Border crossings by train
Passport, document and customs rules on the four main rail routes from Germany to its Schengen neighbours.
Quick answer
Schengen internal vs. customs outer border – what should I expect?
Germany borders Schengen neighbours with different statuses: Czechia and Poland are Schengen internal borders, temporary border checks can be introduced, extended or ended at short notice; always carry a valid ID and expect spot checks. Denmark is Schengen but can introduce national checks, carry an ID, spot checks are possible. Switzerland is in the Schengen Area but not in the EU customs union, mobile police and customs checks remain. Current temporary controls can change at short notice; always carry a valid ID and a small time buffer.
The four main routes
Click a route for full information on documents, procedure and the current check regime.
Passport control on trains Germany–Switzerland
Germany and Switzerland are both in the Schengen Area. German or Swiss authorities may still board the train, check you at the station, or operate near the border. Carry a valid travel document.
Passport control on trains Germany–Czechia
Germany and Czechia are Schengen states. There is normally no fixed passport clearance, but temporary checks and spot inspections on trains remain possible.
Passport control on trains Germany–Poland
Germany and Poland are both in the Schengen Area. Currently ordered or spot checks on trains and at border stations can still happen.
Passport control on trains Germany–Denmark
Germany and Denmark are Schengen states. Denmark can introduce temporary checks; checks on trains or at the first station beyond the border are possible.
Background
The four main routes between Germany and its neighbours have different rules for passport, identity and customs checks. This overview page bundles the current notes on documents, the procedure during a train check, and edge cases such as temporary internal-border controls. All information is based on official sources, the German Federal Police, the European Commission, the German Federal Foreign Office, and the destination-country authorities.