The Finnish Border Guard has warned tourists that a large influx of motorists is expected at the Finnish-Russian border due to the long weekend from November 2 to 4.
According to border guards, the next three days will take second place in terms of passenger traffic in 2019. Deputy Commander of the Border Detachment, Lieutenant Colonel Juha Kivelä, reminds Russian travelers: "Mentally prepare yourself for heavy traffic at the border, and allow time and patience to pass through security checkpoints. If possible, choose quieter times of day to cross the border." The Nuijamaa-Brusnichnoe checkpoint is traditionally very popular among St. Petersburg residents, but it's worth remembering that there are two neighboring checkpoints: Vaalimaa-Torfyanovka and Imatra-Svetogorsk.
"Studded tires are already permitted in Finland, as roads can be icy. In fact, we recommend that every driver have winter tires," Lieutenant Colonel Kivelä warns about winter conditions in the region.
Captain Kimmo Sainio, Border Guard Officer in Charge of Border Control, emphasizes the basic rules for border control: Prepare all travel documents, passport and visa, vehicle occupants, and any accompanying documents in advance, including travel insurance, hotel reservations or corresponding proof of accommodation, airline and other tickets, and any invitations. Drivers must present their driver's license, vehicle registration, and green card at border control. Drivers also have the responsibility to ensure that each passenger's documents are in order and valid.
"At the checkpoint, follow the signs and information boards. Stay in the lane you've chosen; crossing a solid line is prohibited, and changing lanes usually only leads to traffic congestion. When leaving the country with tax-free purchases, you can contact a border controller; in this case, there's no need to go to customs, as border guards stamp receipts and invoices for your purchases. Place the receipts between the pages of the passport of the person who made the purchases," Captain Sainio instructs.
Deputy Chief of the Crime Prevention Department, Captain Aki Järvinen, advises all drivers to thoroughly inspect their vehicles before driving. It's important to check the armrests, door pockets, and glove compartments for flashlights, stun guns, air pistols, pepper spray, and telescopic batons.
"Such self-defense items are prohibited in Finland or require a strict Finnish permit. Additionally, you should leave your radar detector or anti-radar device at home. This will help you avoid a number of problems at the border. I'd also like to remind you that in Finland, border guards and customs officers conduct driver tests at the border. So, don't drive if you even slightly suspect you may have alcohol or drugs in your system. The consequences will be severe," he added.
Source: trn-news.ru