Border crossing Switzerland Germany
The German-Swiss border represents a geopolitically significant construct that reflects the relationship between two central European states. The border extends over a length of approximately 362 kilometers. It begins at the tripoint near Basel, where Germany, France, and Switzerland meet, and ends near Diessenhofen on the Upper 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 wooded areas.
Border Controls and Entry Requirements
A key aspect of this border is the border controls that have historically characterized the 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 exist. Personal checks may occur sporadically, particularly during periods of heightened security requirements or political tensions. Checks on goods and merchandise occur more frequently, since Switzerland is not part of the EU customs union. These customs checks serve to prevent the import of improperly declared goods and to ensure the collection of duties. It is therefore recommended to always inform yourself about the current regulations before crossing the border.
Several aspects must be considered regarding entry requirements. For EU citizens, entry into Switzerland is generally straightforward; a valid national ID card or passport is sufficient. However, for stays longer than 90 days or for taking up employment, additional documents and permits are required. For non-EU citizens, stricter requirements may apply, ranging from a visa requirement to special work permits. In addition, it should be noted that a toll or vignette obligation 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 for both road traffic and pedestrians.
Schaffhausen – Stein am Rhein: This border crossing enables traffic into 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 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 the route are subject to additional charges.
Switzerland: Vignette Requirement
A vignette is required on Swiss motorways. Passenger cars and trailers up to a permissible total weight of 3.5 t require an annual vignette (sticker vignette or e-vignette). In addition, two tunnels in Switzerland, as well as certain car-carrying trains (transport of roadworthy and registered motor vehicles on another vehicle), are subject to fees, 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 total weight of over 3.5 t, the flat-rate Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA) applies. This must be paid upon entry at customs or in advance online via the Via portal. Please also take into account possible additional fees for certain tunnels and car-carrying trains. Vehicles (including heavy motorhomes) and trailers with a permissible total 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.
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 under 3.5 t permissible total weight. For trucks, a toll must be paid on federal motorways, including service and rest areas, as well as on federal highways. 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 via email.
