UAE citizens can now use e-gates at German airports: Free EasyPASS-RTP registration from November 1

Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced that the use of electronic gates at German airports is available to UAE citizens aged 12 and above, in order to facilitate and expedite their travel procedures. For its part, the German Federal Police confirmed, via its website, that joining the “EasyPASS-RTP” system for Emirati citizens is completely free, noting that the service is mainly aimed at frequent travellers, with the aim of simplifying and facilitating border control procedures during travel. Specifically, MOFA stated in its travel advice for the Federal Republic of Germany that, starting November 1, UAE citizens aged 12 and above can use the e-gates at German airports. The Ministry clarified that using this service requires a valid biometric passport, in addition to pre-registration and approval in the EasyPASS-RTP registered passenger system through authorised registration offices at German airports. For its part, the German Federal Police stated that joining the EasyPASS-RTP program is now available to UAE citizens free of charge, and the program's duration is limited to the validity period of the electronic passport, with the possibility of re-registration upon issuance of a new passport. The terms and conditions for joining the programme were explained, which are: possessing a valid electronic passport, being 12 years of age or older, and being present in person at one of the service offices at EasyPASS system application locations in German airports. This can be done without the need for a prior appointment during official working hours. Upon successful registration, the traveller will receive an executive copy of the consent declaration and will be able to start using the EasyPASS system immediately. To ensure a quick and easy registration, you can bring the registration form after filling it out in advance. The Registered Traveler Program (RTP) allows the use of the ‘EasyPASS’ system as a simple, quick and convenient alternative to traditional border control procedures. This requires holding an electronic passport issued by a country that has entered into a reciprocal agreement for the use of automated border control procedures. The authorities noted that the Federal Republic of Germany has concluded cooperation agreements in this regard with the United States of America, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Visa-free entry The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that UAE citizens are exempt from entry visas to Germany, specifying the permitted stay for tourism purposes, which is 90 consecutive days, or separate days within 180 days. It noted that the permitted stay for treatment purposes is 90 days, whether consecutive or separate. If it is known in advance that the 90-day period will be exceeded, it is advisable to apply for a medical visa from representatives of the German diplomatic mission in the country before traveling, and thus it is possible to stay in the host country for the entire duration of the treatment. MOFA explained that the permitted stay for study purposes is 90 days, whether consecutive or separate. If it is known in advance that the 90-day period will be exceeded, it is advisable to apply for a special study visa from the representatives of the German diplomatic mission in the country before travelling, and thus it is possible to be present in the host country for the entire study period. Regarding the permitted length of stay for work purposes, it is advisable to apply for a work visa from representatives of the German diplomatic mission in the country before travelling, so that one can be present in the host country for the entire duration of the work.