In Germany, the invitation often sets a precise arrival time
For a home visit, the agreed time can mark when the host is ready to receive guests—not simply the latest acceptable moment to show up. Those last few minutes may be reserved for finishing dinner, changing clothes, or tidying a room. An early arrival can interrupt that preparation, even when it is meant as a courtesy.
This is less about a universal national rule than about respecting the plan the host made. Expectations vary by household and occasion; a casual gathering may be flexible, while a formal dinner may not be. If the invitation gives a window or says to come early, follow that instead.
Treat punctuality as consideration, not a test
If you arrive before the stated time, wait nearby rather than ringing the bell early. If you realize you will be late, send a brief message as soon as you can; that gives the host a chance to adjust. For a first visit, asking whether the host prefers an exact-time arrival is perfectly reasonable.
The small courtesy is to let the host control the moment the visit begins. In practice, arriving on time means being ready at the door when the agreed time arrives—not making the host choose between greeting you and finishing the preparations.
