Germany


 

Immigration Information

Since the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, security and immigration regulations have been subject to constant change – especially in the USA. Tightened baggage restrictions, altered visa requirements, electronic registration and data reconciliation procedures, and current health precautions must all be kept in mind when planning travel.

Here you’ll find notices of current security and immigration provisions that might be relevant for your next trip.

 

Country-specific immigration advice::

Country-specific immigration advice: VisumCentrale

 

Air travel security guidelines from the German Federal Police

In addition to security guidelines, this info sheet compiled by the German Federal Police also contains a list of dangerous objects that are not permitted to be taken aboard aircraft.

"Check in and take off - Sicherheitshinweise für Flugreisende" (available in German only)

 

Data security on the go – tips for business travelers

Business travelers often carry confidential data with them, so they need to take the subject of data security en route very seriously. Security checks, flight delays or cancellations, or physical separation from carry-on bags can soon turn into a security breach. Therefore, be sure to take the proper precautions when traveling to prevent confidential information from ending up in the wrong hands.

  • Know the confidentiality level of the data on your laptop or other mobile devices (PDA, mobile phone etc.).
  • Transmit confidential and private data by fax, email or post instead of carrying it with you on your trip in your hand baggage – it’s less risky.
  • Do not take any credit cards or documents with you in your hand baggage. Always carry and store personal documents or portable media separately from your laptop.
  • Before leaving the country, register your valuables with the airport customs office.
  • Every country has a specific risk level, which can change at any time. You can find out the risk level of your destination country and its current regulations on the website of the respective foreign office or from the relevant travel information services.
  • Make copies of important documents (passport, airplane tickets, credit cards etc.). In the event they are lost, this will make it easier to notify the issuers and obtain replacements.
  • Charge your laptop’s battery or keep the power supply unit handy. Security personnel may ask you to switch the device on so it can be checked. If you are unable to switch on your laptop, you may not be able to take it with you on the plane.
  • To speed up the security procedure, use a special laptop bag that lets the contents be x-rayed without the laptop having to be removed from the bag.
  • Label your laptop with your contact data and the serial number.
  • Do not leave important belongings (laptop, portable media, confidential documents or similar) unattended. If necessary, lock any important items in a locker at the airport, in the trunk of your car or in a hotel safe. Use lockable hardside suitcases and TSA locks.
  • Do not work with confidential or secret data in public, including on the plane, and do not talk about confidential matters.
  • When working with your laptop, make sure others can’t see the screen. Ideal here is a privacy filter that ensures data can only be seen when sitting directly in front of the monitor.
  • Find out if your employer regularly observes the duty to provide security training for employees.
  • If you notice any suspicious activities or security-relevant incidents during your trip, inform your employer’s security office or the authorities in charge.

Sources: Business Travel Executive, United States Department of Agriculture, tsa.gov