The year 2026 will bring some changes for business travellers that you should definitely be aware of. Whether it's tax benefits, new rail fares or digital entry permits - we give you an overview of the most important changes.
From 2026, employees will be able to claim the commuter allowance of 38 cents from the first kilometre. Previously, this rate only applied from a distance of 20 kilometres. Important for business travellers: The employer's mileage allowance for car journeys on business trips remains unchanged at 30 cents per kilometre.
Since 1 January 2026, the 2025-tested saver price Business has been permanently valid for corporate customers. Advantages for business trips: Train binding included, cancellation possible up to one day before departure and refund to the original means of payment - usually the company credit card.
Deutsche Bahn plans to offer tickets from major neighbouring railway companies directly via Bahn.de or the DB Navigator app by the end of 2026. This will make business trips in Europe easier and save time when booking international rail journeys.
For restaurant visits during business trips, the VAT on meals is reduced from 19 % to 7 %. Please note, however, that not all catering establishments automatically pass this saving on to guests.
Since April 2025, electronic travel authorisation (ETA) has been mandatory for travel to the UK. From 25 February 2026, airlines will increasingly check whether all passengers have a valid ETA.
The Etias digital entry permit will be introduced for non-EU foreigners in the last quarter of 2026. Travellers will first have to pass a biometric check - the system is to be installed in all EU countries by 10 April 2026.
With these changes, you will be well prepared for business travel in 2026. Whether it's tax benefits, new rail fares or digital entry permits - early planning pays off. Use the changes to make your travel more efficient, relaxed and cost-saving. This way, you can start the new year well informed and focus on the essentials: successful business trips.
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