The Foreign Office has issued a new warning for holidaymakers from the UK. The update, released on June 4, saw officials advise travellers to Germany to exercise increased caution. The latest guidance by the Foreign Office warns that anyone travelling through airports there could face serious consequences if they break local laws.
The update warns: “Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.” They add: “Airports in Germany have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.”
You should also be aware that Germany follows Schengen area rules. Make sure your passport and other travel documents comply with the required standards by consulting your travel provider. Renew your passport in advance if necessary. Your passport must:
- have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
- have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area (the expiry date does not need to be within 10 years of the date of issue)
Travellers may be denied entry if their travel documents are invalid or if they present a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. If you hold a residence permit, ensure that your passport remains valid throughout your stay – renew it before it expires to avoid complications. Additionally, travellers bringing more than €10,000 in cash or equivalent forms of payment must declare the amount upon entry. Be aware that there are also specific restrictions on bringing food into Germany, so check the latest regulations before travelling.
The Foreign Office further warns: “You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.”