Anyone planning a European trip in 2026 – especially one involving travel across multiple countries – needs to account for an important change. Ten countries in the Schengen Zone will continue operating internal border controls into the coming year, contrary to the principle of free movement between member states.
Within the Schengen Zone, where crossing from country to country typically occurs without passport checks, member states may temporarily restore supervision of internal borders in cases of security threats, terrorism, serious crime, or extraordinary migration pressure.
In recent years, and particularly against the backdrop of wars, terrorism, and illegal migration, more and more countries have chosen to exercise this option – and the situation is expected to continue into early and mid-2026. According to official announcements, the inspections are expected to remain in effect until June 2026, depending on the country.
These are the countries that will enforce border inspections:
Austria
Against the backdrop of illegal migration through the Balkans and pressure on the reception system.
In effect: December 16, 2025 – until June 15, 2026
Expected checks at borders with Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovenia.
Slovenia
Preparation for security threats, organized crime, and mass-participation events in Europe.
In effect: December 22, 2025 – until June 21, 2026
Possible delays at crossings from Croatia and Hungary.
Italy
Concern about terrorism, exploitation of migration routes, and preparation for major events like the Jubilee Year and the Olympics.
In effect: December 19, 2025 – until June 18, 2026
Inspections at entry from Slovenia.
Netherlands
Extraordinary pressure from asylum seekers and smuggling network activity.
In effect: December 9, 2025 – until June 8, 2026
Checks at borders with Belgium and Germany, and also at some airports.
Denmark
Concern about sabotage operations, terrorism, and organized crime against the backdrop of global tensions.
In effect: November 12, 2025 – until May 11, 2026
Inspections primarily toward Germany.
Norway
Protection of energy infrastructure and concern about foreign intelligence activity.
In effect: November 12, 2025 – until May 11, 2026
Checks at ports and on ferries.
Sweden
Rise in organized crime and threats from extremist groups.
In effect: November 12, 2025 – until May 11, 2026
Checks also on flights and at crossings from Denmark.
France
Terror threats, rise in antisemitic incidents, and smuggling from the northern border.
In effect: November 1, 2025 – until April 30, 2026
Checks on land, in the air, and at sea.
Poland
Migration pressure from the Belarus border and intensification of illegal crossings toward Germany.
In effect: October 5, 2025 – until April 4, 2026
Germany
Heavy burden of illegal migration and smuggling networks, alongside security tensions.
In effect: September 16, 2025 – until March 15, 2026
Checks at borders with nearly all its neighbors.
Important to know before traveling
Border inspections don't mean crossings are closed; rather, they allow authorities to conduct spot checks. Nevertheless, travelers need to prepare:
- Carry a passport or identification document at every crossing
- Account for delays, especially at land crossings
- Stay updated on guidelines before and during travel
Authorities emphasize these are temporary measures, expected to be canceled later in 2026 – but until then, free movement in Europe will be somewhat less free.
