Tue, 21 Nov 2006
From the Common Recommendations establishing a common "
Practical Handbook for Border Guards (Schengen Handbook)"
to be used by Member States' competent authorities when carrying out the border
control of persons:
Advice for border guards when conducting the border check:
- when you take the travel document always have a look at the face of the traveller at
first (try to remember as much as possible of the noticeable features of the traveller's
face);
- compare the features of the traveller with the photo and description included in the
travel document, match them also with the visa when this is required (this could help
to eliminate impostors);
- check the travel document through in order to rule out the possibility that it is
counterfeit or forged (the numbering, printing and stitching of pages, seals and
stamps inserted, the inclusion of other persons; all corrections made in the document
especially at the personal data page should be clarified by the traveller);
- check the data in the file system; while doing this keep always verbal contact and
observe the behaviour and reaction of the traveller (e.g., nervousness, an aggressive
attitude, excessive willingness to co-operate);
- before you put the border's stamp make sure that the person did not overstay the
allowed period during his/her last stay within the Schengen States territory (i.e. 3
months within six months[)];
- do not interrogate the traveller as a potential criminal or illegal immigrant. All the
questions should be well balanced and asked in a friendly way.
- questions posed by the traveller should not be considered as intrusive and should be
answered in a factual and polite manner.