Germany Visa RequirementsFor New Zealand passport holders
New Zealand citizens can visit Germany visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period under the Schengen Agreement. Germany is one of Europe's largest economies and a popular destination for NZ travellers and working holiday makers.
Great news! New Zealand passport holders can enter Germany without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa is required for NZ citizens for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The 90-day limit is shared across all Schengen countries: time spent in France, Spain, Italy, and all other Schengen members counts toward the same allowance. NZ passport holders use eGates at Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin airports. The working holiday visa (Arbeitsvisum) requires a separate application via the German embassy in Wellington if you plan to work. For tourist visits under 90 days, no application is needed. ETIAS registration may be required in the future when the system launches.
Germany is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid New Zealand Passport
Must be valid for the duration of your stay and at least 3 months beyond intended departure from the Schengen Area.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from Germany, such as a return flight booking or onward travel itinerary.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or address where you will be staying in Germany.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Credit cards, bank statements, or cash to cover your expenses during your stay in Germany.
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended for Schengen travel. Some countries may require it. Should cover medical emergencies and repatriation.
Current Travel Situation
New Zealand to Germany: What You Need to Know
Germany is the largest economy in Europe and a major destination for New Zealand travellers, students, and working holiday makers. The NZ-Germany working holiday scheme allows NZ citizens aged 18-30 to work in Germany for up to 12 months. Frankfurt is Europe's most important air hub, making it a common transit point for NZ travellers continuing into Europe. Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and the Rhine Valley are top visitor destinations. Germany has a substantial NZ expat community, particularly in Berlin where living costs are lower than many Western European capitals.
How to Get There
Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin all have direct or one-stop connections from Auckland. Air New Zealand partners with Lufthansa and other Star Alliance carriers for Germany connections. The ICE high-speed rail connects Frankfurt-Munich (3.5h), Frankfurt-Berlin (4h), and Hamburg-Berlin (1.5h). For side trips, Cologne and the Rhine Valley are easy day trips from Frankfurt, and Salzburg (Austria) is 1.5 hours from Munich by train.
Money & Banking
Germany uses the Euro (EUR). Currently around 1.80-1.90 NZD per EUR. Germany is moderately priced by Western European standards. Berlin is cheapest; Munich and Frankfurt are more expensive. German culture values cash more than most of Europe: carry Euros as some restaurants, markets, and small shops do not accept cards. ATMs (Geldautomaten) are widely available. Supermarkets (Aldi, Lidl, Rewe) are extremely affordable for self-catering.
Practical Tips
Germany is centrally located in Europe, making it ideal as a base for exploring neighboring countries. Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is often the cheapest entry point to Europe from NZ. Berlin's cost of living is among the lowest in Western Europe. Germany has exceptional public transport: the Deutsche Bahn rail network connects all major cities, and regional day tickets offer excellent value. The Autobahn highway system has no speed limits on many sections, making road trips exciting. German winters are cold (November-February); summer festival season (June-August) is ideal but busy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do NZ citizens need a visa for Germany?
No. NZ citizens can visit Germany visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period as part of the Schengen Agreement. No advance application is needed.
Is there a German working holiday visa for NZ citizens?
Yes. Germany and New Zealand have a working holiday visa agreement. NZ citizens aged 18-35 can apply for a German Working Holiday Visa (Arbeitsurlaubsvisum) at the German Embassy or Consulate. It allows a 12-month stay with work rights. Apply before leaving NZ.
What is the best way to travel within Germany?
Germany's intercity express rail (ICE) network is efficient but expensive unless booked far in advance. The Deutschlandticket (EUR 49/month) covers all regional trains, buses, and local transport. Long-distance buses (FlixBus) are cheap. Driving on the Autobahn (with no speed limits on many sections) is a unique experience.
When is the best time to visit Germany?
Summer (June-August) for outdoor festivals, beer gardens, and city sightseeing. Oktoberfest in Munich (mid-September to early October) is world-famous but very busy and expensive. Christmas markets (late November-December) are magical throughout Germany. Winter sports in Bavaria are excellent January-March.
Does Germany accept card payments everywhere?
Germany is more cash-reliant than other EU countries. Many smaller restaurants, bakeries, markets, and local shops prefer or only accept cash (in German: 'Nur Barzahlung'). Major supermarkets, department stores, and tourist venues accept cards. Carry EUR 50-100 in cash at all times.
What is the Schengen 90-day rule for NZ travellers in Germany?
NZ citizens can spend a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day rolling period in the entire Schengen Area. Days in Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and any other Schengen country all count toward the same 90-day limit. The 180-day period is rolling (not a fixed calendar period).
What are the must-see destinations in Germany for NZ visitors?
Berlin (history, culture, nightlife), Munich and Bavaria (Oktoberfest, Neuschwanstein Castle, Alps), Hamburg (maritime heritage, Reeperbahn), the Rhine Valley (castles, vineyards), Heidelberg (university town, castle), the Black Forest, Cologne Cathedral, and Dresden's baroque old town.
What is the Bavarian Alps region and the Neuschwanstein Castle?
Neuschwanstein Castle (near Fussen, 2.5h by train from Munich) is the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle. It was built by Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century. Tickets must be booked online in advance at hohenschwangau.de. The Bavarian Alps (Zugspitze - Germany's highest peak at 2962m, Berchtesgaden National Park, Konigsee lake) are scenic and accessible from Munich.