After initially announcing on May 26 that the country would rescind all COVID-19 entry rules, only to enact tighter travel restrictions June 1-10, Germany has now done an about-face and completely reopened the country to international visitors with no COVID restrictions as of June 11.

What does this mean? As of June 11, Germany currently has:

• No COVID-19 vaccination requirement in place
• No pre-departure or post-arrival COVID testing requirements
• No quarantine requirements for unvaccinated visitors

However, there is one caveat to these restrictions. Chinese citizens continue to be banned from entering Germany due to a reciprocity agreement. This may change at any time, but remains in place for the time being.

It is important to keep in mind that Germany has now changed their COVID entry rules twice in the span of two weeks. There is a very real possibility that the rules could change again, especially if another coronavirus variant causes a spike in infections. Therefore, it is vital for all visitors to carefully check Germany’s current entry rules just prior to departure to the country. The possibility exists that the rules could have changed since you booked your tickets.

One thing that has not changed is Germany’s insurance requirements. If you require a Schengen visa to travel to Germany, then you are still required to purchase Schengen visa medical insurance. This insurance must meet the minimum criteria of providing at least €30,000 in medical coverage, as well as coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.

If you are from a country that allows visa-free travel to Schengen nations, health insurance is not a requirement for you to enter Germany. However, you must keep in mind that your domestic health insurance is unlikely to be accepted overseas, leaving you on the hook for unaffordable healthcare bills if you were to get injured or sick abroad.

To avoid being put in this situation, it is always advisable to purchase travel medical insurance or travel insurance.

With entry requirements changing so frequently, the possibility of breakthrough COVID infections, and other illnesses or injuries, it only makes sense to protect your health and finances with appropriate international insurance coverage.