Can you travel anywhere in Europe without a passport?


Can you travel anywhere in Europe without a passport? Where Can I Travel without a Passport in the EU? If you are an EU national, or are visiting a Schengen country, you can travel anywhere within the Schengen Area without a passport, just by showing ID with your photo on it. However, you must always carry your passport with you when you travel around the Schengen Area.


When did passports become required for Europe?

During World War I, European governments introduced border passport requirements for security reasons, and to control the emigration of people with useful skills. These controls remained in place after the war, becoming a standard, though controversial, procedure.


Do you need a passport to go from Germany to Poland?

Passport holders from EU member countries, including the U.K., do not need a visa. Poland is a member of the EU's Schengen common border zone, meaning that -- in theory, at least -- if you are arriving from another EU country, you will not be asked to show a passport.


Do I need to carry my passport in Germany?

You don't have to carry your passport, but local authorities can ask to see it. You may need to produce it on request. Always carry a photo ID.


Why do hotels in Europe scan your passport?

In many countries in Europe it is a legal requirement to verify and record the indentity of all foreign residents staying in hotels, and record the details of their ID document. If you entered this (passport No. etc.) online when you booked, they just check your ID is the same at check-in.


Is there passport control between Germany and Spain?

The Schengen area comprises 27 European countries. There is normally no passport control on the borders between these countries. If you have a valid visa or residence permit in one of these countries, you can also visit the other Schengen countries.


What countries can you go to without a passport?

Now, most of the time, you need to have a passport when traveling, but there are always a few exceptions.
  • Best Places to Travel Without a US Passport. You can travel without a passport in the following countries: ...
  • Puerto Rico. ...
  • US Virgin Islands. ...
  • Northern Mariana Islands. ...
  • American Samoa. ...
  • Guam. ...
  • Canada. ...
  • Mexico.


What are the new rules for travel to Europe 2023?

In mid-to-late 2023, U.S. citizens and nationals of over 60 other countries will need an electronic travel authorization to visit much of Europe. Travelers to any Schengen-zone country will have to register with a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).


Can you travel to Europe without a passport from the UK?

Requirements for British Citizens Travelling to the EU To enter the EU after Brexit, you must have the following documents when you travel: Valid passport. Health insurance (such as private travel insurance or an EHIC/GHIC). Enough money to cover your stay in the EU.


When did passports become required for international travel?

With two exceptions, U.S. citizens were not required to have a passport for travel abroad until 1941. Passports were required for a short time during the Civil War (August 19, 1861–March 17, 1862) and during World War I (May 22, 1918–1921). After World War II began, passports became mandatory for all U.S. travelers.


Do they check passports on trains in Europe?

Passport checks used to be carried on the international Eurostar train, but all formalities are now carried out before boarding. At some border crossings, the train stops twice. First on one side of the border for checks and then on the other side for a second set of checks.


Can I travel internationally without a passport?

All travelers must have a passport book for international air travel. Please note that hospital-issued birth certificates, voter registration cards, and affidavits cannot be used. If you were not born in the United States, you can use your original Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship.