Passport Check in Swiss Trains?
I will be travelling in Switzerland, and I am planning to leave my passport in the hotel. How often are random passport/visa checks in Swiss trains? Thank you in advance.
Best Answer
It sometimes happens near borders (for example on the Zurich-Milan train, I was once checked between Lugano and Chiasso, both in Switzerland), but it's not a general phenomenon.
So if you want, you can keep your passport at the hotel, but do carry a laminated copy just in case (ID page and, if applicable, pages with the entry stamp and visa)
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Do they check passports on trains in Switzerland?
You enter Switzerland when going into the main building. The passport check, if it takes place at all, takes anything between 5-15 min. If you are on a direct train from France into Switzerland, the passport checks take place in the train. The procedure shouldn't last more than a few minutes.Do trains check passport?
With a rail pass, you'll need your passport to validate the pass before its first use (you must do this at a ticket window before boarding). For any subsequent use of the same pass, you might not need your passport before boarding any other train, although a train conductor might ask you a prove of identity.Is there passport control on trains in Europe?
No, there is no customs or border check. You won't even know that you have crossed the border unless you happen to notice that station signs are in a different language. If you are travelling entirely within the EU you won't have your passports checked and consequently won't have them collected.Do they check train tickets in Switzerland?
Yes, the train system operates on the honour system in Switzerland. They expect people to pay for their tickets but will do random checks from time to time. Very rarely do I see anyone get caught and fined as most Swiss don't mind paying for a ticket.SWITZERLAND | 8 Train Travel Tips (for first-timers)
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Answer 2
Please be careful when it comes to making copies of official documents. They may be considered an attempt to counterfeit.
In Switzerland you are not required to carry any ID with you. But practically, this may make you loose some time if a policeman thinks he / she has a reason to check your identity.
Any other official document issued by your home country; preferably with a picture on it (driving license?) may serve as a replacement ID.
Answer 3
If you travel using a Swiss Pass, or a Half Fare Card you will be asked to show a photo ID by the ticket inspector. That means you may have to show your passport.
So I would suggest you keep it with you.
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