Rajapiste

Rajapiste is a Finnish term for a border crossing point, a location where people and goods can cross a national boundary and where border control, customs and immigration procedures may be carried out. A rajapiste can be situated at land, sea or air borders and is typically equipped with facilities for checking identity documents, visas or permits, and for declaring goods.

In the context of international travel and commerce, rajapistes are designated by governments to manage border crossings. Finland, as part of the Schengen Area, maintains external border crossing points for controls at its borders with non‑Schengen states. Internal borders within the Schengen area are generally open, but border checks can be temporarily reinstated in response to security or public health concerns.

Examples of rajapistes in Finland include border crossing points along the borders with Russia and Sweden. Well-known sites include facilities on the southeast border and on the border with Sweden, such as Tornio. Other important crossings along the Finnish–Russian border exist as well. The availability and hours of operation at individual rajapistes can vary, with some operating around the clock and others subject to seasonal or policy-driven restrictions.

Administrative responsibility for rajapiste operations typically involves the Finnish Border Guard (Rajavartiolaitos) for border control, and customs authorities (Finnish Customs) for goods procedures. Police support may be involved in certain checks or security tasks. The concept of rajapiste remains central to cross-border mobility and enforcement of national and international regulations.