Traveling with residence permits

Holders of German residence permits (Bürgergeld) generally experience smooth border crossings within the Schengen area via Germany. Routine checks involve scanning the permit and passport. However, occasional questions may arise concerning the purpose of travel, expiry and renewal of the permit, or parental consent for minors traveling alone. It is advisable to carry all relevant documents, including any required permissions for children, when crossing borders.

Entry into the Schengen Area using a Fiktionsbescheinigung (§4) may depend on the specific type of Fiktionsbescheinigung and the checkboxes marked on the document. Entry might be restricted to Germany, or it could allow travel to other Schengen countries. Users should consult the German Federal Police (Bundespolizei) or the issuing authority for clarification based on their specific document and intended travel route.

When traveling from Germany to Kaliningrad via Poland using Fiktion §81 (4), challenges may arise with re-entry into Germany rather than the departure itself. Alternative return routes such as via Turkey or Armenia are suggested. Be prepared for potential heightened scrutiny at the Russian border, especially for non-EU/non-Ukrainian citizens, which may include detailed questioning and document checks.

Travel within the Schengen Area using a valid residence permit (eufat) and a valid Russian passport (including 5-year non-biometric) is generally possible without border control. However, random checks occur. Official guidance suggests that while EU-issued residence permits are accepted for entry, applicants should carry all valid travel documents to mitigate risks during random police or border authority checks.