Published on
September 4, 2025
UK has issued a new urgent travel advisory for Greece, Hungary, and Germany ahead of the autumn season due to rising concerns over visa requirements, increased wildfire risks in Greece, and growing security threats in Germany. Travellers are encouraged to keep up with the latest safety instructions due to significant changes in Schengen area entry regulations, including the implementation of biometric checks beginning in October 2025. This advisory highlights important topics like emergency preparedness, entry requirements, and potential security threats that may affect your travel plans this autumn and winter, giving UK citizens the knowledge they need to travel safely through these nations.
As the autumn season approaches, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel advisories for Greece, Hungary, and Germany, outlining key risks and entry requirements for travelers. The advisory comes amid concerns about wildfires in Greece, visa changes across the Schengen area, and security risks in Germany. This detailed guide aims to provide UK travelers with the latest information to ensure a safe and smooth trip during the fall and winter months.
Greece: Wildfires, Visa Guidelines, and Emergency Preparedness
Greece remains a popular travel destination, especially during the summer months, but the country faces significant wildfire risks from April to October. The threat of wildfires is particularly high during the warmer seasons, with fires being both unpredictable and highly dangerous. The FCDO strongly advises travelers to register their mobile phones to receive emergency alerts. This allows tourists to be warned of any wildfires near their location and act swiftly in case of an emergency.
To avoid starting wildfires, travelers are urged to take the following precautions:
- Leave no litter: Glass and other debris can start fires when exposed to the sun.
- Ensure cigarettes are properly extinguished: A careless cigarette can ignite dry vegetation.
- Avoid lighting barbecues in dry, high-risk areas: Barbecues can spark a wildfire, especially during hot, dry periods.
In Greece, causing a wildfire, even unintentionally, is considered a criminal offense. If travelers spot a fire or are in danger, they should immediately call Greek emergency services at 112. The FCDO also encourages tourists to follow official updates from @112Greece and adhere to the guidance provided by emergency services.
Travel Precautions and Entry Requirements for Greece
Before traveling to Greece, all UK citizens should ensure their travel documents comply with the following requirements:
- Passport Validity: Your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before your planned arrival date. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area.
- Visa Requirements: UK nationals can visit Greece for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring a visa. This visa-free period applies to tourists, business visitors, and those attending cultural or sports events. For those wishing to stay longer, they must apply for a national visa through Greek authorities.
From October 2025, the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will require travelers to have their biometric data (photo and fingerprints) recorded when entering or leaving the Schengen area, including Greece. Be prepared for longer wait times at border control as the new system is rolled out.
Travel Insurance: Essential for Safety
The FCDO emphasizes the importance of having comprehensive travel insurance when visiting Greece. Ensure your policy covers potential emergencies, including wildfires, medical emergencies, and any activities planned during your stay.
Germany: Security Threats and Updated Visa Guidelines
Germany, like many European nations, remains a high-risk area for terrorist attacks, particularly in public spaces frequented by foreign nationals. The FCDO warns of the possibility of indiscriminate attacks in places such as:
- Restaurants
- Markets
- Shopping centers
- Cultural and sporting events
- Places of worship, including synagogues
Recent terrorist activity has raised concerns, with attacks in 2024, 2021, and previous years highlighting the ongoing threat. These incidents, including knife attacks and mass shootings, underscore the importance of remaining vigilant while traveling.
UK nationals are encouraged to:
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Follow official safety advice and remain updated via the UK Counter Terrorism Policing resources.
- Take immediate action if you are caught in a terrorist attack, including finding a safe place, alerting authorities, and assisting others when possible.
Crime and Personal Security in Germany
Crime levels in Germany are similar to those found in the UK, with particular risks of pickpocketing, mugging, and bag-snatching. The FCDO advises travelers to be extra cautious in crowded areas such as:
- Airports
- Railway stations
- Tourist hotspots
As in many other countries, the risk of counterfeit currency exists, so UK nationals should only exchange money at official locations such as banks and licensed currency exchanges.
Entry Requirements for Germany
For travelers entering Germany, the Schengen area rules apply:
- Passport Validity: As with Greece, your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years and remain valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.
- Visa-Free Travel: UK citizens can visit Germany for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without needing a visa. This applies for tourism, business, and short-term studies or training.
- Staying Longer Than 90 Days: If you wish to stay in Germany longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a residence permit or national visa through the German authorities.
The upcoming Entry/Exit System (EES), set to take effect on October 12, 2025, will also impact travelers to Germany. Expect additional checks at border control, including biometric data collection and answers to Schengen Border Code questions.
Hungary: Travel Safety and Entry Requirements
Hungary has seen its share of political and social tensions, but it remains a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, visitors are encouraged to exercise caution in busy urban centers and during large public events.
As with other EU nations, travelers should be aware of the risk of terrorism, though Hungary has not experienced significant attacks in recent years. Always stay alert, particularly in tourist-heavy locations.
Entry Requirements for Hungary
Hungary follows the same entry rules as other Schengen countries, meaning:
- Passport Validity: Ensure that your passport meets Schengen requirements, with a date of issue no older than 10 years and a validity of at least 3 months after your planned departure date.
- Visa-Free Travel: UK nationals can stay in Hungary for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa for tourism, business, and short-term studies.
- Longer Stays: For extended stays or work-related travel, travelers will need to apply for a residence permit or work visa.
As with Greece and Germany, Hungary will adopt the EES system starting October 2025, which will involve additional biometric checks at borders.
Travel Insurance: A Crucial Element
For any trip abroad, particularly when traveling to regions with heightened risks, obtaining adequate travel insurance is paramount. The FCDO stresses the importance of choosing a policy that not only covers medical emergencies but also includes protection against potential issues such as wildfires, political unrest, or trip cancellations.
Ensure that your travel insurance policy:
- Covers emergency medical care, including repatriation.
- Protects against cancellations or delays, especially if you are in a region prone to unpredictable events like wildfires or terrorist threats.
- Includes coverage for activities you plan to engage in, such as hiking, sports, or cultural tours.
Traveling to Greece, Hungary, or Germany this fall and winter requires careful planning, especially considering the evolving risks of wildfires, security threats, and changes in visa regulations. The FCDO’s advisory serves as a vital resource to help UK travelers stay informed and prepared for their journeys.
UK has issued an urgent travel advisory for Greece, Hungary, and Germany ahead of the autumn season due to heightened risks from wildfires, security threats, and new visa regulations. Travelers are urged to stay informed about critical entry requirements and safety precautions as these factors could impact their plans.
By staying informed and following these precautions, you can help ensure your safety while traveling to these beautiful yet risk-prone destinations.
