The border between Germany and Switzerland is approximately 350 kilometers long and follows Lake Constance as well as the High Rhine.
It includes mostly German territory in the north and the southern regions of Switzerland, starting at the German-Swiss-Austrian tripoint.
You can cross the German-Swiss border by train, tram, bus, car, or boat. It lies mostly within the Zurich area and is essential for transport and, thus, the economy.
As Switzerland joined the Schengen Agreement on 12 December 2008, no passport supervision is usually performed.
However, note that you can be checked by the customs officers because the country is not an EU Customs Union member.
The stationary controls are important for national security.
Toll Requirement for Cross-Border Travel
Border control can be performed by officers of the federal police during the crossing, so you must have all the obligatory documents, such as a valid ID.
Also, remember that toll systems apply in Switzerland for vehicles up to 3,5 t. It means you must have a vignette to use the motorways there.
Currently, travelers may get only one type of Swiss vignette, a one-year permit. It can be obtained online via a simple process, including providing details, such as vehicle license plate number, covering the fee, and receiving a confirmation via email.
Planning Your Border Crossing Journey
While planning border crossings, remember to prepare accordingly. Check all the necessary details, such as those related to toll requirements.
In Switzerland, you must have a vignette while traveling by car on the motorway. You also have several other options available to cross the Swiss borders.
What is more, you need to consider peak times. It’s good to travel during specific hours, for example, in the morning, to avoid traffic jams.
You can find alternative routes, so you won’t waste your time. This is important, especially when you are in a hurry.
Switzerland Border Crossing Procedures
As Switzerland has been a part of the Schengen Area since 2008, no permanent passport controls are performed at the border.
However, you should expect customs controls, as Switzerland doesn’t belong to the European Customs Union and is not a member state of the European Union.
Don’t forget about crucial documents that may be necessary during border control.
You need an identification paper, such as an ID or passport. In some cases, a visa may be required as well, so keep that in mind.
Pay Road Tax with a Swiss Vignette
If you travel by vehicle up to 3,5 t from Germany to Switzerland or the other way round, you should consider the toll requirement.
To buy a Swiss vignette, you should:
- Select the vehicle type, duration of a vignette, and start date.
- Provide the necessary information in the form, including the vehicle license plate number.
- Check if the details are correct.
- Cover the fee with one of the available payment methods, such as credit/debit card, Klarna, and more.
- Get your physical sticker on the spot or via email online.
Switzerland vignettes may be obtained online, which is very convenient. You only need an electronic device with an internet connection and a valid means of payment. Also, it’s possible to get it at the sales points, such as gas stations or customs posts at the border.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Do I need a vignette to drive from Germany to Switzerland?
A vignette is necessary on Swiss motorways for vehicles up to 3,5 t. Note that some specific sections of the road may require paying an additional toll. Check all the information before and prepare for your trip.
How much does a vignette cost for travel between Germany and Switzerland?
A vignette for travel between Germany and Switzerland is necessary only when you travel by a vehicle weighing less than 3,5 t on the Swiss motorway. If you use other transportation or avoid paid roads, you don’t need to cover the special toll.
Where can I purchase vignettes and pay tolls for cross-border travel?
You should buy Swiss vignettes online or on the spot at sales points, such as customs posts at the border or filling stations. The first option is more convenient, as you can obtain a permit from the comfort of your home. In Germany, there’s no vignette requirement.
What happens if I don’t have a vignette or fail to pay tolls when crossing the border?
Without a required Swiss vignette, you may face financial and legal consequences. You should read all the necessary information before the trip and get mandatory documents to cross the border without problems.
Is there a border check between Germany and Switzerland?
Both countries, Germany and Switzerland, signed the Schengen treaty, so you can usually cross the border without a check. However, in some cases, you may be controlled, so keep that in mind.