Germany - entry requirements for international trade fair participants

The importance of international trade fairs hosted in Germany are of paramount importance for the country's economy. As a matter of fact, the economic boost of the industry is vital, which is the reason why smooth international travel and clear entry guidelines are essential.

According to AUMA, 60 % of the 180 000 exhibitors each year come from abroad with a third of them travelling from outside Europe. 30 % of the 10 million visitors are international travellers as well. The magnitude of the numbers explains AUMA's efforts towards open borders. But first things first.

The German government has divided the countries into three different categories, namely no risk areas, high risk areas and areas of variants of concern. It is possible for all trade fair participants to enter Germany, however those coming from areas of variants of concern (currently Brazil and Uruguay) would need to undergo a 14-day quarantine, which basically means that trade fairs are a no-go for them at this point.

Business travel visas are required for citizens of countries who travel to Germany to either exhibit or visit a trade fair. The good news is that employees of exhibiting companies are exempt from the visa fee. In case the the trade fair goers have spend time in the last 10 days in areas of high risk or areas of variants of concern, then a digital registration onn entry is to be filled-out. The application can be made online at https://www.einreiseanmeldung.de .

As in most of Europe, the travellers who enter Germany need to provide a proof of a negative test, vaccination or recovery. Those who enter by air should provide proof under departure, which is to be checked by the corresponding airline. The test should be taken no more than 48 hours prior to arrival in Germany.

When it comes to quarantine, generally all those who come from an area of high risk need to quarantine themselves. However, the trade fair participants from such areas are exempt from quarantine as long as they stay for up to 5 days and provise a negative test. This is so because their travel is considered absolutely necessary and cannot be postponed. Of course proof of trade fair participation needs to be presented, that would be either a confirmation from the trade fair organizers or an entry ticket. Unfortunately, there is no exemption for those coming from areas of variants of concerns no matter the purpose of their visit.

Of course by now you are already aware that regulations and guidelines change sometimes far too often, so make sure you get acquainted with the entry requirements before you take off!