New Schengen rules. Travel. More and more European countries are bringing back border controls, temporarily suspending the usual free movement rules under the Schengen Agreement. This means that travelers may now face passport checks, longer lines, and delays at border crossings that were once open.
These changes are mainly due to security concerns, migration issues, and big international events. If you’re planning a trip through Europe, especially by land, it’s a good idea to check border rules in advance.
What is the Schengen area?
The Schengen Area allows people to travel freely across most European countries without border checks. It includes 25 EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Over 3.5 million people cross Schengen borders every day, and nearly 1.7 million live in one country and work in another. But in case of serious threats—like terrorism, migration surges, or major events—countries can temporarily bring back border controls.
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Countries that have reintroduced border checks
Spain (June 27 – July 5, 2025)
Border checks with France and Portugal due to a major UN conference in Seville.
Italy (June 19 – December 18, 2025)
Controls at the Slovenian border because of terrorism risks and the Catholic Jubilee.
Austria (May 12 – November 11, 2025)
Border checks with Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, and Slovenia due to migration and war-related crime.
Denmark (May 12 – November 11, 2025)
Monitoring the German border for threats linked to sabotage and terrorism.
Norway (May 12 – November 11, 2025)
Checks at ports and ferries due to threats against the energy sector.
Sweden (May 12 – November 11, 2025)
Border controls with Denmark over fears of explosives and terrorism.
France (May 1 – October 31, 2025)
Checks at borders with Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, and others due to terrorism and migration issues.
Germany (March 16 – September 15, 2025)
Controls at borders with Poland, France, Austria, Czech Republic, and others to stop illegal migration and smuggling.
Slovenia (June 22 – December 21, 2025)
Border checks with Croatia and Hungary due to security concerns involving Russia.
Netherlands (June 9 – December 8, 2025)
Controls with Belgium and Germany due to an overloaded asylum system.
Bulgaria (January 1 – June 30, 2025)
Border checks with Romania because of illegal migration and refugee arrivals.
What this means for travellers
Even though the Schengen system still works, you might be asked to show your passport or ID at borders that were once open. This applies to tourists, workers, and anyone crossing by car, train, or bus. Before traveling, check official information about your destination to avoid surprises and make your journey smoother and safer.