Border crossing Switzerland Germany
The German-Swiss border represents a geopolitically significant construct that reflects the relationship between two key European states. The border stretches for approximately 362 kilometers. It begins at the tripoint near Basel, where Germany, France, and Switzerland meet, and ends near Diessenhofen on the High Rhine. The course of the border is shaped by a variety of natural and artificial features, including rivers, mountains, and so-called "green" borders that run through forested areas.
Border Controls and Entry Requirements
A key aspect of this border is the border controls, which have historically shaped the border crossings. Although Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, it is part of the Schengen Area, which generally facilitates cross-border traffic. Nevertheless, certain exceptions and special regulations apply. Checks on individuals may occasionally take place, particularly during periods of heightened security requirements or political tension. Checks on goods are more common, as Switzerland is not part of the EU customs union. These customs checks are intended to prevent the import of improperly declared goods and to ensure the collection of duties. It is therefore recommended to always check the current regulations before crossing the border.
Several aspects should be taken into account regarding entry requirements. For EU citizens, entry into Switzerland is generally straightforward; a valid identity card or passport is sufficient. However, for stays of more than 90 days or the taking up of employment, additional documents and permits are required. For non-EU citizens, stricter requirements may apply, ranging from a visa obligation to specific work permits. In addition, it should be noted that a toll or vignette requirement may apply in Switzerland.
Border Crossings
The following section gives you a brief overview of various border crossings you can use to cross the border:
Basel (EuroAirport) – Weil am Rhein: This border crossing represents an important connection for road traffic and is accessible to vehicles as well as pedestrians and cyclists.
Kreuzlingen – Konstanz: This border crossing is located near Lake Constance and is accessible to both road traffic and pedestrians.
Schaffhausen – Stein am Rhein: This border crossing provides access to the German district of Konstanz.
St. Margrethen – Lindau: This border crossing is located in eastern Switzerland and leads to Bavaria.
Aargau (Laufenburg) – Bad Säckingen: This border crossing runs along the Rhine, connecting the Swiss region of Aargau with the German federal state of Baden-Württemberg.
Switzerland
The following section gives you an overview of whether a vignette is required in Switzerland and whether certain sections of road are subject to additional tolls.
Switzerland: Vignette Requirement
A vignette is required on Swiss motorways. Passenger cars and trailers up to a permissible gross weight of 3.5 t require an annual vignette (sticker vignette or e-vignette). In addition, two tunnels in Switzerland as well as certain vehicle train transports (transport of roadworthy and registered motor vehicles by another vehicle) are subject to tolls, which may result in additional costs.
Use of the Gotthard Tunnel is included in the Swiss vignette; therefore, no additional fees apply for this tunnel.
Heavy Vehicle Charge
For motor vehicles with a permissible gross weight of over 3.5 t, the flat-rate heavy vehicle charge (PSVA) applies. This must be paid at customs upon entry or in advance online via the Via portal. Please also note that additional fees may apply for certain tunnels and vehicle train transports. Vehicles (including heavy motorhomes) as well as trailers with a permissible gross weight of over 3.5 t are exempt from the vignette requirement.
Toll Tunnels: Special Toll
In addition to the digital vignette or heavy vehicle charge, further fees apply for the use of certain tunnels, the amount of which depends on the respective vehicle class. Particular attention should be paid to:
Great St. Bernard Road Tunnel (Switzerland–Italy)
Munt-la-Schera Road Tunnel (Switzerland–Italy)
Germany
The following section gives you an overview of whether a vignette is required in Germany and whether there are certain toll sections of road.
Germany: Vignette Requirement
In Germany, there is no vignette requirement for motorways. This means that most motorways can be used toll-free. Exceptions may include certain motorway tunnels and bridges, for which fees are charged. These fees serve to finance and maintain the respective infrastructure and are generally payable at toll stations or via electronic payment systems.
Distance-Based Toll
No distance-based toll is charged for vehicles with a permissible gross weight of under 3.5 t. Trucks are required to pay a toll on federal motorways, including service and rest areas, as well as on federal roads. The truck toll can be paid, for example, via an on-board unit (OBU).
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey
We wish you a pleasant journey to Switzerland and much enjoyment on your exploration tour through the country's impressive natural scenery. Please inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. In addition, our route planner is available to help you plan your journey optimally and display the corresponding toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to assist you. Feel free to contact us at any time by email.
