Vaccinations in Germany – What’s Mandatory and What’s Recommended?

Germany does not have a general vaccination mandate, but it relies on strong public health guidance from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO). In some cases, vaccinations are effectively required – especially when it comes to school or daycare attendance.

For Expats, it’s important to understand which vaccinations are legally required, strongly recommended, or optional.

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1. Is vaccination mandatory in Germany?

No, there is no general vaccination requirement in Germany. However, one key exception exists:

✔️ Measles Protection Law (Masernschutzgesetz):

> Children must be vaccinated against measles to attend school or daycare.

Since attending school is compulsory in Germany, this creates an indirect legal obligation to be vaccinated against measles – otherwise, enrollment is not possible.

📌 This rule also applies to teachers, childcare staff, and refugees in shared housing.

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2. What vaccinations are recommended by STIKO?

The STIKO regularly updates its national recommendations, which include:

MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP)

Polio

Hepatitis B

Pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines (for infants)

HPV (for teenagers)

Flu shot (annually for risk groups)

COVID-19 (based on current guidelines)

💡 Tip: Most recommended vaccines are covered by public health insurance and can be administered by a general practitioner or pediatrician.

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3. What should Expats pay attention to?

✔️ Bring your vaccination records, even if issued in another country

✔️ Some vaccines may be combined differently in Germany (e.g., 6-in-1 vaccines for infants)

✔️ If your status is unclear, you can request blood tests to check for immunity

✔️ Without proof of measles vaccination, school or daycare enrollment may be denied

📌 Schools and kindergartens often enforce this rule strictly.

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Conclusion

While most vaccines are voluntary in Germany, some – like the measles shot – are practically mandatory due to school entry requirements. For Expats, checking your family’s vaccination status early ensures smooth enrollment in educational institutions and helps protect the health of your community.