Germany is a Schengen state. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals travel freely with a national ID or passport. Visitors from the UK, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and other visa-waiver countries may enter for business and trade-fair visits for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa, carrying a passport valid at least three months beyond departure. Nationals of visa-required countries need a Schengen Type C short-stay visa (EUR 90 for adults, EUR 45 for children aged 6–12), applied for at a German embassy or consulate up to six months ahead, with standard processing around 15 calendar days. Bring the Messe Essen or organiser invitation letter, hotel confirmation, travel medical insurance covering at least EUR 30,000 and proof of funds. Germany also accepts ATA carnets for temporary exhibition goods, and the EU's ETIAS pre-travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors is due to apply to this kind of trip once it launches.
Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
Apply at the German embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence. Submit the Messe Essen invitation or registration confirmation, hotel booking, travel medical insurance of at least EUR 30,000 cover, and proof of funds. Children aged 6–12 pay EUR 45. Carry a passport valid for at least three months beyond departure plus proof of accommodation and onward travel for a business visit.
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