When exploring the world on Google Maps, you might see different styles, borders, and labels.
International country borders
International country borders are displayed in different styles according to the political status of the border.
International boundaries
Undisputed international boundaries, like the one between the United States and Canada, are shown as a solid gray line.
Treaty and de facto boundaries
Treaty and provisional boundaries, which are temporary, are displayed as a dashed gray line.
- Treaty boundary: A boundary set in a treaty or similar agreement, but not finalized by law.
- De facto boundary: A boundary not set by a treaty or similar agreement, but used by all states involved.
Disputed boundaries
Disputed boundaries are displayed as a dashed gray line. The places involved don't agree on a boundary.
Country/Region names
Country names, like Germany or Japan, are displayed directly on the map. Google Maps automatically shows place names in the same language that is set in your browser's settings. Learn more about Google Maps languages and domains.
State or province borders
State and province borders, like the boundary of New Jersey or Alberta, are shown as thin, light-gray dotted lines inside a country.