In 2025, the once seamless flow of travel across the Schengen Area was disrupted with the reintroduction of internal border checks. Many countries within the zone have reinstated passport and document inspections, often due to national security concerns, migration challenges, and the hosting of significant international events. Here’s an overview of the countries affected and essential traveler tips.
Germany
Germany reintroduced border checks in September 2024 to combat illegal migration and organized smuggling operations. These measures have been extended until at least September 15, 2025.
Reason: Irregular migration and smuggling operations.
Affected Borders: Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, France, Switzerland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg.
Traveler Tips: Always carry your passport or ID; expect delays when traveling by car or train.
France
France has continued internal checks to bolster security, especially in light of terrorism concerns and the upcoming Olympics.
Reason: Terrorist threats and security concerns around major events.
Status: November 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025 (expected renewal).
Focus Areas: Borders with Belgium, Germany, Spain, and Italy; major airports and train stations.
Traveler Tips: Be prepared for document checks in high-security areas like stadiums or public events.
Netherlands
The Netherlands reinstated border checks at major transport hubs to manage increased migration flows.
Reason: Increased migration pressure.
Status: Active from December 9, 2024, to June 8, 2025.
Focus Areas: Airports, ferry terminals, and international rail stations.
Traveler Tips: Expect document inspections when traveling by train or ferry.
Austria
Austria has ramped up border surveillance to manage migration through the Western Balkans.
Reason: Migration through the Balkan route.
Status: Controls extended into 2025.
Main Focus: Borders with Hungary, Slovenia, and Slovakia.
Traveler Tips: Expect road checks and possible delays near highways and border crossings.
Italy
Italy introduced reinforced internal border checks in response to ongoing migrant arrivals and national security concerns.
Reason: Migration security risks.
Status: Introduced in late 2024, continuing into 2025.
Affected Areas: Border crossings with France, Austria, and Slovenia.
Traveler Tips: Carry your ID, especially when traveling by train.
Slovenia
Slovenia has intensified border checks due to regional instability and migration concerns, particularly on its southern and eastern borders.
Reason: Regional instability and migration.
Status: Active since December 2024.
Affected Borders: Croatia, Hungary, Italy, and Austria.
Traveler Tips: Carry a passport or ID and expect random checks when driving.
Denmark
Denmark has extended internal Schengen checks at key entry points due to security concerns and migration flows.
Reason: Migration and national security.
Status: Active until late 2025.
Focus Areas: Øresund Bridge (to Sweden), ferries from Germany and Sweden.
Traveler Tips: Expect ID checks when traveling between Germany and Sweden.
Sweden
Sweden has continued to implement internal border checks throughout 2025 to manage migration and transnational crime.
Reason: Migration and crime.
Status: Active throughout 2025.
Key Areas: Ports, airports, and land borders with Denmark and Norway.
Traveler Tips: Carry your ID when crossing borders by land or public transport.
Norway
As a non-EU Schengen member, Norway has extended its internal border checks to maintain regional security and manage migration flows.
Reason: Migration and Nordic security alignment.
Status: Controls extended through 2025.
Monitoring Areas: Ferry terminals, southern land borders, airports.
Traveler Tips: Expect ID checks when traveling from Sweden or Denmark.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria, which partially joined the Schengen Zone in January 2025, is implementing selective internal controls as part of its gradual integration.
Reason: Controlled Schengen integration.
Status: Partial Schengen participation with selective controls.
Focus Areas: Air, sea borders, and land checks at discretion.
Traveler Tips: Be sure to check entry requirements when traveling in and out of Bulgaria.
While these border checks might disrupt the traditional ease of movement across the Schengen Area, they are deemed necessary to address pressing security, migration, and national safety concerns. Plan, keep your documents handy, and factor in additional travel time when journeying across the continent.
