In 2025, several Schengen Area countries have reintroduced internal border checks, marking a significant shift in Europe’s approach to free movement. These measures, permitted under the Schengen Borders Code in exceptional circumstances, are primarily driven by concerns over irregular migration, security threats, and major public events.
According to Travelobiz.com, below is a detailed breakdown of the Schengen countries that have reintroduced border controls:
1 Germany
Germany reinstated border checks across multiple land crossings in September 2024 to combat irregular migration and criminal smuggling networks.
Reason: Irregular migration and smuggling networks
Status: Controls active since September 2024, extended to at least September 15, 2025
Key Borders Affected: Poland, Czechia, Austria, France, Switzerland, Denmark, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg
Traveller Tips: Keep your passport or national ID ready; allow extra time when travelling by train or car
2 France
France’s internal checks continue due to terrorism concerns and the legacy of increased security around major events like the Olympics.
Reason: Ongoing terror threats and public event security
Status: November 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025 (expected renewal)
Focus Areas: Borders with Belgium, Germany, Spain, and Italy; major train stations and airports
Traveller Tips: Expect ID checks at borders and high-security areas like stadiums or protests
3 Netherlands
The Netherlands reintroduced internal checks at key transport hubs to manage an increased flow of irregular migrants.
Reason: High migration influx
Status: Active from December 9, 2024, to June 8, 2025
Focus Points: Airports, ferry terminals, and international rail hubs
Traveller Tips: Even within Schengen, have documents ready for inspections when arriving by train or ferry
4 Austria
Austria continues strict border surveillance in response to ongoing pressure from migration routes through the Western Balkans.
Reason: Migration control along the Balkan route
Status: Border checks extended into 2025
Main Focus: Borders with Hungary, Slovenia, and Slovakia
Traveller Tips: Be prepared for road checks and possible delays near border highways
5 Italy
Italy has tightened internal controls, citing migrant arrivals and national security as driving factors behind the move.
Reason: Security risks tied to irregular migration
Status: Introduced late 2024; continues into 2025
Targeted Areas: Border crossings with France, Austria, and Slovenia
Traveller Tips: Bring ID when travelling between Italy and neighbouring Schengen states; rail travellers may face spot checks
READ: Tourism: Rising Schengen Visa Rejection Rates Pose Challenges for African Travelers
6 Slovenia
Slovenia’s response to regional instability includes stepped-up internal border checks, particularly along southern and eastern frontiers.
Reason: Regional instability and migration
Status: Active since December 2024
Affected Borders: Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Austria
Traveller Tips: Driving across borders? Carry a passport or ID and expect occasional document checks
7 Denmark
Denmark has extended Schengen checks in response to irregular migration, especially at ferry terminals and road crossings.
Reason: National security and migration
Status: Controls active into late 2025
Key Focus: Øresund Bridge (to Sweden), ferries from Germany and Sweden
Traveller Tips: Short train rides from Germany or Sweden may involve ID checks
8 Sweden
Sweden continues its internal border checks to tackle migration-related concerns and maintain national security.
Reason: Migration pressures and transnational crime
Status: Active throughout 2025
Key Areas: Ports in the south, airports, and land borders with Denmark and Norway
Traveller Tips: Carry your ID on all cross-border trips, including public transport routes
9 Norway
As a non-EU Schengen member, Norway enforces internal checks for regional security alignment and migration control.
Reason: Irregular migration and coordinated Nordic response
Status: Border checks extended through 2025
Monitoring Areas: Ferry terminals, southern land routes, airports
Traveller Tips: Travellers from Sweden and Denmark should expect ID checks on arrival
10 Bulgaria
After partial entry into the Schengen Zone in January 2025, Bulgaria began using selective border controls during its transition phase.
Reason: Controlled Schengen integration and national security
Status: Partial Schengen participation with selective internal controls
Primary Areas: Air and sea borders; land checks at discretion
Traveller Tips: Check entry requirements if flying into or from Bulgaria within the Schengen zone
What This Means for Travellers in 2025
The return of internal border checks doesn’t mean the end of the Schengen dream, but it does mean being prepared is essential.
Travel Checklist for Schengen in 2025
- Always carry your passport or EU ID
- Print your accommodation and return flight details
- Plan for 30–60 extra minutes at road, rail, and flight checkpoints
- Avoid tight schedules with multiple border crossings
- Check if your destination is hosting large events or protests
