Random passport checks can happen in many countries, but there are a few European cities and countries where travelers frequently report being stopped for ID or passport checks, even when moving within the Schengen Area (where border checks are generally not required). Here are some of the more notable places abroad (especially in Europe) where random checks are more common:
Countries/Cities Known for Random Passport or ID Checks:
1. Italy (especially Rome, Milan, Venice)
- Italy often conducts random ID checks, especially in train stations and on long-distance trains.
- Border police may board trains coming from neighboring countries.
2. Czech Republic (Prague and border train routes)
- Though it’s in the Schengen Area, random ID/passport checks are frequent—especially on trains coming from Germany or Austria.
- Police may walk through tourist areas and ask for ID.
3. Germany
- Border police often check IDs on trains, particularly near borders with Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic.
- Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg can see ID checks in high-traffic public areas.
4. Austria
- Random passport checks occur near borders and on trains, particularly from Slovenia, Hungary, or Czech Republic.
5. Switzerland
- While not an EU member, it’s in Schengen—but Swiss authorities are known for spot checks on trains and at airports.
- Geneva and Zurich often have visible police presence.
6. France (especially Paris and southern border regions)
- Random ID checks in train stations and metro systems (especially during heightened security alerts).
- Common on routes near the Spanish and Italian borders.
7. Spain
- Random checks at airports and border areas; more frequent in Catalonia due to political sensitivities.
- Barcelona and Madrid metro sometimes have police conducting ID sweeps.
8. Hungary
- Border checks still occur, especially for trains or buses from Serbia, Romania, or Ukraine.
General Notes:
In Eastern and Southeastern Europe, ID checks are more frequent, especially if arriving by land.
Always carry your passport (or a copy if advised locally), especially when traveling between countries or using public transportation.
In the Schengen Zone, internal borders are usually open, but temporary controls or random checks can legally be reinstated for security or migration control.
