Countries in the Schengen Area are making adjustments to border controls. Germany and Norway have reintroduced or extended internal border checks, and the Netherlands plans to implement land border controls starting December 9, 2024, due to increased migration and security concerns.
Many countries in the Schengen Area, known for their open-border policy that allows seamless travel, are tightening internal border controls. This shift responds to increasing migration pressures, security concerns, and cross-border crime, marking a significant policy shift in Europe’s approach to internal movement. Here’s a summary of recent developments:
1. Germany’s Border Checks:
Germany reintroduced land border controls in September 2024 with Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. The goal is to address illegal migration and bolster security, as authorities report growing entry attempts at these borders. These checks mean travelers—including those from nearby Luxembourg—face additional scrutiny and wait times. Germany maintains that these measures are essential for managing migrant flows that are otherwise challenging to control at external Schengen borders.
2. Upcoming Dutch Controls:
Beginning December 9, 2024, the Netherlands will start land border checks, following similar moves by neighboring countries. Dutch officials cite both national security and migration management as motivations. This aligns with broader efforts across Schengen to address shared challenges, signaling a collaborative but stricter approach to regional mobility.
3. Extended Norwegian Checks:
Norway has prolonged its internal Schengen border checks until at least December 2024. The decision reflects concerns over unauthorized entries and mirrors Germany’s rationale. Norwegian authorities see these checks as essential to maintaining order and countering potential security threats.
4. Austria’s Measures with Hungary and Slovenia:
Austria has extended its controls at the Hungarian and Slovenian borders until May 2025, citing sustained migration flows and related security concerns. This continuation reflects Austria’s strategy to manage its entry points more strictly and enhance its border enforcement in line with other Schengen nations.
These developments mark a shift within the Schengen Area, which is traditionally open for travel without checks. Rising migration levels and national security priorities drive many Schengen countries to adopt these policies. Travelers can expect longer wait times, random checks, and additional document requirements, affecting both frequent cross-border commuters and international tourists.
This new approach may lead other Schengen countries to implement similar policies, potentially redefining the Schengen open-border model if security concerns persist.
