Germany
Germany travel guide for New Zealanders
New Zealanders do not need a visa for Germany for stays up to 90 days in any 180‑day period. From 2026 an ETIAS travel authorisation is required, so check the current launch status before you travel. Plan for a long‑haul flight and budget according to your own preferences.
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GuideGermany
Key facts
- Visa required
- No, for stays up to 90 days in 180 days
- ETIAScheck
- Required from 2026; apply online before travel
- Max stay
- 90 days in any 180-day period
- Currency
- Euro (EUR, €)
- Plugs
- Types C and F, 230 V 50 Hz
- Tipping
- Round up or add 5–10%, said to the server
- Emergency numbers
- 112 fire/ambulance · 110 police
Quick answer
New Zealanders do not need a visa for Germany for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days in any 180‑day period. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.
From 2026 you will also need an ETIAS travel authorisation, which you apply for online before you fly. It is not a visa; it is a pre‑screening that costs about €7 and is valid for three years or until your passport expires. Check the current launch status before you travel.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders
New Zealand is on the Schengen visa‑waiver list, so you can enter Germany and other Schengen states without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180‑day period).
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa | Not required for stays up to 90 days in 180 days |
| ETIAS | Required from 2026; apply online before travel (check launch status) |
Confirm the latest entry rules on the German embassy website or the official Schengen portal.
New Zealand Embassy in Germany
The New Zealand Embassy in Berlin provides consular assistance for New Zealanders in Germany. For up‑to‑date contact details and service hours, see the official embassy page.
- New Zealand Embassy, Berlin – consular services
- German Embassy in Wellington – visa and entry queries before travel
Cost of a trip in NZD
Travel costs vary widely. Use the official travel‑cost calculator or recent budget guides for up‑to‑date NZD estimates for flights, accommodation, meals and transport.
| Item | Cost (NZD, 2026 estimate) |
|---|---|
| Return flight from NZ | check |
| Hostel per night | check |
| Mid‑range hotel per night | check |
| Meal at casual restaurant | check |
| Beer (0.5 L) | check |
| City public transport ticket | check |
| Museum entry | check |
All figures are approximate; verify with current price sources.
Flights from New Zealand
There are no direct flights to Germany. Typical routes connect via Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai or Doha, with total travel time around 24–30 hours depending on layovers. Check airline schedules for exact routing and transfer costs.
Electricity and plugs
Germany uses Type C and Type F plugs, 230 V, 50 Hz. New Zealand uses Type I, so bring a suitable adapter. Most modern electronics are dual‑voltage; verify before plugging in.
Tipping in Germany
Round up the bill or add 5–10 % for good service and hand the tip to the server when you pay. In taxis, round up to the nearest euro; hotel staff appreciate €1–2 per bag.
Safety and emergency contacts
Germany is a safe destination, but petty crime can occur in crowded tourist areas. In an emergency call 112 (fire/ambulance) or 110 (police). For the latest travel‑safety advice for New Zealanders, consult SafeTravel NZ.
FAQ
Sources
Questions people ask
Do New Zealanders need a visa for Germany?
No. New Zealanders can stay in Germany and the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. From 2026, you must have an ETIAS travel authorisation before you fly.
How much does a trip to Germany cost in NZD?
A week typically costs NZ$3,500–5,000 per person, including flights, accommodation, food and transport. Flights are the biggest expense at NZ$1,500–2,500 return. Budget for NZ$80–150 per night for a hostel and NZ$20–35 for a casual meal.
Where is the nearest New Zealand embassy in Germany?
The New Zealand Embassy is in Berlin, in the Mitte district. It offers consular services for New Zealanders, including help with lost passports and emergencies. For visa questions, contact the German embassy in Wellington before you travel.
What is ETIAS and when do I need it?
ETIAS is a travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to Europe. It is required from 2026 and costs about €7. Apply online before you fly; it is valid for three years or until your passport expires.
Do I need travel insurance for Germany?
Yes, strongly recommended. New Zealanders are not covered by the German public health system, and medical costs can be high. Travel insurance with medical cover protects you against unexpected expenses.
What is the time difference between New Zealand and Germany?
Germany is 11–12 hours behind New Zealand, depending on daylight saving. When it is noon in Berlin, it is 11pm or midnight in Auckland. Plan for jet lag after the long flight.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialSafeTravel (NZ Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- officialGerman Federal Foreign Office
- secondarySchengen visa information
Ask about Germany
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