section_path: Regulation of internal borders
section_name: Regulation of internal borders
paragraph_text: Regulation of internal borders
  
  Before the implementation of the Schengen Agreement, most borders in Europe were patrolled and a vast network of border posts existed around the continent, to check the identity and entitlement of people wishing to travel from one country to another.
  
  Since the implementation of the Schengen rules, border posts have been closed (and often entirely removed) between participating countries.
  
  The Schengen Borders Code requires participating states to remove all obstacles to free traffic flow at internal borders. Thus, road, rail and air passengers no longer have their identity checked by border guards when travelling between Schengen countries, although security controls by carriers are still permissible. Per EU guidelines all EU citizens are advised to bring a passport or national identity card, as one may be required.
  
  Passport stamps are never issued when travelling between Schengen member states, even when border controls between Schengen member states are temporarily re-introduced.