Correcting a visa/entry mistake at the border: What should you ask the police for?

What are the common mistakes in a visa or entry stamp at the border?

• An entry stamp placed in the old passport instead of the new one

• An entry date that does not match the actual travel date

• No entry stamp at all

• An exit stamp placed by mistake instead of an entry stamp

• The name or passport number does not match the visa details

What should you do immediately after noticing the mistake?

1. Do not leave the airport or border area before it is clarified

• Go to the Police / Federal Police (Bundespolizei) office at the airport or border crossing.

• Ask to speak to the officer responsible for entry / border control.

2. Explain the problem calmly and accurately
For example:

• “No entry stamp was placed.”

• “The stamp is in the wrong passport.”

3. Request a correction or an official proof of entry

• You can request a correct entry stamp in the appropriate passport.

• Or ask for a written alternative: a written entry confirmation (an official letter confirming you entered on a specific date).

What exactly should you request from the police or authorities?
If they cannot correct the stamp immediately, request a document titled:

• “Certificate of border crossing”
  or

• “Replacement entry certificate”

It should include:

• your full name

• your passport number

• date and time of entry

• an official signature and stamp from the Federal Police

What if you left the airport and discovered the mistake later?
Go immediately to the nearest police station or the foreigners’ authority (Ausländerbehörde) and bring:

• your original flight ticket or boarding pass

• your booking confirmation / airline confirmation email

• a copy of your visa

• both passports, if you have more than one

You may be asked to complete a later request to prove your entry retroactively.

Why is correcting the mistake important?

• When applying for asylum, a residence permit, or a visa extension, authorities often require proof that you entered legally.

• A missing entry stamp may be treated as an indication of irregular entry.

• Correcting it helps you avoid later legal and administrative problems.

Conclusion
If you notice an error in the entry stamp or visa details at the border, act immediately and do not postpone it. Ask border police to correct the stamp or issue a written proof of entry. If you discover it later, contact the police or local foreigners’ authority promptly and bring all evidence that confirms your real entry date.

Editorial note
The site’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through thorough research and by consulting multiple sources. However, mistakes may occur or some details may remain unconfirmed. Please treat the content as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for officially confirmed information.