Entry & Visa

EU Citizens (since Brexit)

Since Brexit (January 1, 2021), new rules apply: EU citizens need a valid passport to enter the UK. The identity card has not been accepted since October 2021! A visa is not required for stays up to 6 months (tourism).

Upon entry, you will go through the UK Border Control — passport control, sometimes questions about the purpose of the trip and the planned duration of stay. Automatic eGates are available to EU citizens, but they don't always work.

Swiss Citizens

Same rules as EU citizens: Passport required, no visa for up to 6 months.

Customs

Since Brexit, duty-free rules apply as for non-EU countries: Allowances upon return to Germany: 200 cigarettes, 1l spirits, 4l wine. Whisky tip: You can bring up to 1 liter of spirits duty-free — just enough for a good bottle of single malt within the allowance.