What is a short-term stay?

A short-term stay is a stay of up to 90 days within 180 days, for example for tourism or visiting purposes.

It is irrelevant whether you stay in Germany for 90 days at a time or enter and leave the country several times.

If you want to work in Germany, a visa is usually required, even if you want to stay in Germany for less than 90 days. EU citizens are exempt from this requirement.

Who can enter Germany without a visa?

For short-term stays of up to 90 days, non-EU nationals living in Spain do not require a visa. Their valid identity document (national passport) and a valid Spanish residence permit are sufficient.

EU nationals require a valid identity document from their home country to travel to Germany.

In addition, nationals of some other countries do not require a visa. You can find an overview here.

Can I travel to Germany with an expired Spanish residence permit and/or „autorización de regreso“?

No. You may only enter Germany for up to 90 days with a valid Spanish residence permit .

It is not possible to enter Germany with an expired Spanish residence permit and the requested extension and/or an „autorización de regreso“.

Can I work?

In principle, you are not allowed to work during a short-term stay without a visa. There may be exceptions, e.g. for internships or artistic performances. Please contact us to clarify whether you need a visa or not.