Berlin to Seattle (BER–BFI) — Airlines, Schedules & Connections

German passport holders travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for stays up to 90 days. You must apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before departure. ESTA costs USD 21, is valid for 2 years, and approval usually comes within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before travel in case of delays.

ESTA requires a machine-readable passport. If your German passport was issued after 2005 it qualifies. You need a return or onward ticket. The 90-day limit is strict and cannot be extended. Leaving to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean does not reset the clock. If you overstay even by one day, your ESTA is voided and future entries require a full visa interview at the US Embassy.

CBP officers at the US port of entry make the final admission decision. They may ask about your travel purpose, accommodation, and ties to Germany. Honest, brief answers work best. Global Entry membership (USD 100, 5-year validity) speeds up the arrival process at most major US airports through automated kiosks.

The Airport Express (FEX) train runs non-stop from Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Ostbahnhof to BER in 30 minutes (€3.80 with ABC zone ticket, or included in Berlin day passes). S-Bahn S9 also connects the airport to central Berlin with stops, taking about 45–50 minutes for the same fare.Taxis from Mitte cost €40–55 (35–50 min). Ride-shares (Uber) run €30–45. The A113 motorway provides direct access from the city ring. Parking from €10/day in the P4/P5 lots with terminal walkway. BER opened in 2020 after years of delays; infrastructure is new and well-organized.