Germany has begun to relax coronavirus lockdown measures but strict measures are still in place. All are wondering when the non-essential travel in and out of the country be possible.
Germany is taking the first small steps back to normal life. Many shops have reopened this week and schools are set to resume classes in the coming weeks, albeit with strict social distance obligations and hygiene rules.
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Chancellor Angela Merkel said the measures, including a ban on gatherings of more than two people in public and a distance of 1.5 meters from others, will remain in force until at least May 3.
For many international residents in Germany, the question of when they will see their loved ones again awaits an answer, but things are far from clear in terms of travel.
What is the current situation regarding travel in Germany?
The traffic ban will remain in force until May 3. This means that people in Germany are not allowed to travel (unless there is a valid reason to do so, such as for essential work). Visits to and from relatives are not allowed.
Germany issued a global travel warning in March, recommending the avoidance of non-essential trips abroad, especially for tourism. The restrictions are in force until 3 May, together with the social distance measures imposed at national level.
What will happen after this date will be one of the topics to be debated by the government and the federal states on April 30.
Entry into Germany for tourist purposes is strictly prohibited. Non-German citizens trying to enter the country for any non-essential trips may be denied entry, the Interior Ministry said.
Moreover, hotels, guesthouses, hostels and campsites are not open to tourists and there is no indication of when they will be allowed to reopen.
There are border restrictions around the world, as all countries are desperately trying to limit the spread of coronavirus.
Germany joined the rest of the EU in mid-March, restricting all non-essential travel outside the Schengen area. This measure is in force until May 15 and can be extended.
Citizens of EU Member States and their families, as well as citizens of the United Kingdom, Schengen countries and their families are allowed to travel through Germany to their country of origin if no other travel route is possible. They are also allowed to enter if their domicile or legal residence is in Germany.
Those returning to Germany must spend the first two weeks in compulsory self-isolation.