These 10 Nations Will Maintain Temporary Border Controls for Schengen Travel in 2026
Due to security concerns and pressure from migration, a number of Schengen members will maintain or reinstate border checks in 2026. View the dates, the reasons, and the preparations that travelers should make before crossing borders.
Here's a crucial update regarding the boarder controls that may impact your travel plans if you expect to visit any of the Schengen countries in 2026, particularly if you plan to visit several of them.
Although many Schengen nations have implemented temporary border checks that will be in place in early 2026, Schengen nations are renowned for their free travel policies. When a nation is dealing with major security or public order problems, these checks are permitted.
The reasons for the returning checks, a comprehensive tour to each nation, and advice for travelers are provided below.
Schengen Countries' Border Control in 2026
Due to migration pressure and security concerns, a few of Schengen nations will continue internal border inspections in 2026. These inspections will continue until March or June of 2026.
According to the regulations, these checks must be utilized sparingly and only when absolutely necessary. However, a number of governments think the hazards are substantial enough to keep them going until 2026.
1. Austria
High levels of irregular migration via the Balkan routes are anticipated by Austria. Concerns about security are exacerbated by the ongoing conflicts and tensions in the Middle East and Ukraine, which put further strain on the asylum system.
Commencing on December 16, 2025
Ends: June 15, 2026
2.Slovenia
Slovenia is being ready for security threats associated with the Winter Olympics in Italy. Concerns about organized crime, terrorist threats, and potential infiltration via the Western Balkan migratory routes are also present.
Commencing on December 22, 2025
Concludes: June 21, 2026
What travelers should do: When entering Croatia and Hungary, keep your passport close to hand. During peak hours, expect slower crossings.
3.Italy
Terrorist organizations employing unauthorized migratory routes are a concern for Italy. The hazards are increased by protracted conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Large crowds during the Winter Games and Jubilee Year additionally increase security requirements.
Commencing on December 19, 2025
Ends: June 18, 2026
What travelers should do: Prepare your ID and allow a little more time at the border if you are entering Italy from Slovenia.
4. The Netherlands
The Dutch system for asylum and migration is overburdened. Asylum applications, unauthorized entry, and smugglers utilizing the Netherlands as a transit nation are all fairly common.
Commencing on December 9, 2025
Final date: June 8, 2026
What travelers should do: Be prepared for potential checks at certain airports in the Schengen area as well as at the borders with Belgium and Germany. Even for brief cross-border travel, always carry your passport.
5. Denmark
Denmark is vigilant about potential Russian-related sabotage. Concerns of terrorism and organized crime associated with international wars also exist.
Commencing on November 12, 2025
Concludes on May 11, 2026
Travelers should prepare their documentation at Germany's land and maritime borders. If necessary, checks may be extended to additional internal boundaries.
6. Norway
Norway wants to defend its energy infrastructure and take action against any foreign intelligence group sabotage threats.
Commencing on November 12, 2025
Concludes on May 11, 2026
Travelers should be aware that ports with ferry connections to the Schengen area may conduct border inspections. Before you board, make sure your passport is ready.
7. Sweden
Cross-border criminal networks and organized crime are on the rise in Sweden. Threats from violent extremist groups are another concern for the authorities.
Commencing on November 12, 2025
Concludes on May 11, 2026
Travelers should always have their passport with them at all land, air, and marine borders. When you enter from Denmark, you can be screened.
8. France
France mentions criminal organizations engaged in migrant smuggling, an increase in antisemitic crimes, and persistent Islamist threats. Tensions associated with irregular Channel crossings are present in northern coastal communities.
Commencing on November 1, 2025
Ends on April 30, 2026
Travelers should be prepared for border checks with Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Spain, and Italy. There may be further screening at sea and air borders.
9. Poland
Belarus is putting pressure on Poland to migrate irregularly, and there are increasing unlawful crossings close to the German border. The situation could overwhelm security personnel, according to authorities.
Commencing on October 5, 2025
Final date: April 4, 2026
What visitors should do: When entering from Germany or Lithuania, keep your travel documents close at hand.
10. Germany
Smuggling networks and irregular migration are prevalent in Germany. Global conflicts exacerbate the strain on the asylum system and general security.
Commencing on September 16, 2025
Concludes: March 15, 2026
What tourists ought to do: The borders of France, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Czechia, and Poland are likely to be checked. Keep your passport close at hand.
Things Travelers Should Keep in Mind
Borders are not closed by temporary border controls. For security purposes, they just permit authorities to inspect travelers. In early to mid-2026, if you are traveling within the Schengen Zone:
Keep your national ID card or passport with you at all times.
There may be sporadic delays at airports and land borders.
Prior to your trip, check the local travel warnings.
Later in 2026, as security conditions improve, these requirements are anticipated to loosen.
