freedom — and a fair bit of paperwork.In most cases, South Africans don’t need to redo their driving tests — just follow the conversion process. That said, requirements can vary depending on your region. You may need a first aid course, a German translation of your licence, or additional confirmation from South Africa. It’s always best to check with your local office before

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

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

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

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

Related content

Travel in the Schengen Area

Travel within the Schengen Area “The Schengen Area is a zone comprised of 29 European states which have officially abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders. Countries in the Schengen area can temporarily reinstate border controls at internal borders — for security reasons, to manage migration pressure, during major events, or in other emergencies. That’s fully legal and happens sometimes.For visitors, it effectively means that the Schengen Area acts as a singular country, i.e.

South African Passport Holders: Travel with Schengen Visa & Beyond

Travel with a South African Passport and German Residence Permit Living in Germany doesn’t automatically give you the same travel rights as an EU citizen. However, a valid German residence permit can make travelling much easier. This guide explains where South African passport holders can travel using their German residence permit, where a visa is still required, and where special visa exemptions or visa-on-arrival arrangements apply. In most cases, your South African passport determines whether

Tourist accommodation types

Types of Tourist accommodation in Germany Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular hotel types you can find in Germany, each offering a unique experience. It is important to note that these descriptions are not protected by law, and you can call your hotel a park hotel even if

Useful apps

Useful apps Having the correct information available when you need it is priceless.  Here are some apps that can make your life easier in Germany. Note that for most, we did not add links to the apps, as it is a lot of work to maintain for all operating systems. Use the search function to search the apps Integration Integreat App A multilingual digital guide that brings together essential local information for living in Germany

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